"Thumping a pig," more accurately called "piglet thumping," is a harsh and controversial practice used primarily in the pork industry. It is a method of euthanizing piglets that are deemed "non-viable," such as those that are sick, weak, injured, or born with defects. The process involves grasping the piglet by its hind legs and forcefully slamming its head against a hard surface like concrete, resulting in the piglet's death through blunt force trauma to the skull. This term originates from slaughterhouse jargon, where "thumping" or "PACing" (pounding against concrete) refers to killing piglets and sometimes baby goats by swinging them around and banging their heads against the floor or wall. The practice is legal and widespread in some regions, despite being viewed as brutal and inhumane by animal rights groups and activists. It is primarily used because it is a cost-effective way to euthanize animals that the industry considers economically nonviable. Many animal welfare organizations and experts condemn piglet thumping for its cruelty, the risk of human error, and the psychological impact it has on workers who perform it. It is often described as traumatizing both to the animals and workers involved. Some campaigns aim to end the practice due to ethical concerns. Overall, piglet thumping is a violent and grim method associated with factory farming and the industrial meat production system.
