Factory Farming: An Unhealthy Idea
Thursday, July 19, 2012 - Raw Team
Raw news
Barely a day goes by without yet another diet tip; eat this, drink that, avoid these... Some are based on sound science – others are more of a fad. Well we’ve got one that everyone should keep in mind; if you’re going to eat meat, for the sake of your own health, choose the highest welfare option possible.
New research
New research from Compassion in World Farming examined over 200 research studies to see if meat, eggs and milk from higher welfare farm systems is nutritionally different to products from factory farms. The result? Yes, and higher welfare options take the prize.
The tastiest facts
-
Higher welfare = lower fat content
For example, higher-welfare chicken contain up to 65% less fat.
-
Higher welfare = higher levels of omega-3
For example, the fat in higher welfare chicken contains up to 565% more omega-3.
Omega-3 is vital for good health, aiding brain development and heart health.
-
Higher welfare = higher levels of antioxidants
For example, higher-welfare eggs contain up to 100% more vitamin E.
Antioxidants are vital for good health, helping fight diseases such as cancer.
No surprise
It’s a no brainer if you think about it. Factory farmed animals live like couch potatoes, eating a grain-heavy diet with no access to pasture.
A win-win
So higher welfare farming is good for the animals and the planet, but it’s also better for us. By enjoying tastier higher-welfare animal products, you could significantly reduce your dietary intake of fat, including saturated fat, and increase your intake of omega-3 and antioxidants. Good news all round.
Appetite for more? Why not take a look at the report summary. Or if you're really hungry for knowledge, check out the full report.