Feedlot beef production, dominant in the USA, Australia and parts of South America, involves confining cattle at high density for rapid weight gain. The welfare implications are substantial.
Feedlot cattle are often unable to express natural grazing, exploratory and social behaviours. High-grain finishing diets cause acidosis and liver abscesses. Overcrowding increases respiratory disease transmission. While not practiced at this intensity in UK beef production, imported beef from feedlot systems is common in UK food service. Consumer choices and labelling can drive sourcing change.