All things welfare
Real Welfare ...whats next?
AHDB Welfare training update
The use of goads/pig handling
Activists and support
In response to feedback from levy payers, AHDB ceased funding its Pig Health Scheme and Real Welfare programme. Consequently, since April Red Tractor standard AH.11, which mandates Real Welfare assessments for pig-rearing units with weights exceeding 50 kg, has been suspended.
AHDB developed the Real Welfare programme in response to the pig industry’s need for strong, science-based evidence to demonstrate its husbandry standards to retailers, animal welfare lobby groups, policymakers, and consumers. This requirement is as strong as ever, consumers are becoming increasingly interested in welfare - and retailers are aware of this.
Progress is essential to remain competitive. Measuring and monitoring welfare helps push the industry forward in terms of raising the bar of standards and keeping up with our competitors in other countries.
In recognising the importance of welfare outcome measures, the Red Tractor Pigs Board has acknowledged the need to explore alternative methods. Red Tractor is convening with representatives from across the entire supply chain to collaboratively determine whether and how we can establish and implement a meaningful welfare scheme for the future.
AHDB's Welfare Training modules have seen significant participation, with over 6,000 individuals having completed the pig handling training. Additionally, around 1,000 people are currently undergoing the training process. Although the initial adoption among farmers has reached a plateau, AHDB reports an increase in hauliers (as required by our standards) and some abattoir lairage staff completing the training.
It is widely acknowledged that the handling and loading/unloading of finished pigs can pose challenges due to their large size, unpredictable behaviour, and excitable behaviour. It is essential to remember that any handling activities conducted outdoors create a high-risk area for potential targeting by activists. Good lighting and accessible locations provide opportunities for covert filming, whether it be at the loading ramp or in the lairage.
It's important to remember that goads are not allowed on Red Tractor farms. If a haulier possesses one, they are only allowed to use it after receiving relevant training, understanding the appropriate animal type for its use, and obtaining written consent from you.
Considering their negative perception among consumers, it is advisable not to permit drivers to use goads on your farm.
However, if they are used, the Red Tractor Transport Standards (AH.4.2) provide clear guidelines on their usage: only as a last resort on sows and boars, strictly on the hindquarter muscle, and for no longer than 1 second. It's crucial to recognise that goads should not serve as an extension of the driver's arm.
