Farm Animals

Goose Liver Production Ethics

Foie gras production involves force-feeding ducks and geese to enlarge their livers — a practice banned in many countries.

Key Facts

Foie gras production requires force-feeding twice daily for 2-4 weeks
Gavage causes esophageal damage and liver disease as intended effects
France, Hungary, and Bulgaria are the main producers — over 20 countries ban it
Natural fatty liver occurs in migratory birds before flight — foie gras exploits this

Welfare Considerations

Force-feeding for foie gras causes documented harm: esophageal damage from repeated tube insertion, liver disease causing discomfort and breathing difficulty, and extreme stress from confinement. The practice takes a natural physiological process in migratory birds and induces a pathological version of it. Over 20 countries have banned production as incompatible with humane treatment.

What You Can Do

Refuse to purchase or consume foie gras or products containing it
Support bans on foie gras production and import in your country
Advocate for enforcement of existing foie gras bans
Support chefs and restaurants that have removed foie gras from their menus