Foto: Prikken Design

Animal welfare

The achievement of high welfare standards is paramount throughout the whole production chain, on the farm, during transport and finally at the abattoir.

Our vision for animal welfare

The Danish Agriculture & Food Council closely follows developments in animal welfare and actively works to improve the welfare of farm animals in Denmark. Our goal is to ensure that animals experience high welfare throughout their lives, while Danish farmers and food companies contribute to global food security through sustainable and competitive food production.

The European Commission aims to present proposals for a new common animal welfare legislation by the end of 2026. The Danish Agriculture & Food Council welcomes this initiative, as we want to help raise animal welfare standards across the EU through a consistent legislative framework.

Animal welfare on farms

The Danish Agriculture & Food Council recognises that farm animals are raised for food production. Most animals are housed indoors, which, among other benefits, helps reduce the risk of infectious diseases.

The Danish Agriculture & Food Council and our members recognise and support the Five Freedoms as a fundamental framework for defining animals’ needs and welfare.

The Five Freedoms includes:

  1. Freedom from hunger and thirst

  2. Freedom from discomfort

  3. Freedom from pain, injury and disease

  4. Freedom from fear and distress

  5. Freedom to express normal behavior