New UC Davis study claims Prop 2 is good for consumers
Study's co-author agrees that caged hens suffer
Published on Jul 24, 2008 - 10:57:05 AM

By: Californians for Humane Farms

July 23, 2008 - A study produced by UC Davis researchers and released yesterday provides further evidence that Proposition 2 is good for California consumers. The study, which was reportedly funded by the American Egg Board, evaluated the economic impact of Prop 2, the Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act, which will appear on the statewide ballot in November.

According to the study's authors, "little, if any cost increase and no substantial impact on prices to California consumers" will occur when voters approve Prop 2. The measure would prevent the cruel and inhumane confinement of calves raised for veal, breeding pigs, and egg-laying hens kept in crates and cages so small they cannot lie down, turn around, or extend their limbs. Prop 2 is endorsed by leading organizations including the Center for Food Safety, the Consumer Federation of America, The Humane Society of the United States, and the California Veterinary Medical Association.

This latest study also affirms the previous estimate by a California-based poultry economist, who has written that raising egg-laying hens in "cage-free" facilities costs less than a penny per egg more than cramming them into tiny cages. The UC researchers estimate that the cost differential is even less than this previous claim.

"Even though the researchers are aligned with and funded by opponents of Prop 2, their work confirms that consumers won't pay higher prices as a result of the measure," said Jennifer Fearing, campaign manager for the Yes on 2 campaign. "The latest Field Poll shows nearly two-thirds of California voters support Prop 2-a wider margin of support than any other initiative on November's ballot."

In addition, at least one of the study's authors has been instrumental in bringing to light the cruelty of the current extreme confinement systems. UC Davis professor Joy Mench has published and co-authored a number of peer-reviewed articles and books describing the poor welfare of battery-caged egg-laying hens. Among Dr. Mench's previous writings published with esteemed co-authors:

* "...conventional battery cages must restrict freedom of movement... No other poultry production system is so restrictive of movement as battery cages."

* "...60-80 square inches per hen [provides] barely enough [room] for the hen to turn around and not enough for her to perform normal comfort behaviors; however, many hens are allowed less than even that meager amount."

* "...conventional cages for laying hens have pervasive problems for welfare."

* "Battery cages provide an inadequate environment for nesting..."

"Prop 2 is good for animals and good for California," added Fearing. "That's why it is supported by consumer advocates, veterinarians, family farmers, and businesses. All animals deserve humane treatment, including animals raised for food. It's just the right thing to do."

For more information about the Yes on Prop 2 campaign and to see a complete list of endorsers, please visit YESonProp2.com.

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