One of the Problems With Cattle

The Humane Slaughter Act of 1958 was an important movement in the cattle industry. The act required farmers to treat their cattle more humanely at the time of their death. This included animals being “stunned into unconsciousness prior to their slaughter to ensure a quick, relatively painless death” (Humane 3). People were concerned with what was happening to the animals they were eating, prior to be being on their plate. The cattle industry took notice of this change and began moving towards different advertising strategies. In 1978 the Humane Slaughter Act was reformed, and the movement towards different advertising for cattle continued. The reformation called for even stricter humane requirements of cattle.
Consumers that helped the act become reformed wanted the healthiest meat possible, while still protecting the animals. Advertising and marketing for cattle pushed the labels of “organic” and “free-range” farms on these caring consumers. The advertisements lead consumers to believe that the products with these labels mean the meat is healthier, because it is hormone free. Also, consumers believe it is better for the animals since they are raised on a “free-range” farm. Neither of these beliefs are actually true. However, the cattle companies are doing nothing to correct the image of “healthier” or “safer” meat, because they are making a large profit.