Farmed Goose Welfare and Foie Gras

Foie gras production through force-feeding of geese and ducks has been banned in over 15 countries due to the severe welfare suffering it causes.

Key Facts

Foie gras production involves force-feeding birds 2-3 times daily with a tube inserted into the oesophagus
The liver enlarges 6-10 times its normal size, causing hepatic steatosis and impaired function
Force-feeding causes oesophageal trauma, difficulty breathing, and inability to walk normally
Over 15 countries including the UK, Germany, and Australia ban foie gras production
Several US states and cities have banned foie gras production or sale

Welfare Considerations

Force-fed geese and ducks experience repeated painful procedures, liver dysfunction causing systemic illness, and difficulty breathing from enlarged livers pressing on the diaphragm. The practice has been condemned by veterinary organisations globally as causing unnecessary suffering. The enlarged liver impairs normal metabolism and causes clinical signs of hepatic failure. There is no welfare justification that outweighs the documented suffering caused by foie gras production.

What You Can Do

Never purchase or order foie gras products
Support campaigns to extend foie gras production bans globally
Advocate for import bans in countries where production is banned but import is permitted
Raise awareness about foie gras production methods in restaurants and among consumers
Support the development and promotion of ethical plant-based alternatives