Foie gras production involves force-feeding ducks and geese to enlarge their livers beyond normal size, causing significant welfare harm that has led to production bans in multiple countries.
Foie gras production is banned in the UK and many European countries precisely because it cannot be produced without inflicting welfare harms that exceed legal limits. The birds experience repeated invasive procedures, the physical discomfort of vastly enlarged livers, and the respiratory and mobility difficulties that accompany hepatic lipidosis. Despite this, importation and sale of foie gras remains legal in the UK. The welfare case for extending the production ban to a sales ban — as proposed through various legislative attempts — is strong and consistent with UK welfare principles. Consumer avoidance is an effective immediate action.