Intensive duck production raises significant welfare concerns around water access, stocking density, and in foie gras production, force-feeding practices that cause severe suffering.
Duck welfare in commercial production is compromised primarily by denial of access to swimming water, a highly motivated behaviour that ducks attempt to fulfil even with minimal water provision. Ducks given access to even shallow water pools engage in extensive bathing and preening behaviour not seen in birds denied water access, indicating significant welfare relief from water provision. Foie gras production through force-feeding causes severe welfare harm through repeated oesophageal intubation, rapid liver enlargement causing discomfort, and reduced mobility. The welfare case against foie gras is unambiguous and supported by veterinary consensus.