# Pig slaughtering CO2 stunning controversy

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/pig-slaughtering-co2-stunning-controversy
> Updated: 2026-10-28T23:04:52.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

Debate has intensified regarding the use of carbon dioxide (CO2) for stunning pigs in abattoirs. In the United Kingdom, the government has launched a consultation to phase out CO2 stunning in favor of more humane alternatives like argon gas or automated electrical stunning. This proposal follows recommendations from the Animal Welfare Committee, which labeled the current practice “ethically unacceptable” due to the respiratory distress and fear it causes animals.

Simultaneously, in France, the animal rights organization L214 has released footage from the Cooperl slaughterhouse in Brittany to denounce CO2 gasification methods. The organization claims the process causes intense panic and is calling for a government ban and for retailers to cease sourcing from such facilities. Cooperl has defended its practices, stating the footage was filmed illegally and characterizing the campaign as a “militant strategy.”

## Timeline

### 2026-10-28: Cooperl slaughterhouse faces criticism over CO2 pig stunning methods

Animal rights group L214 is campaigning to ban CO2 stunning of pigs at the Cooperl slaughterhouse in France, following footage showing animal distress during the process.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cooperl-slaughterhouse-faces-criticism-over-co2-pig-stunning-methods

### 2026-10-26: UK government proposes ban on CO2 stunning for pigs in abattoirs

The UK government is consulting on plans to replace CO2 stunning for pigs with more humane methods like argon gas or electrical stunning to improve animal welfare and supply chain security.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uk-government-proposes-ban-on-co2-stunning-for-pigs-in-abattoirs

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Cite as: Pig slaughtering CO2 stunning controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/pig-slaughtering-co2-stunning-controversy