In Switzerland, Meat Labels Must Now Disclose Animal Cruelty Practices

In a big win for animal rights activists and food transparency, Switzerland now requires meat, dairy and egg labels to show if they were produced through painful procedures without anaesthesia or stunning.

The new ordinance is designed to give consumers clearer information about animal proteins and help them make informed purchasing decisions. In addition, it aims to encourage the livestock sector to transition to more ethical practices.

“When purchasing animal products such as meat, milk, or eggs, consumers will in future have access to additional information about the production method,” the Federal Council said. “This will enable them to determine whether these foods were produced using painful procedures without the animals being anaesthetised beforehand.”

The labelling requirement came into effect on July 1 and is accompanied by a transition period of two years.