THE welfare standards of animals reared for food is important to people in Wales in their decisions on what to buy, a report from RSPCA Cymru highlights.

The charity has shown indicators providing an insight into welfare issues surrounding such animals in Wales, with non-stun slaughter, live transport, and food labelling highlighted.

A poll from RSPCA Cymru found 80 per cent of Welsh adults consider welfare standards important in purchasing decisions. Of those polled, three-quarters recognised at least one of four labelling schemes in Wales aimed at providing higher welfare food, including the RSPCA’s Freedom Food scheme.

RSPCA Cymru head of external affairs Claire Lawson said: “Many people in Wales consciously seek to tailor their shopping habits with the aim of buying higher welfare products. Better labelling is vital to ensure people have the information to make an informed choice, and can purchase food that meets higher welfare standards.

“RSPCA Cymru believes ‘Method of Production’ labelling should be introduced for all meat and dairy products. This would place an emphasis on retailers to stock produce desired by their consumers.”

Its report calls for an end to non-stun slaughter. Some 2,300 people signed the charity’s petition in Wales, backed by the British Veterinary Association, urging an end to it. Current law in Wales requires animals to be stunned before slaughter, but exemptions exist for certain communities. RSPCA Cymru believes the Welsh Government should end the exemptions.