RSPCA Assured position statement on CO2 in pig slaughter

An RSPCA Assured spokesperson says: “Both the RSPCA and RSPCA Assured care passionately about improving farmed animal welfare at every stage of their lives and creating a kinder, more compassionate future for them.

“Whilst the slaughter of farmed animals for food is a reality of our global farming system, it is nonetheless extremely difficult to think about. It’s critical that this process is as humane as possible, and we share the concerns about using high concentrations of CO2 gas to kill pigs.

“Animal welfare is not only a priority for us, it’s also a matter of deep public concern. We therefore welcome the Animal Welfare Committee's recommendation to ban the use of CO2 gas to slaughter pigs in favour of more humane alternatives - something the RSPCA has been instrumental in calling for since 2018.

“We urge the government to implement a practical phase-out that improves pig welfare, while giving the farming community a clear roadmap to make the transition successfully.

“Whilst CO2 gassing is currently the primary commercially viable option for pig slaughter, the RSPCA’s welfare standards include strict requirements to help improve the welfare of the animals at this time.”