Red Tractor is updating its guidance to help clarify current uncertainty around permitted methods of euthanasia on commercial pig farms.
The guidance confirms that commercial pig farms must only use permitted methods of euthanasia, and clarifies that any blunt force trauma, including if used for piglets, must be in the form mechanical blunt force trauma – using a specifically designed device.
As such producers should have the necessary equipment, such as a Cash Small Animal Tool, available on farm with staff trained to use it, including for piglets under 5 kg. Mechanical devices, where used for piglet euthanasia, must deliver a minimum of 27.7 joules (j) energy (as described in the manufacturer’s specification).
Red Tractor reviewed existing legislation and interpretations to produce the new guidance following recent high-profile cases where individuals on Red Tractor assured units have euthanised pigs, using methods that are not permitted, including non-mechanical blunt force trauma. The assurance scheme said these examples pose a ‘serious risk to the industry’s reputation and to the individual member’.
Unanimous agreement
The new guidance was unanimously agreed by the Red Tractor Pigs Sector Board, including representatives from producers, the NPA, UFU, and PVS. It is intended to support compliance with legislation and remove ambiguity while also upholding the reputation of the industry.
Stewart Houston, Chair of the Pig Sector Board, said: “The Red Tractor Standards provide producers with reassurance that their procedures are in line with expectations and in keeping with high standards of animal welfare. After reviewing recent interpretations of the complex legislation surrounding euthanasia, the Board acted unanimously and decisively to ensure this was reflected in the Red Tractor Pigs Standard.”
Lizzie Wilson, Chief Executive of the National Pig Association, said: “Scrutiny of animal welfare practices within the pigs sector is increasing. As a result, many producers have already moved away from using non-mechanical blunt force trauma. NPA welcomes the addition of clear guidance to the Red Tractor Pig Standard, helping all assured pig producers to adopt practices that comply with the law.”
Duncan Berkshire, from the Pig Veterinary Society, said: “The legislation surrounding euthanasia of pigs on commercial pig farms is complex and our understanding has evolved considerably over the last three years creating confusion across the sector. This guidance provides much needed clarity for producers, vets and other stakeholders.”
The Red Tractor Pigs Sector Board will continue to work with NPA, PVS, UFU and other stakeholders to continue to review industry developments and our standards in the light of new developments.
What has changed?
The new guidance supports the existing standard, AH.9.1.b clarifying ‘permitted methods’ of euthanasia. It also requires that any use of a non-permitted method of euthanasia in an exceptional emergency must be recorded with accompanying written justification.
- New guidance on euthanasia has been added to the Pigs Standards – it provides clarity on permitted methods of euthanasia and reflects current interpretations of legislation.
- The standards have not changed – The Red Tractor Pigs Standard has always required producers to use legally permitted methods of euthanasia.
Find out more
Red Tractor has published a Technical Briefing providing details of the new guidance and answers to frequently asked questions.