Animal Welfare
Consumers are demanding to know where their food comes from, and as Americans continue to take a more active role in maintaining their health in the wake of rising obesity rates and diet-related diseases, a vested interest in animal welfare has emerged.
According to the Humane Society of the United States, 10 billion animals are slaughtered each year for human consumption. Regardless of where you fall in the spectrum of food choices—omnivore, vegetarian, or vegan—one point of agreement is that animals should be treated with compassion. Videos of blatant animal abuse produced undercover and distributed by the media have horrified consumers. As a direct result of the backlash, companies are taking steps to reduce abuses like eliminating gestation crates and ensuring outdoor access for chickens.
Farm Sanctuary // Farm Sanctuary protects farm animals from cruelty, inspires change in the way society views and treats farm animals, and promotes compassionate vegan living.
The Gentle Barn // The Gentle Barn rescues, rehabilitates and gives sanctuary to severely abused animals. Then kids interact with the animals to learn kindness, compassion and confidence.
Global Animal Partnership // A nonprofit charitable organization founded in 2008, brings together farmers, scientists, ranchers, retailers, and animal advocates—a diverse group with the common goal of wanting to improve the welfare of animals in agriculture.
The Humane Society of the United States // Its Farm Animal Protection Program works to reduce the suffering of animals raised for meat, eggs and milk.
Mercy for Animals // MFA serves as a voice for animals through proactive consumer education initiatives, cruelty investigations, corporate outreach, and legal advocacy.