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What is a CAFO?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) is a system of farming which concentrates a large number of animals into a small space for maximum efficiency. Examples of CAFOs include large-scale hog farms, veal calve raising operations, egg production facilities, and other similar “factory farms.” The term was originally coined by the United States' Environmental Protection Agency, as the system is most popular in the US, but can be found in other countries around the world. Advocates for the CAFO system argue that it is highly efficient and relatively inexpensive, while opponents question how humane it is, and also raise environmental concerns about CAFO practices.

The concept of concentrating a large number of animals in a central location for food production is quite old, but it was only in the latter half of the 20th century that the technique began to be refined. A shrinking number of family farms contributed to the rise of the CAFO, as did heavy consolidation of meat production in the hands of several major companies. The actual number of CAFOs is on the decline, but each individual CAFO has more animals than ever before. Animals are often shipped to a CAFO from multiple locations for raising, and then shipped out en masse to centralized slaughter and packaging facilities.

Environmental Impacts

Man holding a globe
Man holding a globe

Although CAFOs are more efficient on the surface than a small-scale or family farm, concerns have been raised about the hidden costs of running CAFOs, starting with the environmental impacts. Large amounts of animals generate large amounts of manure, which must be disposed of. One common technique is to create a sewage lagoon, but these lagoons can rupture, spilling raw sewage into rivers, groundwater, and the earth. Due to the heavy grain diet that animals in many CAFOs eat, combined with large amounts of prophylactic drugs, this manure is heavily contaminated with drug-resistant bacteria, as well as hormones that can alter exposed wildlife.

The animal rights movement has also attempted to educate consumers about the CAFO system worldwide, because they believe that it is harmful to animals. Though the standard of care between CAFOs varies, animals raised in a CAFO may spend their entire lives indoors, often closely packed with other animals. Food and water is provided in large automated troughs, and may lack nutritional variety, which is crucial for good health. Animals are more subject to diseases and behavioral problems because of the confined conditions, and they often live short, stressful lives.

Regulations

In the United States, where CAFOs are most popular, there has been the most action taken to reform the way US CAFOs are run. Many organizations and companies in the US began pushing for reforms in the 1990s, in response to consumer concerns, and as a result, many US states regulate CAFOs much more heavily than they used to. Government organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency, the United States Department of Argriculture, and the Food and Drug Administration keep a close eye on CAFOs. The US legislature has also introduced measures to address the problems with CAFOs, and is trying to find a workable way to use the efficient, centralized system without causing environmental damage. The Environment Agency of the United Kingdom has questioned the environmental impact of CAFOs and taken into consideration protests against building additional CAFOs in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CAFO and why are they significant in agriculture?

A Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) is a large-scale industrial agricultural facility where a high density of livestock, such as cows, pigs, or chickens, are confined for over 45 days a year. They are significant because they produce the majority of meat, dairy, and eggs in the U.S., with the EPA stating that there are approximately 18,800 CAFOs in the country. Their efficiency helps meet the demand for animal products, but they also raise environmental and ethical concerns.

What environmental concerns are associated with CAFOs?

CAFOs are linked to a range of environmental issues, including water pollution from runoff containing manure, chemicals, and other waste, which can lead to algal blooms and dead zones in water bodies. The Natural Resources Defense Council highlights air pollution from dust and odors, and greenhouse gas emissions contributing to climate change. Additionally, they can impact local ecosystems and biodiversity.

How do CAFOs impact animal welfare?

Animal welfare concerns in CAFOs stem from the high-density living conditions, which often restrict animals' natural behaviors and movements. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), animals in CAFOs may suffer from stress, injuries, and diseases due to overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and the lack of proper veterinary care, raising ethical questions about their treatment.

What regulations govern CAFOs in the United States?

In the United States, CAFOs are regulated primarily under the Clean Water Act, which requires them to obtain a permit if they discharge pollutants into waterways. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets guidelines for how CAFOs manage manure and wastewater to protect water quality. Additionally, states may have their own regulations that complement federal standards.

How do CAFOs contribute to antibiotic resistance?

CAFOs often use antibiotics to promote growth and prevent disease in crowded conditions, which can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern, as it can make bacterial infections in humans more difficult to treat and increase the risk of disease spread from animals to humans.

Are there sustainable alternatives to CAFOs?

Yes, sustainable alternatives to CAFOs include pasture-raised, free-range, and organic farming practices that prioritize animal welfare, environmental health, and local ecosystems. These methods typically involve lower animal densities and more natural living conditions. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) supports agroecological approaches that integrate crops and livestock, promoting biodiversity and reducing reliance on chemical inputs.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon147854

Our farm which is a medium size CAFO only uses drugs to cure our very occasional sick animals and we cannot market the meat until the drugs have cleared their bodies. (They are tested at slaughter and the meat condemned if there is drug residue in tissues.)

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