Strange BedFellows: The Humane Society & So-Called Factory Farmers
http://thekojonnamdishow.org/shows/2012-02-15/strange-bedfellows-humane-society-so-called-factory-farmers
Slowly but steadily, the Humane Society is turning adversaries into partners in its effort to make the food supply more humane. Just last week, the the group's vegan director lobbied alongside the United Egg Producers and celebrated decisions made by McDonald's. We examine the incremental steps that are helping meat eaters feel better about the animal products they consume.
Guests
Wayne Pacelle
President and Chief Executive Officer, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS)
Chad Gregory
Senior Vice President, United Egg Producers
David Lathem
Egg Farmer; Chairman, Board of Directors, United Egg Producers
Comments
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I've been buying cage-free eggs for a long time, even though they cost quite a bit more. Some vegetarian friends have told me that "cage free" still isn't great for the chickens, as they are still crammed into barns and never get outside. Also, I've seen with surprise that Perdue now offers cage-free chickens in the grocery store. I thought that Perdue was one of the worst factory farmers - how are their chickens being raised now?
Antibiotics: What is the relationship between humane conditions and the use of antibiotics? Do cramped conditions increase the likelihood of disease?
I prefer to eat animals that have been raised humanely, but I am *much* more worried about agriculture practices that could lead to antibiotic resistance. The loss of effective antibiotics harms not only animals but also humans today and for future generations.
Hi Kojo,
I have long been a Kosher consumer, and about a year ago when I learned about some of the inhumane situations in which animals were bred and raised, I decided to attempt to try to consume only "cruelty-free" eggs and meat, in accordance with the Torah's injunction to avoid causing sorrow to animals. However, I have had a lot of trouble finding sources of organic, range free kosher meat. I was wondering if your guest could address any known sources of humane kosher meat and poultry.
In addition, since I have begun this food experiment, I have been told that many claims about humanely raised meat are specious. Specifically, I was recently told that the environment of cage free hens is not really qualitatively much different then a caged environment. See http://www.humanemyth.org/
This is very discouraging, since I am paying a premium to feed my family these alternative "humane" meats and eggs. Thanks for a great show!
Rose Litwack
The fact that the pork and beef producers oppose these new regulations because they "set a precedent" is so upsetting. God forbid we treat animals humanely. No, let's just make as much money as we can - that's what's really important! So, so sickening.
Kojo, could you have another show to address the "cage free" myth? I love chicken, and only buy "cage free" (see my above comment about Perdue), but if it's still so bad for the chickens, in large warehouses where they are crowded together so they can barely move and never see the light of day, I would consider not eating chicken or any other animal altogether.
Amy -
I think you've found the right answer.
I stopped.