While foie gras production attracts much welfare attention, the welfare of geese in mainstream meat production systems also deserves scrutiny and improvement.
Mainstream goose farming welfare receives little public attention compared to the foie gras controversy, yet the welfare conditions of most commercially farmed geese fall significantly short of their needs. Geese are water-adapted birds that have evolved to spend significant time swimming, bathing, and foraging in aquatic environments. Denial of water access - common in intensive systems - causes feather damage, eye problems, and significant behavioural frustration. Their complex social bonds and intelligence mean social disruption and barren environments cause genuine psychological suffering. UK artisan Christmas goose producers often maintain higher welfare standards including outdoor access and water. The challenge is extending these standards to the larger-scale production that supplies year-round goose products.