Factory Farm Fire

The minimal animal-welfare standards and cramped conditions of factory farms ensures a terrible life for animals, and when it comes to fast-spreading disease or—in this case—fire, these facilities are a deathtrap. Last Thursday, July 9, a fire caused the death of about 800,000 chickens at Cal-Maine Foods in Parmer County, Texas. The chickens were in five houses, and flames engulfed four laying houses while smoke inhalation was the cause of death for chickens in the fifth house. The cause of the fire is uncertain, but an investigation is taking place to determine the fire’s origin. Cal-Maine produces the largest amount of shell eggs in the US, and while the company has suffered some financial loss, it’s important to consider the unfortunate loss of life as well.