To the Editor,

In response to the recent recall of 143 million lbs. of beef - it is difficult to understand how and why in this 21st century humans are still viewing animals as “ours” to use for whatever purpose we deem fit.  The treatment of animals in “factory farms” and slaughterhouses is nothing new and neither is the threat to our health from eating meat produced in these horrific conditions.  

Everyday millions of cows, pigs, chickens, turkeys, and other animals are confined to small cramped spaces in factory farms, not allowed to roam free or exhibit their own natural behaviors.  They are often fed an unnatural diet, as well as given horomones, antibiotics and various other drugs in an effort to prevent disease.  These drugs are in the meat that we eat and the affects on human health are widely known.  

After a relatively short time when compared to the animals’ natural life span – they are sent to slaughterhouses where cruelty is rampant and often times animals are abused and tortured, and sometimes still alive while being processed and skinned.  
Slaughterhouses have a 100 percent employee turnover rate due to injury and stress and safety training is often difficult due to the fact that many workers do not speak English and are often illegal immigrants or citizens that have a difficult time finding other suitable employment.

Factory farming contributes to global warming and it is estimated that the methane that is produced as a result of animal waste is equal to the damage caused from our cars and trucks.  Animal waste pollutes our ground, our water, and our air.  

It would serve everyone well to take the time to educate themselves on this issue and information is readily available from many sources.  Eating meat is simply bad for the animals, the environment, and our health.  Contrary to what many believe, a vegetarian diet is not only healthier; it can be just as satisfying.  I have been asked many times – “why don’t you like meat”?  My answer is – “I do” - but like everything else, it is a choice and I have found that by not eating meat or at least rarely eating it, other foods taste better and with a little education, the transformation is not that difficult.  Over time the desire simply disappears.

Ideally it would be great if everyone made this commitment, but for those who will not – why not consider at least cutting way back on meat consumption and only purchasing meat that is organic, free range, and locally raised?  With a little effort you can find many sources for healthier meats and dairy products.

These websites can provide you with all you need to research both the issue of factory farming and put you on the path to changing your diet and your heatlh.

www.farmsanctuary.org
www.pcrm.org (Physician’s Committee for Responsible Medicine)
www.goveg.com
www.aspca.org
Excellent video - "Earthlings" narrated by Joaquin Phoenix

Juli DeJonghe
Macon Township