Investigation: pigs struggle, scream during illegal slaughter
- Between 2023 and 2024, Animal Equality documented conditions at a pig slaughterhouse in Cremona, Italy.
- Footage reveals conscious pigs screaming, struggling to stand, and experiencing prolonged suffering during slaughter.
- Italian veterinarian Dr. Enrico Moriconi reviewed the footage, citing severe animal cruelty violations.
- The investigation aired on TGR Lombardia and was covered by major Italian news outlets.
- Supported by a criminal lawyer, Animal Equality filed a complaint against the slaughterhouse for unlawful handling and slaughter practices.
- This investigation reflects a global issue, with similar animal cruelty reported in the U.S. meat industry.
Between 2023 and 2024, Animal Equality investigators documented conditions inside a pig slaughterhouse in Cremona, Italy. This facility–owned by a company called Belli–slaughters thousands of pigs each year.
Investigators captured footage of widespread violence against animals, much of it in violation of Italian animal protection laws. Veterinarian Enrico Moriconi, who reviewed the footage, described the actions as serious breaches of animal welfare standards.
The investigation aired during prime time on Italy’s popular news program, TGR Lombardia. Other major news outlets–including Il Giornale, Telecolor, La Gazzetta di Mantova, and Affari Italiani–also featured the story.
Investigation documents severe violations
Animal Equality’s investigation uncovered rampant cruelty in the slaughterhouse, including:
- Pigs crammed into a stunning cage meant for just one animal.
- Workers hitting pigs who didn’t move quickly enough and slamming them against the metal cage door.
- Pigs still conscious after stunning and throat-slitting, with many seen breathing, blinking, and crying out as they moved down the conveyor belt.
- A worker holding down a screaming pig, who had attempted to stand after their throat was slit twice.
- A piglet, throat cut, struggling to stand as blood poured out.
- Animals waiting hours or days to be slaughtered, forced to witness other deaths.
Veterinarian’s verdict on animal suffering
Veterinarian Dr. Enrico Moriconi reviewed the footage, concluding that workers’ actions caused clear, avoidable suffering. He noted that workers ignored visible signs of distress, continuing their tasks despite the animals’ pain.
Animal Equality files complaint over slaughter practices
According to Italian animal protection laws, causing unnecessary pain, distress, or suffering warrants criminal charges. Animal Equality–supported by a criminal lawyer–has filed a complaint against the Belli company.
Footage from Cremona reflects a broader issue: global investigations reveal that animal protection laws are routinely ignored in slaughterhouses, with animals often seen as commodities.
A global problem: Cruelty beyond borders
The investigation in Italy highlights a worldwide issue, seen in countries from Europe to North America.
In the U.S., Animal Equality is challenging the continued use of “gestation crates” for pregnant pigs in Aldi’s supply chain. While these restrictive crates are banned in Germany, mother pigs in its U.S. supply chain are still confined for their entire pregnancies. Unable to turn around or take more than a step forward, they often exhibit repetitive, stress-induced behaviors.
Animal Equality is calling on Aldi and other global companies to apply the same standards everywhere they operate. Through investigations, legal action, and awareness campaigns, Animal Equality aims to end these practices and ensure that animals are not subjected to suffering simply because of their location.
Give the gift of compassion
This season is about giving the gift of compassion—multiplied! For a limited time, a generous supporter will match your donation to Animal Equality, multiplying your impact on ending animal cruelty. Together, we can create a kinder world for animals.
Small choices, big impact: Take action today
While advocates fight for stronger protections, you can help by choosing plant-based foods. Every meal you enjoy helps reduce demand for industries that harm animals, offering a powerful way to reduce suffering.
Love Veg makes the shift easy with delicious recipes, practical tips, and a free starter cookbook. Discover how rewarding it is to align your values with your food choices by choosing plant-based today.
SAVE ANIMALS FROM ABUSE
Pigs, cows, and other animals feel pain and deserve to be protected from abuse.
You can protect these intelligent animals by simply choosing plant‑based alternatives.
