LTE: Cage-free foods benefit animals and consumers

In response to “Proposed ban on caged foods meets industry opposition,” studies published in trade publications for the pork and egg industries have found that raising animals in cage-free facilities costs about the same as confining them in tiny metal cages. In addition, science — and common sense — tell us that it’s cruel to lock any animal in a cage so small she can barely move.

That’s why I am glad that we will have a chance in the election next year to require farmers to go cage-free. (The vast majority of Massachusetts farms already are.)

It’s important to note that prohibiting the use of these cages isn’t just good for animals; it’s also good for consumers. Because animals who can hardly move typically are stressed and have weakened immune systems, their meat and eggs are more likely to be contaminated with E. coli, salmonella and other harmful bacteria. Massachusetts should proudly vote “yes” on this measure in 2016.

Chris Fuccione

Salem

The writer is the New England coordinator of World Events Against Animal Cruelty.