Male calves born to dairy cows have no productive use in the dairy system. In many countries they are shot at birth, exported for intensive veal production, or raised in poor conditions. Welfare alternatives are growing.
Male dairy calves are a structural by-product of the dairy system. Shooting at birth, while welfare-neutral if done correctly, is economically driven. Export for white veal involves long transport and crating. Rose veal offers a welfare-positive alternative where calves have outdoor access, social housing, and a forage-containing diet. Supporting rose veal reduces commercial pressure for inhumane disposal and live export.