Article

How are livestocks raised?

Livestock Organic agriculture includes crop and livestock systems as well as fish farming systems. Organic livestock production emphasizes a proactive health management programme that addresses environmental factors to reduce stress and prevent disease. Most organic livestock standards require that animals have access to adequate space, fresh air, outdoors, daylight, shade, and shelter for inclement weather, suitable to the species and climatic conditions. Standards require a balanced nutritional programme using primarily organic feeds. Generally, in Argentina, Australia and North America, 100 percent organic feed is required. Under IFOAM, Asian, and current EU standards, only 80 percent of the feed, or less, must be organic (the percentage of organic feed is gradually being increased, according to the standards of the region).
The sources and types of feed supplements and feed additives allowed are defined in the standards, with emphasis placed on naturally mined, botanical, and biological substances. Standards in Argentina, Australia and North America require that organic livestock be managed organically from the last third of gestation of the mother, or at least from birth. Asian and European standards currently allow animals to come from non-organic sources at different ages, depending on the species.
Synthetic health care inputs are generally prohibited or restricted. Some certification bodies and national standards prohibit the use of antibiotics (animals or their products must be sold on the conventional market if antibiotics are used), while others specify a withholding period, usually double or triple the label requirement, before the animal or its products can be sold as organic. Vaccinations are generally allowed, with some restrictions. Growth promoters and hormones are generally prohibited.
Some physical alterations, such as beak trimming, are prohibited by some certification bodies, while allowed by others, if the practice is done to improve or maintain the health and safety of the animal. Castration and dehorning are typically allowed. Animals are to be handled humanely during transport and slaughter. Records must be kept of: livestock sources; feed and feed supplements; medications/ parasiticides; health management; production; and sales.