NorthernAutumn wrote:
As for this topic... well...
Slaughterhouses here generally operate on a strict methodology by which animals are to be killed in a humane fashion (supposed to be quick and painless). I believe that the majority of commercial animals are stunned immediately before being killed.
For me, it's more of an issue of how the animals are treated prior to being killed. I've read and seen enough things detailing the awful conditions of feedlots, or giant poultry operations. (IE, Michael Pollan's _The Omnivore's Dilemna_, or the documentary "Food, Inc.") I know there are laws requiring animals be killed humanely, but it's "ok" to feed them a diet that will eventually kill them, or confine them to cages they can't even move in, or breed an animal so it cannot behave in a natural way?
Before going veg, I looked into eating only meat that has been raised in a more healthy, humane, natural, sustainable way. At the scale it's currently being done at, it is out of my price range. It is more acceptable to me to eat an animal that has lived a good life. But if I cannot manage that, it is better for me to not eat an animal at all. I do still eat dairy, and I make an effort, and spend more money, to purchase only free-range eggs, and milk that is locally and sustainably produced. No confinement operations. I eat quite a lot of cheese, but it is mostly from smaller, non-industrial companies that don't employ practices I abhor. If/when price becomes an issue, I will simply purchase less, rather than compromise my beliefs.
Sorry, I didn't mean to veer into this topic, I just wanted to make the distinction that it's not always about the animal dying, but it's also about how the animal has lived. Overall quality of life, and environmental impact.
On the issue of food waste......Since moving into my house, I am very happy that I am now able to compost. The majority of my food waste is compostable. While some things are still being "wasted," they will now eventually be turned into compost that will help to feed my garden, and grow more food.
I am happy that the city of San Francisco now has the composting law, so residents are required to separate their food waste from their recycling and other trash.
Food waste is a tricky issue for me. I am appalled that so much food is simply thrown away, it could feed so many people..... But I am also vehemently opposed to people who already get enough to eat, eating something just so it doesn't "go to waste." That is SO unhealthy, and a contribution to the poor health of so many people.
OK, sorry to go off-topic.
:tears2:
