WSPA applauds the Retail Council of Canada's progressive steps for animal welfare

Canada's major food retailers take a stand against cruel gestation crates

TORONTO, April 30, 2013 /CNW/ - The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) applauds the Retail Council of Canada's (RCC) Grocery Members for their plans to source 100% of their pork from suppliers that do not use gestation crates by the end of 2022. The RCC represents more than 45,000 retail stores across Canada including the major grocery chains Co-op Atlantic, Canada Safeway, Costco Wholesale Canada, Federated Co-operatives Limited, Loblaw Companies Limited, Metro Inc., Sobeys Inc., and Walmart Canada Corp.

"Today's commitment means a better life for sows," says WSPA Canada Executive Director Josey Kitson.  "Gestation crates are being phased out or have been banned in eight states plus Australia, New Zealand and the European Union. Sows living in group housing systems are able to turn around, interact with other sows and express natural behaviour."

"The Retail Council of Canada's commitment to better animal welfare is an important step in addressing Canadian consumers' concerns about how their food is produced," says Kitson.

About the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA): At the World Society for the Protection of Animals we have worked to expose animal cruelty and prevent animal suffering for more than 30 years.  Working with individuals, organizations and governments across the globe, our campaign work ranges from putting animals at the heart of farming to protecting animals in disasters.  Consultative status with the United Nations means we have a unique international platform to prove that the lives of animals are inextricably linked to our own, and now more than ever is the time to stop their suffering.   For more information, visit us at www.wspa.ca; follow us on Twitter or 'Like' us on Facebook.

SOURCE: World Society for the Protection of Animals

and interviews please contact:
Elizabeth Sharpe, WSPA Communications Manager, [email protected], 416-369-0044 x111