Smithfield's Broken Gestation Crate Promise

by Taylor Leake · 2011-06-24 13:50:00 UTC
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Back in 2007, Smithfield, the world's largest pork producer,  said it would phase out the use of gestation crates by 2017. Now the company has gone back on that promise even though it recently boasted record profits. Looks like the behemoth pork producer has no excuse for breaking its promise.

So what are gestation crates, and why should Smithfield ban them? Most factory farms confine pregnant female pigs in a small stall measuring about seven feet by two feet. Because pigs on factory farms like those owned by Smithfield are nearly always pregnant, they spend a huge majority of their lives crammed into these teensy stalls. Larger pigs can’t even turn around and are limited to two positions — standing or lying on their stomachs. Many of these highly intelligent and inquisitive pigs develop pressure sores and infections, as well as other crate-related injuries. Out of sheer boredom, they engage in repetitive behaviors such as bar biting and head swaying, and keeping so many pigs crammed into tight quarters is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Gestation crates are already banned in the U.K., Sweden, several U.S. states, and they're currently being phased out in the European Union and Denmark. Even though it promised to do so four years ago, Smithfield has yet to join this pig protection club.

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is pretty disgusted that Smithfield has gone back on its commitment to end  the use of gestation crates. The organization recently conducted an undercover investigation of a Smithfield factory farm in Wavely, VA and saw firsthand how destructive and cruel these small spaces can be for pigs HSUS is asking for your help in stopping Smithfield's use of gestation crates.

Please send C. Larry Pope, CEO of Smithfield, a message urging him to recommit to the company's original promise and stop the use of inhumane gestation crates on Smithfield's factory farms by 2017.

It’s time for the world’s largest pork producer to set the standard. As the largest player in the industry, Smithfield has a responsibility to be a leader. And with record profits, Smithfield has the means to do away with gestation crates. Now all the company needs is some consumer pressure to push it in the right direction.

Photo Credit: Farm Sanctuary via Flickr

Taylor Leake is a foodie and activist. He's previously worked for Food and Water Watch and Wake Up Walmart.

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