There can never be too many reminders of the horrors of factory farming.
No, this is a not a discussion about the food chain, or about the health benefits of going vegetarian. If you eat any meat, dairy, chicken or eggs at all: this is about choosing the products that have the least amount of cruelty associated with their production.
This video serves as a brief introduction to the work of the British organization Compassion In World Farming. They have worked since the 1960's to improve life for these animals, and their work has paid off. In 2007 they achieved a ban on veal crates in the European Union, which led to the EU's agreement to phase out sow stalls and battery cages within the next decade.
They have expanded across Europe and beyond. As world demand for cheap meat increases, the South American rain forests will continue to be devastated for cattle grazing and growing feed for cattle. The issue is not going away.
By now we all know that reducing meat consumption is crucial for a sustainable food scenario going forward. But since we're not all going to be dairy and egg free vegans no matter what, let's start with what we can do, right now.
There is much information available about the fact that "free range" is just as cruel and inhumane as regular factory farming. The best way to procure eggs, meat, dairy and chicken is to support your small local farms, assuming you live near one that raise animals humanely. This is a great thing to bring your neighbors in on and buy in bulk, to reduce the trips and the cost. If that's not possible, find out about the most humane sources for these products through your local health food store.
Let's keep as informed as possible, continue spreading the word. Start with what you can. The more dollars we can redirect in the right direction, the better.
--Bibi Farber
This video was produced by Compassion In World Farming