Farmers’ And Consumers’ Perceptions Of Animal Welfare In Livestock Breeding
This study examined consumer perceptions of the treatment of farm animals in the Netherlands using a series of qualitative interviews with animal farmers and consumers. Perceptions were analyzed with a frame of reference consisting of values, norms, convictions, interests, and knowledge.
According to these findings, the perceptions of farmers about farmed animal breeding are consistently positive, although the perceptions of consumers are divergent and generally negative. Both groups displayed ambivalence resulting from discrepancies between perceptions and behavior.
Consumers generally perceive the living conditions of farmed animals to be far less than optimal, but most still buy and eat meat. On the other hand, farmers believe that the welfare of their animals is good, yet they are uncomfortable with expressions or accusations of mistreatment of the animals.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1015012403331