News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Scott Macdonald 310.996.2671

MEASURE THREATENS SCIENCE-BASED FARM PRACTICES

February 25, 2008 - The following statement was released today by Californians for Sound Farm Animal Agriculture as signatures were submitted by proponents of the “Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act”:

"This measure is primarily an effort to ban the use of a scientifically proven method for housing egg-laying hens. If implemented it would trigger unintended consequences which are likely to include increased farm costs, decreased in-state production and higher egg prices for California families. There could also be significant environmental and food safety impacts."

"California’s farmers and ranchers are committed to caring responsibly for their animals, and most egg farmers here practice the voluntary care guidelines recommended by the United Egg Producers - methods which were carefully developed by an independent panel of scientists and animal welfare experts. This measure ignores those advances in favor of a one-size-fits all mandate that many experts believe will do nothing to improve, and may even jeopardize, hen welfare."

"California egg farmers already employ a variety of methods of housing egg-laying hens, including conventional housing, cage free, free range and organic. This market-driven diversity provides consumers with choices that inform sound farm practices."

"Animal welfare policies belong in the hands of experienced scientists, veterinarians and farmers who are best qualified to protect farm animals and the food they provide to California families."

Californians for Sound Farm Animal Agriculture, sponsored by egg farmers, veterinarians, ranchers and consumers
with major funding provided by NuCal Foods, Inc. and Norco Ranch, Inc.
11301 West Olympic Blvd., Suite 604 • Los Angeles, CA 90064 • Tel: 310/996-2670 • Fax: 310/996-2673