Perception of animal welfare and its certification system by Brazilian consumers and dairy farmers

Abstract

The practices adopted in dairy farms can positively or negatively affect the perception of consumers. To meet consumer expectations and improve the productivity of dairy farms, a welfare certification system has recently been initiated in Brazil. In this research communication we describe the perceptions of Brazilian consumers and farmers regarding the implementation of welfare certification systems and the most common practices that affect animal welfare on dairy farms. For this purpose, two semi-structured questionnaires were used: one applied to 409 consumers and the other to 158 dairy farmers. The results demonstrate that consumers are concerned with the adoption of welfare practices in animal husbandry at dairy farms, mainly on topics related to movement restriction and cow-calf separation. Thus, the majority of consumers state that they are willing to pay more for welfare-certified dairy products. In addition, most dairy farmers are interested in adopting a welfare certification system, especially if it could add value to the raw milk sold to industries. Veterinarians and animal scientists are important for disseminating animal welfare recommendations, and the consequences of its improper adoption need to be emphasized. Finally, dairy farms need improvements regarding environmental hygiene, thermal conditions, animal husbandry, health, and milking processes. In conclusion, consumers and farmers are interested in welfare systems and their certification, and there is a need for stakeholders to make welfare certification a reality in the Brazilian dairy supply chain.

Exploring Consumers’ Perception of Farm Animal Welfare in Muar, Johor

“…Research has indicated that consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about the well-being of farm animals and are interested in making choices that align with their personal values (Alonso et Kjaernes et al, 2022). These concerns are not limited to specific regions, as shown by research conducted in various countries including China (You et al, 2014), Australia (Fleming et al, 2020), Italy (Rubini et al, 2021), Brazil (Comin et al, 2022), Turkey (Kiliç & Bozkurt, 2020) Moreover, studies have emphasized the necessity of training courses to alter farmers' attitudes and behaviors towards animal welfare, hence highlighting the crucial role of farmers in ensuring farm animal welfare standards (Hubbard et al, 2007;Kling-Eveillard et al, 2007). Consumers' consideration of animal welfare while making purchases has been associated with other factors, including price, provenance, and tenderness of the goods (Pejman et al, 2019).…”

Percepção do bem-estar animal na produção de ovos no Brasil

“…de leite e derivados (COMIN et al, 2022;KITANO;MITSUNARI;YOSHINO, 2022;NASPETTI et al, 2021;OWUSU-SEKYERE;HANSSON;TELEZHENKO, 2021;SIROVICA et al, 2022;WOLF et al, 2016;) e ovos (abordados à frente).…”