Oscar Mayer Eliminates Gestation Crates

Joining 15 other fast food restaurants, grocery stores, and pork suppliers, Oscar Mayer, a division of Kraft Foods, has announced that it will begin eliminating the use of gestation crates. Gestation crates are used to house pregnant sows in cramped quarters for the duration of their pregnancy, prohibiting them from standing or turning around. Though the planned phase out is set for 2022, animal-protection organization Humane Society of the United States sees the announcement as a positive step forward. HSUS Vice President of Farm Animal Protection Paul Shapiro comments, “Oscar Mayer’s plan for eliminating gestation crates from its supply chain sends a strong message to pork industry leaders who are resisting change.” Kraft Foods is the US’ second-largest food company.