The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) announced on 26 October 2026 a plan to phase out stunning pigs with gas containing a high concentration of carbon dioxide in British abattoirs. The government believes this method causes animals panic and breathlessness before they lose consciousness.
Instead of CO2, the government points to two methods: stunning with argon and automated electrical stunning. According to Defra, they significantly reduce animal suffering. The change is also intended to reduce the industry’s dependence on CO2 supplies – the government recalls recent global problems with this gas.
The consultation runs from 26 October to 21 December 2026. The government is asking about timelines, costs, feasibility and animal welfare benefits. It has not yet given a date from which CO2 would be banned. Farming minister Stephen Morgan promised support for farmers and businesses during the transition period. Animal Welfare Committee chair Madeline Campbell is calling for the transition period to be as short as possible.
Since April 2024, the government has discussed the issue with pork processing plants, equipment manufacturers, gas suppliers and animal welfare organisations.
What it means for you
- Meat plants and abattoirs: replacing stunning lines is an investment. Now is the time to set out the real costs and the time needed in the consultation.
- Plant workers: new equipment means training and changes to how work is organised. Ask your employer about the implementation plan.
- Suppliers of equipment, technical gases and service engineers: this is an opportunity for new orders as plants modernise.
- Consumers: the government says it wants to limit the impact of the changes on shop prices.
Our assessment
The direction seems settled, but the pace is not. We believe the real date of the ban will only be known after the consultation, and the industry will fight for several years of transition. Firms that calculate their modernisation costs early will be in a better position in talks with banks and buyers.
What to do
- Read the independent opinion on stunning methods on which the government relies: GOV.UK – Opinion on carbon dioxide gas stunning of pigs.
- Run a plant or supply equipment? Take part in the consultation by 21 December – details in the Defra announcement.
Source: GOV.UK / Defra – New plans to end carbon dioxide stunning of pigs to prevent suffering (26.10.2026).
We assess factual corrections and substantive responses. Verified changes are reflected in our reporting.
Contact the editorial desk →
