November 7, 2008

US state California has banned the use of gestation crates after residents voted 63.2 percent to 36.8 percent in favour of Proposition 2.

Proposition 2 requires sows, laying hens and veal calves be kept in enclosures large enough to allow the animals to turn around and fully extend their limbs. Producers have until January 1, 2015, to change their housing systems.

National Pork Producers Council president Bryan Black expressed his disappointment at the result and expects similar initiative will spread to other states.

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Swine Veterinarians recognise gestation stalls and group housing systems as appropriate for providing for the well being of sows during pregnancy. However, animal rights groups felt that the lack of mobility allowance is cruel and tormenting to the animals.