The issue that arises with CAFOs is waste management. The EPA says that the manure and wastewater have the potential to contribute such pollutants as nitrogen and phosphorus, organic matter, sediments, pathogens, heavy metals, hormones and ammonia that can negatively impact the environment.
A more sustainable and environmentally friendly way to raise meat is through the use of a pasture-based system. The GRACE communications foundation says that pasture-raising animals not only helps reduce environmental damage, but yields meat, eggs and dairy products that are more nutritious than those produced on factory farms.
Many farmers choose not to pasture raise their animals because of reduced output. However, when taken into consideration the health benefits that come from pasture-raised animals, the benefits of pasture raising might outweigh the output benefit of CAFOs.
Pasture-raised animals
- require fewer or no antibiotics, which can stay in the meat
- eat grass, instead of unhealthy grain
- are exposed to a diet free of unnatural feed additives
- are hormone free
- have higher levels of vitamins and a healthier balance of omega-3 and omega-6
Free range chickens have
- 21 percent less total fat
- 30 percent less saturated fat
- 28 percent fewer calories
- eggs with 10 percent less fat, 40 percent more vitamins and 400 percent more omega 3's
In order for companies to reduce the use of concentrated animal feeding operations, there needs to be consumer demand. If consumers choose to buy more pasture-raised meat, stores will stock more.
What is your opinion on CAFOs? Is there anything that this post left out that you wanted to know? Do you have a story idea that you want to see covered. Leave a comment below, and I will add your idea to the list.
