Geese are farmed for meat and down globally, with welfare conditions varying from extensive traditional systems to intensive operations with significant welfare concerns.
Goose welfare varies enormously by production system. Geese in traditional extensive systems with grass access, natural social structures, and space for movement have much better welfare than those in intensive indoor housing. Live plucking for down causes obvious pain and stress and is indefensible welfare practice. The Responsible Down Standard and similar schemes attempt to address this but traceability and enforcement are challenging. Consumers choosing down products should look for certified no-live-pluck or no-force-fed standards.