Do citizens and farmers interpret the concept of farm animal welfare differently?

摘要

This study compared the perceptions of farmers and consumers relating to the welfare of livestock animals. A detailed insight into the way in which the multi-dimensional concept of farm animal welfare is valued by citizens and farmers was obtained in Flanders, Belgium, during 2006. Citizens tended to perceive the current state of animal welfare as something of a problem, whereas greater satisfaction was expressed by farmers. Differences in opinion were observed concerning the ability of animals to engage in natural behaviour, particularly in relation to pain, stress and the availability of space. Some aspects of production and processing also led to differences of opinion.