Live plucking of geese for down feathers causes acute pain and distress and is practiced in Eastern Europe despite bans in many countries.
Live plucking tears feathers from follicles before natural moulting, causing acute pain demonstrated by vocalisation and escape behaviour. Wounds from skin tears are prone to infection. The practice is repeated multiple times annually throughout the bird's life. Consumer purchasing power has driven significant supply chain change, with many major brands now requiring Responsible Down Standard certification that prohibits live plucking.