Factory farming
Factory Farming
Factory farming (pronunciation: /ˈfæk.tər.i ˈfɑːr.mɪŋ/) is a type of intensive agriculture, specifically an approach to animal husbandry designed to maximize production, while minimizing costs.
Etymology
The term "factory farming" came into use in the early 20th century, as a critique of the changes occurring in the farming industry. The term is derived from the industrial nature of the farming methods used, which resemble those of a factory.
Definition
Factory farming involves raising livestock, such as poultry, cattle, and fish, at high density, where a farm operates as a factory — a practice typical in industrial farming by agribusinesses. The main products of this industry are meat, milk and eggs for human consumption.
Related Terms
- Intensive animal farming: A type of animal husbandry which involves high stocking density and rapid turnover.
- Battery cage: A confinement system used primarily for egg-laying hens.
- Feedlot: A type of animal feeding operation (AFO) which is used in factory farming for finishing livestock.
- Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO): A type of agricultural operation that meets certain animal confinement criteria.
- Agribusiness: The business of agricultural production, including various aspects such as farming, seed supply, agrichemicals, etc.
Criticisms
Factory farming has been criticized on many fronts. These include issues of animal welfare, environmental impact, and health risks. Critics argue that the methods used in factory farming are inhumane, that they contribute to environmental degradation, and that they pose risks to public health, such as the spread of zoonotic diseases and antibiotic resistance.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Factory farming
- Wikipedia's article - Factory farming
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