Animal welfare

It encompasses all those conditions that are considered important in order to guarantee the absence of suffering in the farm animals: the way the facilities have to be designed, the environment, the handling, the feeding…

'Five freedoms': These freedoms define ideal states rather than standards for acceptable welfare (FAWC, Farm Animal Welfare Council).

1. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst - by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour.
2. Freedom from Discomfort - by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
3. Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease - by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
4. Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour - by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind.
5. Freedom from Fear and Distress - by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.