Dr Tracey Jones, Compassion’s Director of Food Business, said: “It was a touching moment to watch our award winners proudly stand and collect their certificates from our CEO and Ms Xi. Their faces said it all – this was a momentous occasion – and their peers were delighted for them. At dinner last night, Ms Xi explained just how momentous the event had been. This was the very first time Chinese pig producers had ever been recognised and valued for their achievements.”

“It has been a pleasure working with ICCAW on developing and implementing the Good Pig Production Award for Chinese producers, and for hosting the producer study tour. The participants are so keen to learn and implement steps to improve animal welfare.

We estimate more than 750,000 pigs are set to benefit from our producers commitments and practices …. That’s definitely something to celebrate!”

Good Pig Production Awards will also be presented to the remaining winners at the ‘2014 China Animal Welfare Forum’ in Beijing on 11th October.

Click here to find out more about the Good Pig Production Award winners

The Good Pig Production Award recognises Chinese producers that are making significant commitments to improving the welfare of pigs by meeting five basic requirements which focus on: group housing of sows in the gestation period, providing pigs with a suitable environment (including temperature control and hygiene), as well as meeting several stipulated food safety requirements.

The awards can be based on a current policy or a 5-year commitment to achieve the relevant criteria. The awards are scored from 1 star (basic requirements listed above met) to 5 stars, depending on the number of the following additional welfare criteria that are met: no tail docking, no teeth clipping, no confinement of sows throughout life (including farrowing crates), and the provision of maniuplable material and bedding throughout life.

Click here for a full list of welfare criteria for the Good Pig Production Award

First Compassion awards for Chinese pig producers