Welfare science for geese in conventional and welfare-positive production systems
Geese are farmed globally for meat, liver (foie gras), feathers (down), and eggs. Major producers include China (by far the largest), Hungary, France, and Poland. Geese are social, intelligent waterfowl with strong natural behaviors — grazing, swimming, and complex social interactions — that standard production systems often prevent. The most contentious welfare issue is foie gras production through force-feeding (gavage).
Force-feeding for foie gras causes documented welfare harm: esophageal trauma, difficulty walking, respiratory distress, and liver disease causing systemic illness. Scientific reviews by EFSA (2004) and multiple national veterinary bodies have concluded foie gras production causes animal suffering. Despite this, France, Hungary, and Bulgaria continue significant production as cultural exceptions.
Geese, like ducks, have strong behavioral needs for water immersion — bathing, swimming, and foraging in water. Research documents that geese without swimming water show significantly higher stress behaviors, eye and nasal discharge (indicating chronic stress), and lower welfare scores. Minimum water provision (drinking troughs with head immersion capability) is a significant improvement over drinking nipples alone; full swimming access represents optimal welfare for this species.