Today I read this heart breaking article in the Washington Post.
Not only are people at risk for contracting salmonella, but what a sad waste of time and energy for all those poor chickens, that according to the article, likely came from farms with a history of chicken abuse and mistreatment. I have trouble understanding how, as a civilized society, we have allowed our need for eggs to translate into a turn-the-other-cheek attitude toward factory farms and the sad treatment of innocent creatures. Creatures that dedicate their entire lives to providing us with nourishment.
Perhaps too many people are just plain ignorant to the concept of factory farms or what happens to their meat, eggs and dairy before they eat them? I can't dare to think that they just plain don't care. I am not advocating that everyone become vegan, simple that we treat animals humanely whenever possible. And that we make a concerted effort to buy only meat, eggs and dairy from sources that treat animals with decency and respect.
Or better yet, keep your own happy backyard chickens! They are easy, lovable, fun and will provide you with healthy eggs. Many cities allow the keeping of up to two hens, and if your city, county or HOA ordinance prohibits it- you could always fight to change the laws. My wonderful chickens, Mavis and Flo, provided me with 1 egg a day. And their daily stroll in the garden added wonderful fertilizer to my crops.
So for anyone who needs to know more about why or how, I suggest a review of the following:
Food, Inc
Omnivore's Dilemma
backyardchickens.com
Farm City
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