Increasing Concern, Confusion, About Animal Welfare In U.S. Food Industry

Animal welfare – i.e., housing, handling, feeding, and slaughter – in the food industry is a major concern of American consumers, according to a market researcher. The concern stems from worries about food safety: there is a belief that animals raised under healthy conditions will produce meat and poultry that is safer, better tasting and more nutritious. But consumers seem to be confused about some product claims. For example, only 19 percent said they understood the terms ”grass-fed” or “certified humane.” A third said they are well-informed about claims such as hormone-, steroid-and antibiotic-free, cage-free, free-range, pasture-raised, and certified humane. Nevertheless, two-thirds agreed that humane treatment of animals raised for food should be a societal concern and a regulatory issue.