Farm Animals

Farmed Duck Foie Gras Welfare

Foie gras production requires force-feeding (gavage) of ducks and geese, causing welfare harm that has led to bans in many countries.

Key Facts

Foie gras is produced by force-feeding ducks or geese 2-3 times daily for 2-3 weeks
Gavage causes liver enlargement to 8-10 times normal size
The practice is banned in the UK, Germany, and many other countries
France and Hungary are the largest remaining producers
Import bans on force-fed foie gras have been proposed in multiple jurisdictions

Welfare Considerations

Foie gras production causes severe welfare harm through forced overfeeding and organ damage. Consumer refusal to purchase the product and advocacy for import bans are the most effective welfare interventions.

What You Can Do

Do not purchase or consume foie gras produced through force-feeding
Advocate for import bans on force-fed foie gras in your country
Support restaurants and retailers that have removed foie gras from their offerings
Engage with the debate about ethical alternatives to traditional foie gras
Support campaigns by organisations working to end foie gras production