Factory Farming

Definition of Factory Farming

Factory farming is a system of intensive livestock production in which large numbers of animals are raised in highly controlled environments to maximise efficiency, output, and economic return. It typically relies on standardised housing, mechanised feeding, specialised breeds, and tightly managed production cycles.

Within agriculture, factory farming is characterised by its emphasis on scale, productivity, and cost efficiency, often using advanced technologies, formulated feeds, and strict management protocols to produce meat, dairy, or eggs at high volumes.

Why Factory Farming Matters

Factory farming matters because it plays a significant role in global food production, while also raising important questions about sustainability, animal welfare, and environmental impact. Its relevance includes:

• Supplying affordable animal protein to growing populations

• Improving production efficiency through controlled systems

• Reducing land requirements per unit of output compared to extensive systems

• Creating economic value and employment within agri-food supply chains

• Contributing to environmental and welfare debates around intensive agriculture

Understanding factory farming is essential for informed discussions about the future of food systems and livestock production models.

Key Characteristics of Factory Farming

• High Stocking Density – Large numbers of animals housed in confined spaces

• Controlled Environments – Regulated temperature, lighting, and ventilation

• Specialised Feeding Systems – Use of formulated rations for rapid growth or production

• Standardised Management – Uniform practices across large-scale operations

• Reliance on Technology – Automation, monitoring systems, and data-driven management

• Biosecurity Measures – Controls to limit disease introduction and spread

Related Terms

• Livestock Management

• Intensive Agriculture

• Animal Welfare

• Biosecurity

• Feed Efficiency

• Sustainable Livestock

Useful Resources on Factory Farming

Explore these authoritative resources to learn more about intensive livestock systems, their impacts, and policy frameworks:

• FAO – Livestock Production Systems – Overview of intensive and extensive livestock models.

• Compassion in World Farming - Campaign and reasons to end factory farming.

• Our World in Data – Meat, Dairy and Farming Systems – Data on production efficiency and environmental trade-offs.

• Gov.UK – Intensive Farming and Animal Welfare (UK) – UK regulations and guidance.

• European Commission – Animal Welfare and Farming Systems – EU policy on intensive livestock systems.

• USDA – Animal Production and Management – Research and guidance on large-scale livestock systems.

• AGRIS – Livestock Systems Research Database – Peer-reviewed studies on farming models.

• World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) – Welfare standards applicable to intensive systems.

• World Animal Protection - tackling the root causes of animal exploitation and abuse.