Cruel stunning methods could remain permitted in Sweden – political action is needed
The Swedish Board of Agriculture has published its proposal for new legislation on the slaughter and killing of animals. Project 1882 is strongly critical of the failure to ban cruel stunning methods including the gassing of pigs with carbon dioxide and believes that political decisions are required on this issue.
The Swedish Animal Welfare Act states that animals shall be “spared unnecessary suffering and discomfort” during slaughter. It is up to the Government and the Swedish Board of Agriculture to clarify what this means in more detailed legislation.
For several years, the Swedish Board of Agriculture has been working to update the so-called slaughter regulations, including consultation with Project 1882. The draft legislation has now been published, but no concrete proposals for a ban on cruel stunning methods have been put forward. Project 1882 is highly critical.
“It is a betrayal of animals that pigs are still gassed with carbon dioxide. Anyone who understands what happens to these animals knows that this method cannot be called humane.”
− Benny Andersson, CEO of Project 1882
The Board of Agriculture is biased to the industry
The Board of Agriculture is Sweden’s expert authority on animal welfare, but it is obligated to also consider potential economic interests within the agricultural sector when making decisions. Project 1882 believes that a Minister for Animal Welfare and a dedicated animal welfare authority are needed to ensure that the interests of animals are given greater weight.
"The Swedish Board of Agriculture’s position shows that animal welfare is being sacrificed for economic interests. When the authorities fail to stand up to industry, animals pay the price. Sweden’s next government needs a Minister for Animal Welfare with a clear mandate to end cruel slaughter methods."
− Benny Andersson
There is extensive evidence that legislation for aquatic animals such as crustaceans and fish is needed, but this is not included in the published proposal, even though certain general provisions on avoiding suffering have been included. This is despite the fact that the industry is calling for clear legislation.
Project 1882 will respond to the consultation in the hope that the draft regulations will be improved. This is to protect animals from suffering during the final moments of their lives.
Project 1882 demands
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An end date for cruel stunning methods such as carbon dioxide gassing of pigs and fish, and electric water bath stunning of birds.
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The appointment of a Minister for Animal Welfare and the establishment of an animal welfare authority in Sweden.
