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Welfare Factors

Welfare Factors
A closeup of a dairy cow eating hay in the barn - chewing his cud
Welfare in the food system is becoming increasingly important throughout the globe, evident from the various surveys and increasing amount of legisalation and policy iniativies.

These welfare or ethical dilemmas may involve animals, people or the environment Animal welfare is related to how food production effects the quality of life and health of animals and the industry must act in accorddance to the Animal Welfare act of 2006. Human welfare is the welfare of people working in the food system. Environmental welfare is the effect of food production on the environment (covered by environmental factors).

In terms of welfare, food technology can offer both positive and negative impacts. For example, food technology can include mechanisms to improve animal husbandry and welfare. However, it may result in a reduced and upskilled workforce affecting the livelihoods of many, particularly living in rural areas.

What we would like you to do

Please share your thoughts on the potential welfare issues that food technology could present.

  • Can you think of any positive impacts in relation to welfare?
  • What negative impacts in relation to welfare can you think of?

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Revolutionising the Food Chain with Technology

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