Animal Well-being

Safe food begins with healthy animals and quality care. Animal well-being is our ethical responsibility and it’s a top focus every day on the farm.

How Pig Farmers Support Animal Well-Being With Safe Sow Housing

Run time: 2:34

As pig farmers continue to raise safe and nutritious pork, they ensure their animals are comfortable and well cared for by selecting the appropriate housing for their sows, or mother pigs. Pig farmers are committed to animal well-being, and they strive to provide the best possible care for their pigs. A big part of this effort lies in providing a safe environment, that leads to the highest standard of well-being.

We are committed to:

  • Providing feed, water and an environment that promotes well-being.
  • Providing proper care, handling and transportation at each stage of life.
  • Protecting pig health and providing appropriate treatment, including veterinary care, when needed.
  • Using approved practices to euthanize, in a timely manner, sick or injured pigs that fail to respond to care and treatment.

How We Ensure Animal Well-Being

We use a variety of practices, including veterinarian and nutritionist attention, to maintain animal health
at each stage of life.

View All Principles

Meet Brandi Guerrero and Orlando Lopez

For farmer Brandi Guerrero, healthy pigs are her top priority and the reason she loves her job of 17 years at Smithfield Foods.

Orlando Lopez of Smithfield Foods in Utah starts every day by checking every pig to ensure they are healthy and caring for those who may seem unwell.

male pig farmer from utah standing next to a post