The swine flu pandemic probably started in an intensive pork-production unit, where pigs are ‘grown’ for their meat.  The cramped conditions and unnatural practices in factory farms provide the ideal breeding ground for diseases such as BSE, avian flu, swine flu and MRSA [1].

These diseases can then be transmitted to humans [2].

The Vegan Society [3] proposes that intensive animal-farming units be closed down.  Stopping the use of animals for food altogether would be even better.  This would solve a major cause of serious transmissible diseases.  By choosing to move to a plant-based diet we should also be better placed to feed the growing human population.  This is because eating plant foods direct uses less grain, soya and water than eating it through an animal.

Information contact:

info@vegansociety.com – 0121 523 1735/6 – www.vegansociety.com

Media contact: 

Amanda Baker:  media@vegansociety.com – 07847 664793 – 0121 523 1737  

Notes for Editors:

1. Cóilín Nunan and Richard Young, MRSA in farm animals and meat, a new threat to human health, the use and misuse of antibiotics in UK agriculture http://www.soilassociation.org/Web/SA/saweb.nsf/89d058cc4dbeb16d80256a73005a2866/5cae3a9c3b4da4b880257305002daadf/$FILE/MRSA%20report.pdf (accessed 30 April 2009)

2. Gray G. C., Kayali G. Facing pandemic influenza threats:  the importance of including poultry and swine workers in preparedness plans.  Poultry Science 2009; 88: 880–4 http://ps.fass.org/cgi/content/abstract/88/4/880 (abstract accessed 30 April 2009)

3. Founded in 1944, The Vegan Society promotes vegan lifestyles – which exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of animals for food, clothing or any other purpose.  Registered Charity No 279228,  Company Registration No 1468880, VAT Registration No 448 5973 95