CAFOs — concentrated animal feeding operations — are cornerstones of modern agriculture.
While they’ve been in use for decades, the public is starting to realize the harms of industrial farms.
Let’s take a look.
WTF is a CAFO?
A CAFO is a large-scale facility where animals — usually cattle, pigs, or chickens —are confined in tight spaces for efficient production.
There are more than 21,500 CAFOs in the U.S., but they are most common in the Midwest and South. Iowa has the most CAFOs at about 4,200, followed by Minnesota, Nebraska, and North Carolina.
Why does it matter?
On average, about 90% of meat and eggs produced in the U.S. come from CAFOs.
While CAFOs keep costs lower for consumers, research shows they are dreadful for the health of humans, animals, and the Earth.
Impacts of factory farming
Public health pros, environmentalists, and animal welfare groups have a laundry list of CAFO detriments:
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CAFOs contribute to an increased risk of zoonotic disease and exposure to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
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Animals suffer in confined spaces, experiencing stress and reduced welfare.
- CAFOs generate harmful airborne emissions of hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and endotoxins that harm soil and biodiversity.
- Antibiotics, bacteria, and other pathogens, as well as heavy metals, nitrogen, and phosphorous found in animal manure, jeopardize water quality.
A better way
Transitioning away from the CAFOs and toward sustainable agriculture practices offers hope for safer meat production for people, animals, and the Earth.Regenerative agricultural practices — where animals graze on diverse pastures and contribute to soil health — can reduce environmental degradation and promote animal welfare. Regenerative ag also supports local, small-scale farmers who prioritize environmental stewardship and the treatment of animals.
