Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

In Sweden, there is a need to import pork to meet the domestic demand for pig meat. Axfood, one of the country's largest actors in the grocery retail sector, has therefore requested an updated literature review to examine which requirements can and should be set when importing pork from the exporting countries Denmark, Germany, Spain, and Italy. The purpose of this study was to compare animal welfare in these countries, with Swedish pig production. The comparison covers each country’s animal welfare legislation, compliance with the law, animal welfare certifications, and antibiotic use. Sweden currently has strong animal welfare regulations with higher standards than the other countries in the comparison. For example, tail docking is prohibited in Sweden, while it is performed routinely in several of the other countries. Sweden also has stricter rules regarding sow confinement, which in some exporting countries is allowed for up to almost half of a sow’s adult life. The results show that none of the compared countries, reach the same level of animal welfare in pig production as Sweden. In cases where pork import is necessary, Denmark should be prioritized, followed by Germany and Spain, while Italy should be considered a last choice. This study also presents recommendations that may contribute to improved purchasing decisions with positive effects on pig welfare. Finally, the study identifies the need for a thorough review of suppliers’ animal welfare certifications to determine which requirements are possible and relevant for Axfood to set when importing.