Dear Supporter, 

When it comes to the welfare of mother pigs, we’re increasingly optimistic that Costco is on track to have the best gestation crate policy of any mainstream grocer. 

Last month Costco updated its animal welfare policy, reporting that 95.5% of its fresh pork will come from pigs raised in group housing. While that’s good news, the reality is that Costco’s current primary pork supplier still confines mother pigs in crates during the time it takes to confirm their pregnancies (this can be as long as 6 weeks!)

However, Costco also tells us that “our goal over time is to minimize the time in confinement.” To that end, Costco is starting to buy from more forward-thinking pork producers who have reduced total confinement time to less than nine days. While clearly there is work to be done, progress is being made.   

We encourage Costco to build up its relationships with more humane suppliers, be transparent about its progress, and share specific goals according to a public timeline. While pasture-raised is always the best alternative, this interim step can help reduce stress and suffering for mother pigs.

You can help by contacting Costco. Thank them for listening and encourage them to keep moving forward.    

Costco members: 

• Call 1-800-774-2678  - Option #4.  Have your membership number handy. Once connected to a representative, introduce yourself. Use the script below as a guide or have your own polite conversation.​​​​​​
• Chat online. Hit the “chat us” button on the lower right of the page. 

Costco and Non-Costco members:  

• Go to Costco.com.  Just click the “Feedback” tab on the right side of the screen or scroll to the bottom of the page and click “Feedback"
• Comment on Costco’s Facebook page

Sample script:  "I read your recent animal welfare policy update, and want to thank Costco for its efforts to reduce the time pregnant pigs are confined in gestation crates. Right now Costco says its goal is to continue reducing the time mother pigs are confined in gestation crates throughout its pregnancy cycle.  We encourage Costco to keep working with more forward thinking pork producers who can help Costco achieve its goals and to be transparent about its progress."

Thank you for your support ... we are making progress!

Crate Free USA