Florian Possberg, pork producer and Chair of the Code Development Committee, said: "The new Code of Practice is a significant step forward for the Canadian industry. It is a step that recognises the healthy and rigorous debate of a diverse group of stakeholders to constructively address pig welfare in Canada.”

Highlights of the revised Code include a full commitment to adopt loose housing for sows and gilts in all new facilities built after 1 July 2014, new pain control requirements and enhanced environmental enrichment.

The Code of Practice is a product of the National Farm Animal Care Council and the Code Development Committee, a 17-person committee comprising representatives from the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, pig producers, scientists, transporters, processors, veterinarians and government.

The Code is available online at www.nfacc.ca/codes-of-practice/pigs.

Jean-Guy Vincent, Chair of the Canadian Pork Council (CPC), commented: “The Canadian Pork Council and its members are proud of the new Pig Code and the credibility the entire process lends to its creation.

“The new Code is a source of tremendous pride. It represents our commitment to the animals in our care, the sustainability of our industry, our ability to work collaboratively with a diverse stakeholder group and the leadership we provide to a global industry.”

Financial support for the Code has been provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

The CPC serves as the national voice for hog producers in Canada. A federation of nine provincial pork industry associations, our organization’s purpose is to play a leadership role in achieving and maintaining a dynamic and prosperous Canadian pork sector.