Many people know that eggs can be produced in cages, in barns, in free-range and organic systems. Egg packs have to be labelled accordingly. Perhaps fewer people know that both pigs and chickens are reared in a similar range of systems. Milk is also produced in fully-indoor, free-range and organic systems.

Compassion in World Farming provides stimulus materials which demonstrate these systems and which are designed to engage students and encourage discussion of the issues that arise.

Films to demonstrate systems and animal behaviours:

Farm Animals & Us – 17 minute film demonstrates a range of systems, intensive, higher welfare, free-range and organic from a welfare point of view, encouraging students to explore the choices they can make as consumers and citizens
Farm Animals & Us 2 – 25 minute film covers the same issues in more depth for abler students
A Life Worth Living – 5 minute film with five short sections of positive animal behaviour without commentary to encourage observation and discussion for all ages

Activities to stimulate thought and discussion:

White striping practical – why do so many chicken breasts have white stripes? Case study to help students understand the advantages and disadvantages of selective breeding and its ethical implications.
How Should We Treat Farm Animals? – small group discussion activity which encourages students to consider tzzhe pros and cons of different systems for producing meat, milk and eggs including organic, free-range and intensive
Personality Test – an engaging activity which encourages students to explore their viewpoints about ethical issues around food production, animal welfare, sustainability and food security and to understand better the different opinions of others

Free resources for food technology