Think.Eat.Act. This is a great slogan on the Beyond Factory Farming website. Looking at where your food comes from, how it is produced is crucial in our quest for sustainability. Even more important is understanding the repercussions of NOT knowing any of these things. The above picture isn’t exactly how you envisioned old Bessy grew up before she landed on your plate, now is it…
So what is factory farming? Also known as “agribusiness”, the key word here is factory, and what comes to mind when you hear that word? Fast, cheap, and efficient production! In today’s economy all that seems to matter is getting high output, at low costs, with a large profit margin. This is done by raising animals such as cows, pigs, and chickens in confined places, restricting movement, and feeding them vitamin supplements, growth hormones, and antimicrobial agents. My intention for this post is not about animal rights, though a valid issue, its the impact that this has on the environment, on me, and you. This idea of out of sight, out of mind is what has gotten us in the pickle our planet is in.
Informational films: This is a documentary called A Cow on My Table from the BBC. * WARNING this does contain some rather disturbing imagery, but its the reality of it, and its good to watch. The other is about the emotional life of animals, but talks about factory farming The Emotional World of Farm Animals.
What are the differences? Visit this link: Family farms vs Industrial Farms
Why should you care? Understanding where your food comes from empowers you and the choices you can make towards sustainable living. Take the extra time to read the label on your protein, and dairy products. For help on choosing the right food to put on your plate, visit: Eat Well Guide
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