June 27, 2025
The analysis shows that even in the higher levels 3 and 4, key animal welfare issues persist.
The analysis shows that even in the higher levels 3 and 4, key animal welfare issues persist.
Our statement “Why the ‘Haltungsform’ labelling system fails to do justice to pigs” analyses current scientific findings on the effects of this labelling system on pigs.
Expertise for Animals prepared the statement on behalf of Animal Rights Watch e.V. (ARIWA). ARIWA advocates for the abolition of all forms of exploitation and oppression of non-human animals.
We thank ARIWA for allowing us to make the statement freely and easily accessible to everyone on our website.
The “Haltungsform” label is a privately run labelling scheme consisting of five levels. This voluntary system is intended to indicate supposedly higher standards in pig farming.
This statement examines whether these levels actually change the living conditions for pigs. It focuses in particular on the animals’ behaviour and health.
The minimal improvements associated with levels 3 and 4 are insufficient to meet the complex needs and intelligence of pigs; their cognitive abilities and sentience are largely disregarded.
Despite formal improvements, the health status of pigs remains inadequate: lack of space, slatted floors, and insufficient enrichment continue to promote respiratory diseases, skin problems, and lameness.
Another shortcoming of the labelling system is that it considers only a few aspects, even though numerous factors are crucial to pig welfare. Important elements such as group size, group structure, human-animal interactions, genetics, floor design, and the care of sick animals are not included in the current system.
The statement shows that significant animal welfare deficits persist even in the higher levels of the labelling system (levels 3 and 4).
Due to only minor changes, pigs remain exposed to considerable physical and psychological stress.
Together with ARIWA, we use this statement to draw attention to these problems and to provide a solid foundation for discussion and change.
Download the full statement free of charge at the bottom of the page. Please note: The statement is currently available in German only, but an English translation is in progress
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