|
Animal Care and Foie Grass
At most Foie Gras Farms in the world, ducks are housed in individual cages for
the sake of efficiency. At Hudson Valley Foie Gras we believe in providing
conditions which allow for social interaction, exercise, freedom of movement,
and reduction of stress. For this reason, our ducks are maintained cage free.
(Observed by Erika Voogd, Humane Handling Consultant, November 17, 2007)
The essence of farming is caring for animals. At Hudson Valley Foie Gras, the
premier producer of foie gras in America, this is especially true.Our many years
of experience have taught us that respect for our people, environmental
stewardship and the care of our animals in a stress-free, comfortable environment
are the keys to producing the quality products chefs and cooking aficionados
expect from Hudson Valley Foie Gras.
Small numbers of specially bred ducks are individually hand fed to produce our
unique, signature foie gras. Our trained caretakers spend four times as much
caring for each animal as is the case in other foie gras farms. This special care
results in a wonderful product.
Waterfowl Physiology
The unique physiology of ducks makes hand feeding a stress free, non-invasive
procedure.According to Dr. Lawrence W. Bartholf, 2005 President, New York
Veterinary Medical Association and winner of several animal welfare awards,
(NYSHS 1988) (HSUS 1989) (NVMA 1990):
In mammals, fat storage in the liver indicates a problem, in waterfowl it is a
normal and reversible process. The comfort of the ducks is best illustrated by
their ease with the caretakers. Ducks normally maintain a “flight zone”: distance
from people. In feeding, the “flight zone” or avoidance of the caretakers is very
small. this is a very visible indication that the feeding process is not stressful
or harmful. As we at Hudson Valley say: “Let the duck himself show you!”
Supporting Research
Extensive Research regarding the animal welfare aspects of foie gras production
has been performed in recent years, supporting the observations discussed here.
Please see: www.artisanfarmers.org .| www.legalfoiegras.blogspot.com
|
