A concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO), often referred to in agricultural contexts, is an animal feeding operation (AFO) in which over a thousand animal units are confined for over 45 days per year. These facilities are land areas where livestock are densely housed and fed manufactured feed, rather than grazing in pastures. A typical example involves the raising of cattle in large numbers, quickly and efficiently, to meet high consumer demand for beef products.
This method of animal husbandry offers economic advantages, such as increased production efficiency and lower costs for consumers. Concentrating livestock allows for streamlined feeding, monitoring, and processing. Historically, such operations became more prevalent as demand for meat increased and agricultural practices intensified to maximize yield from available land. However, this practice generates concerns regarding animal welfare, potential for environmental pollution from concentrated waste, and the impact on land use.
