Hormel to Cease Use of Sow Gestation Crates by 2017

February 8, 2012 — 

Hormel Foods will end the use of sow gestation crates by 2017, the company’s chief executive told attendees at its annual meeting, according to a report by the Austin (Minn.) Daily Herald.

Jeff Ettinger said Hormel currently uses gestation creates at three farms in three states — Arizona, Colorado and Wyoming. Those in Arizona will be phased out by 2013 and in Colorado and Wyoming by 2017, he is quoted as saying in response to a question posed by a member of the Humane Society of the United States.

“We’re comfortable with our position and having that consistent approach going forward,” Ettinger is quoted as saying. Gestation crates have been banned in seven states.

Source: MeatingPlace.com, February 2, 2012
By Tom Johnston