US Farm Animal Welfare: An Economic Perspective

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Farm animal welfare is one of the more controversial and complicated topics facing modern agriculture. To proceed forward, a sound understanding of multiple economic aspects must be appreciated. This article provides a short summary of these economic perspectives with a focus on the US situation. ABSTRACT: The topic of farm animal welfare (FAW) is both complex and controversial, and inherently involves expertise and views from multiple disciplines. This article provides a summary of economic perspectives on FAW issues in the United States. Practices related to FAW can occur through legal, market or voluntary programs. FAW is not a primary driver of US food demand but negative press has industry-wide effects. Aligning FAW supply and demand can be facilitated through labeling, education, and voluntary programs, but all have pros and cons.