Pork Is Already Super Expensive. This New Animal-Welfare Law Could Push Prices Higher

By Alicia Wallace

CNN Business

Pork, much like everything else these days, has gotten more expensive due in part to the supply chain issues and inflationary pressures spurred by the pandemic.

And now comes another wildcard: The pork industry's ability — and desire — to adapt to a new animal welfare law in California, its largest U.S. market.

The voter-approved measure taking effect on Jan. 1 requires pork products sold within the state to adhere to standards that mother pigs are given at least 24 square feet of space each and kept out of gestation crates — 7-by-2-foot stalls where their movements are severely restricted.

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