Takoma Park, MD Opposing Force Feeding Ducks and Geese for Foie Gras

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Takoma Park, MD, US

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Type: Resolution

Status: Adopted on 6/30/08

Source File: http://www.takomaparkmd.gov/clerk/resolutions/2008/r200849.pdf

Text:

RESOLUTION 2008-49
OPPOSING THE ABUSIVE FACTORY FARMING PRACTICE OF FORCE FEEDING DUCKS AND GEESE FOR FOIE GRAS

WHEREAS, “foie gras,” or fattened liver, is a food item made from the livers of overfed ducks and geese. Foie gras production involves force-feeding ducks and geese by placing a tube down their throats and pumping large quantities of food directly into them, causing their livers to become diseased and swell up to ten times the normal size; and

WHEREAS, many experts from around the world have concluded that force-feeding causes pain and suffering, and that this practice is detrimental to the welfare of the birds; and

WHEREAS, the state of California passed a law, to become effective in 2012, making it illegal to sell or produce foie gras, and more than a dozen countries have banned its production; and

WHEREAS, a 2004 Zogby International poll of American adults revealed that 77% agreed that the process of force-feeding ducks and geese in order to produce foie gras should be banned by law in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Whole Foods Market has indicated that it will not sell foie gras, and hundreds of restaurants nationwide have either voluntarily removed foie gras from their menus or pledged to not sell foie gras; and

WHEREAS, virtually all animal protection organizations recognize foie gras as inherently cruel, including Takoma Park-based Compassion Over Killing.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of the City of Takoma Park, Maryland, opposes the production and sale of foie gras; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the City Council encourages Takoma Park residents not to buy foie gras in order to avoid supporting this extreme form of animal cruelty.