I actually thought Proposition 12 can be historical past by now. Guess not.
Prop 12, handed by California voters, requires particular housing house necessities for sows (and different livestock). If farms don’t meet these necessities, pork can’t be bought in California. To say this has created chaos within the pork business is an understatement.
The price of compliance is gigantic. Farmers shoulder all constructing bills, with solely a small premium potential if barns meet Prop 12 requirements—far wanting masking the complete price.
Why Not Ignore California?
California represents about 13% of the U.S. pork market. We will’t simply ignore them, although many people may wish to.
On the Minnesota Pork Congress, knowledge from the Pipestone System revealed some troubling tendencies underneath Prop 12 housing necessities in comparison with conventional stalls and open pens:
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Lameness: Sows in Prop 12 environments skilled considerably increased charges of lameness (10.2%) in comparison with stalls (3.5%), typically on account of combating and accidents as they set up social hierarchies.
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Injections: Medical remedies, prescribed by veterinarians, had been notably increased underneath Prop 12 housing requirements.
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Dying Loss: Sow mortality was increased in Prop 12 methods, elevating questions on the actual animal welfare impression.
Animal Welfare—or Politics?
Supporters name this about animal welfare. The numbers recommend in any other case. Sure, enhancements may be made—higher gating, dry flooring, genetic choice—however all at vital price to farmers.
It’s irritating when individuals who know little about elevating pigs dictate how we must always elevate them, leaving farmers to take care of the results.
