Geese in conventional farming face welfare challenges from confinement and handling; high-welfare goose production is possible with appropriate management.
Geese raised in welfare-positive systems — with outdoor access, water for bathing, social groupings, and minimal stressful handling — show good welfare outcomes. The contrasting cases of foie gras production and live plucking for down involve deliberate harm. Consumer choices for goose products should distinguish between welfare-positive production and practices involving force-feeding or live plucking.