The Animal Welfare Committee has considered evidence and raised concerns about high concentration CO₂ use in the slaughter of pigs, alongside potential alternatives. It has noted that methods such as inert gases and improved electrical stunning may offer higher welfare outcomes, although there are practical challenges to wider use, including cost, processing requirements, and the need for further development.
In its Animal Welfare Strategy published in December 2025, the Government confirmed its intention to consult on the future use of carbon dioxide in pig slaughter, with a view to moving towards higher welfare alternatives where this can be achieved in practice.
I support progress in this area, but any change must be workable for farmers and processors and based on clear evidence, so that higher welfare outcomes are delivered in a practical and sustainable way
I will continue to follow this closely.