The National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC) has officially launched the process to update Canada’s Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Pigs, with a strong emphasis on public and producer input guiding the revisions.
Jackie Wepruk, Division Director at NFACC, underscored the importance of collaboration from all corners of the pork sector—including producers, industry stakeholders, and the general public. A top-of-mind survey, which closed on June 4, marked the first step in gathering initial feedback and will inform the early discussions of the Pig Code Committee when they meet later this fall.
“We want to hear from a variety of voices at each stage,” said Wepruk. “It’s especially important to hear from producers who will be expected to implement the code.”
The update process, typically spanning 18 to 24 months, includes a formal 60-day public comment period once the draft code is ready—expected in late 2026 or early 2027. This phase will also include the release of the Scientific Committee’s report, encouraging feedback on the full draft code to ensure it meets both welfare standards and practical application on the farm.