Oprah Exposes Factory Farms

I was very excited to hear that Oprah was doing a show on the conditions in which animals on factory farms are raised. The reporter Lisa Ling traveled to factory farms and "ethical" organic farms. I was very surprised that these factory farmers allowed cameras inside their facilities. The chicken facility was horrible, but the pig facility was fairly clean. I suspect it is one of the "better" pig factory farms. The veal farm was very sad. It's no surprise these farmers were quite against Prop 2 in California - they do not want to be forced to provide more room for the animals. They claim it would put them out of business. However, what made them implement this way of farming in the first place? Some misguided belief that it was better for the animals (surely they don't believe this deep within their souls), or the nice idea of saving money so as to compete better in the market and realize a higher profit? I think they are more concerned for the bottom line than animal welfare.

And on the other side we have the ethical, organic farmers. It is quite clear that the ethically raised animals are happier and healthier and are being treated humanely. The pig farmer used to farm his pigs in the factory way, and made the change. He says it's actually cheaper for him to let the pigs roam outside in the sunshine. The chicken farmer lets his chickens scratch in the dirt and grass outside all day and go to roost in a building at night. The organic cow farmer pastures his cows in the fresh air and sunshine and sells calves for veal. At least these veal calves get to stay with their mothers for their 16-week long lives.

Throughout the show, Oprah was very fair and allowed each side to speak for itself. She was careful not to criticize the factory farms, as I'm sure she doesn't want to get sued by the meat industry (again). I am grateful for Oprah to bring this to her show, at least some people will change their ways as a result.