Veal Calf Production and Welfare Reform

Veal production has historically involved some of the most severe welfare restrictions imposed on any farmed animal, though welfare reforms have improved conditions in parts of Europe while the US lags significantly behind.

Key Facts

Veal calves are male dairy cattle considered a by-product of the dairy industry since they cannot produce milk
Traditional white veal production kept calves in individual stalls so narrow they could not turn around
Veal crates have been banned throughout the EU since 2007, requiring group housing after 8 weeks of age
The US has no federal ban on veal crates, though several states have enacted their own prohibitions
Iron-restricted diets to produce pale flesh cause anemia and are prohibited in some European countries
Approximately 700,000 veal calves are slaughtered annually in the United States

Welfare Considerations

Traditional veal production imposed extreme welfare deprivations including inability to turn around, social isolation, iron-deficient anemia to produce pale meat, and slaughter at just a few months of age. EU reforms have meaningfully improved conditions, but significant welfare problems remain globally. The fundamental issue is that male dairy calves are a structural by-product of dairy production, and their welfare is tied to decisions made about dairy systems. Transition to group housing, adequate iron, and outdoor access can substantially improve veal calf welfare where it has been implemented.

What You Can Do

Reduce or eliminate veal consumption, particularly from sources without certified welfare standards
Support dairy farms that invest in humane outcomes for male calves rather than immediate sale to veal operations
Advocate for federal legislation banning veal crates in the United States
Support programs connecting male dairy calves with beef producers for better welfare outcomes
Donate to organizations working to improve veal calf welfare through legislative and industry reform