At Kepak, we believe animals deserve to be treated with care, compassion, and respect—always. Working with our supplying farmers, and throughout every stage of the process, animal welfare is at the heart of everything we do. Looking after animals properly is not just about following the law—it is about doing the right thing. When animals are treated well, they are healthier and less stressed, which also means better-quality meat for our customers. It is a win for everyone.
Our Commitment
We strictly follow all animal welfare laws, including EU and UK regulations. But we don’t stop there. We go beyond compliance by:
- Only sourcing from trusted farmers who share our values
- Training all staff in proper handling and care
- Monitoring animal welfare through regular checks and audits
We also work closely with independent assurance schemes such as Bord Bia, Red Tractor, FAWL and QMS, to ensure high standards are met on every farm we work with.
Guided by the Five Freedoms
Kepak is proud to uphold the internationally recognised Five Freedoms of animal welfare:
- Freedom from hunger and thirst – Clean water and a balanced diet are always available.
- Freedom from discomfort – Animals are kept in safe, clean, and comfortable environments.
- Freedom from pain, injury, and disease – We prioritise prevention and act quickly when animals need care.
- Freedom to express natural behaviour – Animals are given the space and social setting to behave naturally.
- Freedom from fear and distress – Calm handling and quiet surroundings help reduce stress at every stage.
Responsible Sourcing
We build long-term relationships with farmers who raise animals to the highest welfare standards. We source beef and lamb which have been typically raised on open, grass-based systems. This not only supports the animals’ wellbeing but also aligns with sustainable, traditional farming methods.
Every supplier must follow strict guidelines, and we carry out regular farm audits to ensure our expectations are met.
We also support farmers in adopting more sustainable and welfare-friendly practices through training and ongoing collaboration.
Transport that Cares
Animal welfare does not stop at the farm. That is why we ensure animals are transported safely and comfortably:
- Vehicles must meet legal and assurance requirements
- All drivers and handlers are trained in animal welfare
- Journey times are kept to a minimum to reduce animal stress
- Emergency plans are in place to care for animals if delays occur
Why It Matters
Good animal welfare is not only the right thing to do—it is essential for quality, sustainability, and trust. At Kepak, we are proud to uphold the highest welfare standards and continue working with our partners to raise the bar even further.