Target: Sheri Flies, Senior Vice President, Global Sustainability and Compliance, Costco
Goal: Prevent sickening cruelty towards chickens at “organic” farms in Costco’s supply chain.
A recent investigation has revealed shocking and disturbing allegations against a USDA-certified organic chicken farm supplying Costco, raising serious concerns about animal welfare in the company’s supply chain. Graphic reports detail that chickens were beaten with sticks, bludgeoned with pipes, and left to suffer among the bodies of their deceased flockmates. This exposes an apparent significant gap between what the organic label promises and the reality of how these animals are treated. Birds bred to be encouraged to grow unnaturally fast were seemingly shown to struggle, collapsing under their own weight and being unable to access food and water, all while marketed as “organic.”
Further allegations indicate that baby chicks were crushed and buried alive, with some still chirping beneath piles of compost, resulting in a horrific level of suffering that no animal should endure. The investigation allegedly revealed that this farm, which houses up to 520,000 chickens at a time, consistently failed to meet not only humane standards but also basic USDA organic requirements, posing potential public health risks that concern consumers and advocates alike.
In light of these allegations, it is imperative to call for immediate action. Costco, as a leading retailer with significant consumer trust, has a responsibility to ensure humane treatment and animal welfare standards in their supply chain. Stronger, enforceable protocols need to be implemented to protect the animals that provide food for consumers. This includes adopting proven measures such as raising breeds that grow at a healthier rate, improving housing conditions, and enhancing oversight of farming practices. It is time to demand accountability and integrity in the food system.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear VP Flies,
A recent investigation by Mercy For Animals has uncovered deeply troubling and disturbing allegations regarding the treatment of chickens on a USDA-certified organic farm that supplies Costco. Reports indicate that these animals were subjected to horrific cruelty, including being beaten and bludgeoned, and left to suffer in dismal conditions. Furthermore, chickens bred for unnatural growth rates reportedly collapsed under their own weight, unable to access food and water, raising serious questions about the integrity of the USDA organic label.
The apparent suffering documented in this investigation cannot be overlooked. By implementing stronger, enforceable animal welfare standards, including healthier breeding practices and better living conditions, Costco can significantly reduce suffering and demonstrate true accountability to its customers.
We urge you to take meaningful steps to ensure that the products sold under the Costco label adhere to high standards of animal welfare. It is essential to provide transparency and integrity in your farming practices, reflecting the values of your consumers who wish for a food system built on truth and compassion.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
