Waitrose has introduced higher welfare standards for its own-brand continental meat.
The supermarket collaborated with European producers to partner with farmers that “lead the industry standard for continental charcuterie”.
Waitrose introduced the new standards across its Italian producers two years ago and, since then, has been working to expand them across all of its European producers.
The new standards include ensuring that its continental pork is 100% free-farrowing and free from mutilations such as teeth clipping and tail docking. It also sources its pork from farms that have more space than required by the Red Tractor standards.
This follows the supermarket’s implementation of the Better Chicken Commitment across all its own-brand chicken.
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“It’s been a real cultural shift for some of our suppliers on the continent as many of their domestic customers don’t prioritise higher welfare,” said Elle Vercoe-Gibson, ethics & sustainability agriculture manager, Waitrose.
“But at Waitrose, we are dedicated to raising animal welfare standards and by doing this, not only do the pigs benefit but also the farmers know that animal care goes hand in hand with quality and taste. Welfare will always be our number one priority.”
Louise Valducci, head of food business (Europe), Compassion in World Farming added: “We congratulate Waitrose for its ongoing commitment to working with suppliers across Europe to raise welfare standards for continental pigs. By providing pigs with more space, meaningful enrichment, and freedom from crates for sows, they are setting a high benchmark for responsible farming that others can follow.
“This year marks a defining moment for producers embracing free farrowing systems. Choosing to invest in this transition is not only a responsible step forward but also a strong demonstration of leadership in animal welfare. It paves the way for the phase out of farrowing crates, providing a powerful example to other food companies and legislators that a cage-free future is possible.”
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