Freedom Food is the RSPCA's farm assurance and food labelling scheme, set up by the RSPCA in 1994. The aim of the scheme is simple - to improve the lives of as many farm animals as possible.

It works towards this by implementing the RSPCA species specific welfare standards on farms, hauliers and abattoirs across the country. These practical standards apply to both indoor and outdoor systems, as long as they meet the requirements.

RSPCA welfare standards
The RSPCA's strict but achievable set of farm animal welfare standards have been devised by the society's experienced animal welfare specialists in consultation with veterinary experts and the industry. They are updated as new research and information is gathered to develop better ways to rear animals. The standards are based on concept of the five freedom's:

Freedom from fear and distress
By providing conditions and care that avoid unnecessary fear and distress. Everyone that plays a part in managing and handling livestock must understand basic animal behaviour and Freedom Food members are required to avoid mixing animals of different ages, sexes and social groups, which can be very stressful to the animals and may result in injury through fighting.

Freedom from hunger and thirst
By providing a satisfying, appropriate and safe diet as well as consistant access to adequate fresh water. Allowing generous feeding and drinking spaces helps minimise bullying and competition.

Freedom from discomfort
By providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area. A clean dry bedded area for mammalian species, and plenty of space to move around must be provided.

Freedom from pain injury and disease
By prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment using good veterinary care when required. The environment must be well maintained to provide good health.

Freedom to express normal behaviour
By providing enough space, appropriate environmental enrichment and company of the animals own kind.

How the scheme works
Before a farm, haulier or abattoir can join the scheme, a Freedom Food approved assessor must carry out a detailed audit on the farm. Once in the scheme, members are then subject to reassessments. In addition, the RSPCA's Farm Livestock Officers also carry out random spot checks on at least 30% of members annually to help ensure that the standards are adhered to.

Further information:

Please visit the Freedom Food website.

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