Believe it or not, there are no federal laws that protect birds during their lives on factory farms–not a single one. In fact, the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act, the only federal law that governs how farmed animals should be treated at the moment of slaughter, exempts birds entirely.
A new petition filed by Farm Sanctuary and the Animal Welfare Institute might change all of that.
The groups claim that rules and guidelines governing animal welfare must be officially adopted to ensure meaningful enforcement of the Poultry Products Inspection Act. This act requires USDA inspectors to cite poultry plants for mistreatment of birds that results in meat unfit for human consumption.
Sadly, documents obtained from January 2011 to July 2012 show that less than half of all poultry plants at which violations occurred were actually cited, demonstrating the need for clear and solid enforcement rules.
Chickens, who make up over 95 percent of all animals slaughtered for food in the U.S., are inarguably the most tortured animals on the planet.
The best way to help stop the suffering of these birds is simply to not eat them. Incredible plant-based versions of chicken meat abound, from Gardein to Beyond Meat, which fooled even “New York Times” food journalist Mark Bittman!
Visit ChooseVeg.com today and learn more about transitioning to a cruelty-free vegan diet.