California’s Proposition 12 has generated widespread controversy and pushback among those involved in the egg and meat trades. A state ballot initiative passed by California voters in 2018, the second phase of the law is set to begin on January 1, 2022.
Under the law, veal calf producers are required to provide their animals with at least 43 square feet of usable floor space per calf. For hog producers, sows must have a minimum of 24 square feet of usable space per animal. Laying hens are required to be cage-free. Proposition 12 prohibits the sale in California of veal, pork, and eggs not raised in compliance with these regulations. This could have ripple effects for producers and consumers across the nation, leaving many anxiously awaiting what the New Year will spell.
For the veal industry, “animal wellbeing is our top priority,” said Dale Bakke, President of the American Veal Association (AVA).
“The care, handling, nutrition, and housing are all done to ensure calves remain healthy, grow and thrive. That has been, and will continue to be, a priority for AVA members who raise formula-fed veal. Regulatory mandates calling for a 43 square feet minimum floor space are unnecessary and are not supported by science-based facts.”
