General
What is the risk of farmed poultry contracting avian influenza (or ‘bird flu’)?
Avian influenza, commonly called bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects birds but can also pose risks to other animals and humans.
Do eggs from free-range systems pose a food safety risk?
In barn and free-range egg production systems, hens have access to a nest in which to lay their eggs. This is a key behavioural need for layer hens.
Is eating foie gras an animal welfare issue?
Most foie gras (a type of duck/goose liver paté), especially that produced in France, comes from ducks or geese that have been force-fed. During this process, the birds’ beaks are forced open, a tube is passed down the throat, and grain is forced into their stomach under pressure.
What are the animal welfare issues with mass killing of farmed animals using ventilation shutdown?
Ventilation shutdown (VSD) methods cause prolonged distress and suffering of animals before death.
What is mass killing?
Mass killing, or the killing of large numbers of farmed animals, is at times required in the event of an emergency animal disease outbreak to control and prevent further spread of the disease.