Non-compliance with European legislation on farm animal welfare in pig holdings and state of play regarding the ‘End the Cage Age’ initiative

Question for written answer E-001518/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
César Luena (S&D)

According to press reports, certain European pig holdings have serious shortcomings with regard to animal welfare (wounded or dying animals not being given appropriate care, cannibalism, lack of hygiene, inadequate carcass management, etc.), thereby jeopardising biosecurity and public health. Moreover, it has come to light that these large-scale farms as supplying products to distributors bearing an 'animal welfare' and sustainability seal.

This raises questions about the enforcement of EU rules, in particular Directive 98/58/EC (reasonable steps to ensure the welfare of farm animals) and Directive 2008/120/EC (minimum standards for the protection of pigs), as well as Article 13 TFEU and green labelling.

All this is happening while the European Citizens' Initiative 'End the Cage Age' (with more than 1.4 million signatories) is still awaiting announced legislative proposals.

In light of the above:

• 1.What measures does the Commission envisage to strengthen the uniform implementation of Directives 98/58/EC and 2008/120/EC in intensive pig holdings?
• 2.What is the state of play regarding the reform resulting from the End the Cage Age initiative?
• 3.Is it considering more stringent verification and audit requirements for animal welfare labels/claims to prevent greenwashing?

Submitted: 14.4.2026