The San Diego-based company operates and franchises more than 2,200 Jack in the Box locations and 576 Qdoba Mexican Grill locations.
“We have evaluated scientific literature documenting the pros and cons of both environments from a welfare perspective and have consulted with our suppliers and animal-welfare experts on this issue,” states Jack in the Box, Inc. in its recently-updated Animal Welfare Report. “While experts generally agree that the most critical issue in ensuring humane treatment of gestational sows is not the housing system, but rather the animal husbandry practices of those that care for the sows, we believe group housing allows for greater movement for sows.
“In 2012, we informed our pork suppliers of our goal to source all pork from supply systems in which pregnant sows are cared for in a group housing environment instead of gestation stalls. We have begun discussing with our suppliers how they will complete such a transition by the end of 2022.”
According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), major food companies and retailers that have announced intentions to eliminate gestation crates from their supply chains include: McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, Costco, Kroger, Safeway, Kraft (Oscar Mayer), Heinz, Campbell Soup, Denny’s, Cracker Barrel, Carl’s Jr., Hardee’s, Sonic, Baja Fresh, Kmart, Compass Group, Aramark, Sysco, Sodexo, Subway and Wienerschnitzel.
