https://www.greenqueen.com.hk/switzerland-meat-law-animal-cruelty-labels-foie-gras-fur/
Switzerland has implemented new labelling regulations that require businesses to disclose whether meat, dairy, and egg products are linked to animal suffering. Under the new law, which took effect on July 1, 2025, labels must indicate if animals were subjected to painful procedures without anesthesia or stunning, such as dehorning, castration, or beak clipping.
This move aims to provide consumers with clearer information, enabling them to make informed purchasing decisions while encouraging the livestock industry to adopt more ethical practices. Notably, foie gras, known for its association with force feeding, and fur produced through animal cruelty are also subject to these new labelling requirements.
The law is expected to boost cruelty free alternatives, particularly from food tech startups producing sustainable options.
In addition to these animal welfare focused labelling changes, Switzerland has also taken steps to address public health concerns, such as banning the sale of meat and dairy products with high levels of PFAS chemicals, linked to serious health issues. This initiative follows recent discoveries of excessive PFAS levels in Swiss farm products. The country’s broader focus on animal rights has resonated globally, influencing other nations to enhance animal welfare standards.
Despite progress, some critics argue that Switzerland’s policies still have gaps, particularly in addressing the use of cruel traps in fur production. Nevertheless, these reforms reflect a growing global commitment to transparency and ethical practices in the food industry.
*At Whiskers, Paws and Love® we believe that transparency and compassion are essential in fostering a world where animals are treated with dignity and respect. Switzerland's groundbreaking decision to require labels on meat, eggs, and other animal products that disclose whether they involve painful practices is a monumental step forward for animal welfare.
By empowering consumers with this critical information, Switzerland is not only encouraging more ethical purchasing decisions but also setting a powerful example for the world.
This law serves as a reminder that every action we take, from the food we buy to the choices we make, can have a profound impact on the lives of animals. We wholeheartedly support this move toward greater accountability and hope it inspires more countries to follow suit, ensuring a future where animals no longer suffer in silence.
