Foie Gras Production and Waterfowl Welfare

Foie gras production involves force-feeding ducks and geese to enlarge their livers, a practice widely condemned as causing severe welfare harm.

Key Facts

Foie gras production requires force-feeding birds 2-4x their normal daily food intake for 2-4 weeks
A metal tube is inserted down the esophagus 2-3 times daily during gavage feeding
Birds develop livers 6-10 times their normal size, compromising respiratory function and mobility
Production is banned in over 15 countries including UK, Germany, Italy and most EU member states
California banned foie gras production in 2004, a ban upheld by the US Supreme Court in 2019

Welfare Considerations

The welfare evidence against foie gras production is extensive. Force-feeding causes esophageal lesions, chronic aspiration, and severe restriction of normal behavior. Birds experience respiratory compromise as enlarged livers displace lung space. Mortality during the gavage period is significantly higher than in normal waterfowl production. The restriction of natural feeding behavior - ducks are highly motivated foragers - adds a frustration component to the physical harm.

What You Can Do

Refuse to purchase or consume foie gras products
Support campaigns to extend foie gras bans to additional jurisdictions
Ask restaurants about their foie gras sourcing policies and encourage removal from menus
Support Humane Society campaigns targeting foie gras in luxury food markets