Meat production in the United States has been steadily increasing since the 1960s and is projected to continue. Accompanying this production trend is unprecedented diet- and environment-related illness. It is critical to reform the way food animals are raised and curb consumption and production to reduce the negative effects this system has on our health.

Designed for busy health professionals, this resource provides an overview of threats to public health from industrial agriculture practices and how to engage in timely policy discussions as Congress prepares to debate the Farm Bill.

Reasons to act

• Industrial meat production is unsustainable and presents an unjustified risk to public health.
• There is a better way to raise animals for food consumption, one that is healthy for the consumer and the environment. 
• Health care professionals can improve public health by advocating for better food policy that curbs the negative consequences of industrial meat production.