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FactuallyVegan
Frequently Asked Question
Animal Welfare

“Animals are treated humanely”

Last reviewed: January 9, 2026

Summary

Many standard industry practices prioritize productivity and cost efficiency over welfare, including confinement systems, early separation, and painful procedures often performed without analgesia in some contexts. Welfare standards vary widely by country, certification, and farm.

Evidence Summary

  • Welfare outcomes depend on housing, handling, breeding for production traits, transport, and slaughter conditions.
  • “Humane” labels vary in meaning and enforcement. Evidence quality: Moderate (varies by jurisdiction; documentation exists but is fragmented) Limitations / nuance: Some higher-welfare systems improve conditions; the critique is about standard practices and inherent constraints (killing at a fraction of lifespan, etc.).
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Supporting Evidence

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