In a statement, NPPC CEO Neil Dierks said that while his group "respects the right of all producers to make market decisions they believe are in their best interest," the council considers gestation crates to be appropriate and humane.


Recognition
"The American Veterinary Medical Association and other organisations recognise gestation stalls and group housing systems as appropriate for providing for the well-being of sows during pregnancy," he said.


"We support the right of all producers to choose housing that ensures the well-being of their animals and that is appropriate for their operations."


Applauding
Animal activist groups across the USA have been applauding for Smithfield’s decision. The Humane Society of the United States called the decision "perhaps the most monumental advance for animal welfare in the history of American agribusiness."


Wayne Pacelle, HSUS president said, "This decision changes the dynamic of the industry. It's going to be very hard for other companies to not follow Smithfield."


California
The move comes just after animal-rights activists sued one of California's largest pig farmers for using gestation crates. In the states of Arizona and Florida, gestation crates have already been banned.


Gestation crates have to be disappeared in the European Union by January 1st, 2013.


Related news items:
• Smithfield ends use of gestation crates (26 Jan 2007)
• Activists now target California pig producers (23 Jan 2007)
• Arizona says ‘no’ to gestation crates (09 Nov 2006)


Related websites:
• Smithfield Foods
• National Pork Producers Council
• Human Society of the United States
• European Union


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