Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 2 of 2
Full-Text Articles in Agribusiness
An Hsi Report: The Economics Of Adopting Alternatives To Gestation Crate Confinement Of Sows, Humane Society International
An Hsi Report: The Economics Of Adopting Alternatives To Gestation Crate Confinement Of Sows, Humane Society International
HSI REPORTS
There are a number of significant animal welfare concerns associated with gestation crates for sows, including tangible physical and psychological consequences. Studies document a decrease in muscle weight, bone density, and bone strength due to movement restriction and lack of exercise. Unable to engage in natural rooting and foraging behavior, crated sows often engage in “stereotypic” bar-biting, an abnormal behavior characterized by repeated mouthing movements on the metal rails of the crate. Crated sows also suffer from health problems associated with confinement including a higher rate of urinary tract infections as compared to uncrated sows. Continuous close confinement is a …
An Hsi Report: Adopting A Cage-Free Production Policy For Animal Products In Brazil, Humane Society International
An Hsi Report: Adopting A Cage-Free Production Policy For Animal Products In Brazil, Humane Society International
HSI REPORTS
Farm animal welfare is becoming an important concern for governments, producers, and consumers worldwide. In particular, intensive confinement systems, such as battery cages and gestation crates, have been acknowledged as severely impairing to the physical comfort and expression of natural behaviors of animals. The European Union and select states in the United States have already passed bills eliminating these housing systems over the next several years. Numerous international retail and food production companies, including Burger King (North America), Smithfield Foods, and McDonald’s (Europe) are committed to gradually eliminating the use and sale of eggs and pork produced via intensive confinement …