Free range

There is a natural assumption that free range farming gives animals a happy life. However, there are some important things you should know before choosing this option.

What's wrong with free range?

Any kind of animal farming is not done in the interest of the animals themselves and causes suffering for them - their welfare and treatment is compromised, they are destined for slaughter, and they are bred solely for profit.

In any kind of farming system the average age of a piglet ready for slaughter is a mere 16 weeks of age. Husbandry practices that are used can be stressful or painful.

Before they are very old, every farmed pig must endure the journey to the slaughterhouse and be killed in a way that is often brutal and painful.

If allowed to live out their natural life pigs can live fifteen years or more. Pigs are sensitive, intelligent and inquisitive animals, and possess the instinct to protect their family.

This is why many New Zealanders have chosen to completely avoid eating ham or bacon and to become totally meat-free.

As an animal advocacy organisation dedicated to helping to save animals from cruelty SAFE promotes a positive lifestyle that does not use animals for food, clothing or entertainment. SAFE believes the best way to help animals is simply not to eat them.