Animal Welfare Certification is a step forward for the Well-being of farm animals in Greece. Q-CERT has developed a dedicated private certification scheme that fully meets the market’s need for ensuring the welfare of farm animals in Greece.
The European Union has periodically established legislative frameworks to safeguard the welfare of farm animals within livestock units. Through the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), it encourages producers to comply with rules that guarantee the humane treatment of animals.
At the same time, consumers are showing increasing interest in the welfare of farm animals, which is beginning to influence their purchasing habits.
Q-CERT’s Response to Market Demands
In response to the modern demands of the market and consumer expectations, Q-CERT established the Animal Welfare (Management System) Certification Scheme in 2023. This scheme fosters trust among consumers, producers, and food businesses while promoting respect for farm animals.
What Does the Animal Welfare Certification Define?
The certification outlines the requirements for the development and implementation of a Management System aimed at producing animal-derived products from animals raised in welfare-compliant conditions.
The five key freedoms and care principles for farm animals
- Freedom from hunger and thirst. Animals must have easy access to food and water to ensure full health and vigor.
- Freedom from discomfort. Ensuring suitable environmental conditions, including sheltered housing and a comfortable resting area.
- Freedom from pain, injury, or disease. Through prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
- Freedom to express normal behavior. By providing sufficient space, appropriate facilities, and companionship of animals of the same species.
- Freedom from fear and distress. Ensuring handling conditions that avoid mental suffering.
Animal welfare is directly linked to food chain safety, especially for animals raised for food production. There is a strong relationship between animal welfare, animal health, and foodborne diseases. Therefore, animal welfare is considered an integral part of the Safety and Quality of livestock products, and consequently, Public Health.
The Certification Scheme Requirements Are Based On
Who Can Be Certified?
The Q-CERT Animal Welfare Certification is intended for
Benefits of Animal Welfare Certification
Products from certified units gain a competitive advantage in the market due to the added value of ensuring the humane treatment of farm animals.
Recognizing that farm animals are an integral part of the ecosystem’s biodiversity—not automated production machines—farmers who adopt the certification’s requirements enjoy greater quantities and higher quality products, as a “happy” animal is more productive and efficient.
Information on the Regulation and Application Process
If you wish to receive the Certification Regulation, Annexes, or the Application Form, please contact Q-CERT.
Frequently Asked Questions about Animal Welfare Certification
How does Q-CERT’s Animal Welfare Certification differ from existing legal obligations?
Q-CERT’s certification goes beyond mere legal compliance. It is based on a private scheme that incorporates best practices from scientific literature, international experience, and EU guidelines, surpassing the minimum legal requirements for animal welfare.
What are the practical benefits for a business that chooses certification?
Certified businesses gain a competitive edge by differentiating their products, which are seen as more ethical and of higher quality. Certification boosts consumer trust, facilitates access to demanding markets, and demonstrates social responsibility.
Who can apply for Animal Welfare Certification?
The certification is open to both primary sector (e.g., cattle or small ruminant farms) and secondary sector (e.g., dairy industries) operators. It therefore covers the entire animal product supply chain.
How is animal welfare linked to food safety?
There is a direct link: good animal welfare reduces stress and illness, thereby decreasing the need for medications or antibiotics, and minimizing the risk of foodborne infections. Certification thus contributes to both food safety and public health.
How can I obtain the Regulation and begin the certification process?
You can contact Q-CERT directly to request the Regulation, Annexes, and the application form. The process includes an evaluation of your facility and implementation of a management system based on welfare principles.