Linking financial rewards to welfare improvements is a step towards embedding animal welfare as a key part of sustainability rather than an afterthought.

As advocates of the three R’s – refine, replace and reduce meat consumption – we recognise this as a positive move that could help raise standards in British farming and encourage other retailers to follow suit. But Tesco must also demonstrate consistent commitment across its full supply chain, including textiles and other product areas where progress is still needed. 

Crucially, retailers have a responsibility to ensure that higher-welfare farmers receive a fair price, to promote less and better meat consumption, and to avoid giving market preference to lower-welfare products on their shelves. Supporting honest, fairer food labelling that clearly sets out method of production, animal welfare standards, and country of origin will be vital in empowering consumers to make informed choices.

Simon Pope, Campaigns Lead, FOUR PAWS UK