The Pew Commission report

In the USA, the independent Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production (PCIFAP) was formed to conduct a comprehensive, fact-based and balanced examination of key aspects of the farm animal industry. Commissioners represent diverse backgrounds and perspectives and come from the fields of veterinary medicine, agriculture, public health, business, government, rural advocacy and animal welfare.

For two and a half years, the PCIFAP, in consultation with other national experts, conducted an assessment of the industry's impact on the public’s health, the environment, farm communities and animal health and well-being. The PCIFAP conducted public meetings around the country and produced specialized technical reports to help inform the Commissioners and the public. 

On April 29, 2008 it issued a comprehensive report of its findings, including practical recommendations that have been made available to policymakers, industry stakeholders and the general public. PCIFAP is a project of The Pew Charitable Trusts and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

The report makes interesting reading - you can find links to the various reports below:

• Executive Summary Report
• Full Report
• Frequently Asked Questions

To my mind, the report raises serious concerns about:

• Public health threats, through air and water pollution and the mismanagement of antimicrobials (antibiotics)
• Animal welfare issues due to the prolonged containment of the animals
• Externalising of costs associated with the process, meaning the cost of the end product is higher, not lower