From January 1, 2026, new European integration requirements for the welfare of farm animals during their keeping have already come into effect in Ukraine, which were approved by the order of the Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Agriculture of Ukraine dated 08.02.2021 No. 224.
This document specifies the requirements for animal housing, animal space, lighting, ventilation, feeding and watering. It also establishes the obligations of owners and keepers to undergo training on animal welfare, regularly inspect animals, provide timely veterinary care and keep records of veterinary drugs used and dead animals found during the inspection, as well as information on any changes in the health of animals, preventive measures carried out and veterinary interventions. Such records must be kept for 3 years in an accessible form for control and inspections.
The requirements apply to all types of farm animals, whether for the production of food, wool, leather, fur or other agricultural purposes, and also contain special (additional) standards for pigs, calves, broilers and laying hens.
All owners and keepers of farm animals are responsible for implementing the requirements, and they must take all necessary measures provided for by the legislation of Ukraine to ensure the well-being of farm animals and not cause them unnecessary pain, suffering or injury.
Compliance with these rules is not just a formality, as good animal welfare practices not only ensure the comfort of animals, but also contribute to improving their health. This is a chance to make your farm modern, ethical and more profitable, as well as to ensure the production of high-quality and safe products for consumers. From today, the new requirements are the responsibility of every pet owner.
With the support of Switzerland, within the framework of the Swiss-Ukrainian program "Development of trade with higher added value in the organic and dairy sectors of Ukraine" (Quality FOOD Trade Program), implemented by the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL, Switzerland) in partnership with SAFOSO AG (Switzerland), the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine and the State Service for Food and Consumer Protection of Ukraine, an infographic has been created that indicates the general requirements for the welfare of farm animals during their maintenance.
You can find various information materials on animal welfare on the official web portal of the State Service for Food Safety and Consumer Protection: https://dpss.gov.ua/diyalnist/bezpechnist-harchovih-produktiv-ta-veterinarna-medicina/blahopoluchchia-tvaryn.