Investigation Exposes Animal Abuse at U.S. Supplier to World’s Largest Meat Company
JBS, the world’s largest meat producer, has been under scrutiny following the arrest of its executives for insider trading and bribery. An undercover investigation by Mercy for Animals (MFA) revealed disturbing animal abuse at Tosh Farms, a JBS pork supplier based in Kentucky. The probe captured shocking footage of the “malicious and systemic abuse of mother pigs and piglets,” sparking outrage and calls for change.
The MFA investigator documented workers at Tosh Farms engaging in cruel practices, including kicking and striking animals, ripping out the testicles of piglets, and even smashing piglets’ heads against the ground. Video footage captures the suffering of animals denied proper veterinary care and subjected to brutality.
Following the video’s release, JBS stated that it suspended shipments from the supplier site without disclosing the supplier’s name. MFA criticized this response as insufficient and mere public relations spin, calling on JBS to end cruelty in its global pork supply chains and demanding the elimination of agonizing mutilations and an end to keeping sows in tiny gestation crates.
MFA has urged JBS to address the widespread mistreatment of animals in the industry immediately. The group highlights several countries and major food companies' positive steps to end these inhumane practices.
Animal rights advocates emphasize that pigs and other animals raised for human consumption are not mere commodities for profit but possess intelligence, emotions, and individual personalities. These advocates argue that recognizing the sentience of these animals should lead to more ethical treatment and a reevaluation of our relationship with them. The psychological toll on slaughterhouse workers, who witness the horrors of the industry, is also highlighted, with studies linking slaughterhouse work to PTSD and other disorders.
In a more ethical food system, consumers would consider not just “what” but also “who” is on their dinner plate. We can make more compassionate choices when we recognize the emotional lives of nonhuman animals and that each animal experiences life as an individual with a unique personality. Advocates emphasize the need for systemic change and encourage individuals to think about the consequences of their food choices.
The undercover investigation at Tosh Farms has exposed the cruelty inflicted on animals within the JBS supply chain. The shocking footage and revelations have prompted calls for immediate action to end animal abuse and implement more ethical practices. Recognizing the sentience of animals and considering the well-being of both animals and workers can help shape a more compassionate and sustainable food system for the future.
🔭 This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.
