It is likely that production in the vast majority of traditional sow stalls currently in use in Denmark will be ceased well in advance of the January 2013 ban.

It is estimated that around 75 per cent of Danish sows are now kept in group systems during pregnancy. In specialised production such as organic, free-range and the ‘Contract for UK Production’ sows are kept in groups throughout the entire period of pregnancy. However, in line with EU and Danish legislation, many Danish producers confine sows in the early weeks of pregnancy (up to four weeks), recognising a welfare benefit for young sows who may experience aggressive behaviour from other members of the group during this potentially stressful period.

Traditional farrowing pens, which prevent piglets from being crushed as the sow lies down, are still widely used in indoor pig production in all major pig producing countries. However, there is a major research and development project underway in Denmark to identify easily managed systems, which will allow sows to move freely without compromising the welfare of the piglets.