Britain has begun seeking public and industry input on phasing out high-concentration carbon dioxide for pig stunning, a change intended to reduce distress while giving pork businesses time to adjust.
High-concentration carbon dioxide remains common at British pig slaughterhouses, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs said. The department pointed to independent evidence that pigs may become agitated and struggle to breathe before they lose consciousness. It said argon gas and automated electrical stunning are possible replacements and would improve welfare.
Feedback is being sought on expected welfare improvements, the expense and practical demands of switching, and a workable timetable. Officials say slaughter businesses will need time to adjust, while the government wants to avoid adding pressure to household meat costs. Since April 2024, it has discussed implementation with pork processors, equipment manufacturers, gas suppliers and animal welfare organizations.
Farming Minister Stephen Morgan said the plan responds to public expectations that meat sold in shops should meet high animal welfare standards. Morgan also described pigs as intelligent animals that warrant care throughout life, including at slaughter. He said the government would support farmers and businesses through the change and expects lasting benefits from it.
Madeline Campbell, chair of the Animal Welfare Committee, said using concentrated carbon dioxide remains “ethically unacceptable” where legal alternatives exist. She urged industry participants to resolve practical barriers and avoid stretching out the transition.
The proposal also has a supply-chain rationale. The department said replacing the gas would make the pork sector less exposed to interruptions in carbon dioxide supply. Concerns about potential shortages during conflict in the Middle East earlier in 2026 highlighted that risk, the government said.
The consultation is part of the government’s animal welfare strategy, which sets an ambition to improve treatment of farmed animals throughout their lives and at slaughter. It opened Oct. 26 and closes Dec. 21, 2026.
