Intensive methods of livestock production have led to spectacular increases in productivity. What was a special food only a few decade ago has been turned into a mass-produced and highly-processed commodity. But this desire for ever-cheaper meat has devastating consequences - not only for the welfare of farm animals - but also for the environment and human health. Many of us find the realities of industrial livestock production too horrific and we do not make any connection between the lives of the vast majority of farm animals and the meat, eggs and dairy products we buy. We can all make a dramatic difference to the lives of farm animals if we open our eyes to the realities of food production and choose organic products.

High animal welfare is central to organic farming which seeks to promote positive animal health. Positive health is defined as a positive physical and mental state whereby the livestock are robust and able to resist diseases. Positive animal welfare means the satisfaction of all the animal's needs, including their behavioural needs, and not just the avoidance of cruelty. The foundation stones of animal welfare are good nutrition, careful management and the use of appropriate breeds.

Follow the links below to find out more:

» Animal welfare - your questions answered
Find out more about animal welfare and how organic farmers look after their animals. You can also download the Soil Association's Batteries not Included report.

» Chickens and turkeys
The vast majority of our chickens and turkeys are produced in what are aptly described as factory farms. The life of an organic bird could not be more different. But not all organic chickens are the same. Find out what makes Soil Association organic chickens special, and how they are different from birds labelled 'free-range'?

» Bird flu
Find out more about avian influenza or bird flu, including the case for vaccination and answers to frequently asked questions.

» Pigs
Like chickens, most non-organic pigs are also reared in factory farms. But organic pigs live outdoors allowing them to exercise much more of their natural behaviour and keeping them free from cruel practises. Organic pigs are also reared to much higher standards than meat labelled 'outdoor-bred' or 'free-range'.

» Cows and sheep
Read the Soil Association's standards for organic sheep as well as beef and dairy cows. You can also find out about welfare-friendly organic veal and the nutritional benefits of organic milk.

» Antibiotics
Most intensively reared farm animals in this country are fed antibiotics each day. However, they have a potentially disastrous effect on human health.

» Links
You can find out more about animal welfare from other organisations.