The United States livestock industry is one of the most important components of US agriculture. However, its enormous size did not occur quickly. Livestock producers continued to revolutionize their methods of producing meat by making it more economical for the consumer. This has allowed them to hold a larger share in the agricultural market, thus making them an important component. While their revolutionary methods were good for the consumer, they were bad for livestock. Livestock have been subjected to unnatural environments and husbandry techniques such as growth hormones, harsh environments and unhealthy nutrition. To counter these negative aspects, farmers have started raising livestock using organic methods instead of the conventional methods used in factory farming. According to the USDA, livestock raised by organic farmers is any livestock “raised to accommodate their natural year-round health and behavior” (“Organic Livestock Requirements”). Organic livestock is better than factory-farmed livestock because organic farmers subject livestock to a natural lifestyle while factory farmers subject livestock to an industrialized lifestyle. In order for a farm to receive organic certification, it must comply with the rigorous regulations set by the United States. United States Department of Agriculture. The certification standards concern: living conditions and nutrition. If a farmer complies with these regulations, they can label and sell their food as organic. In contrast, “local regulations regarding factory farming vary,” depending on the county (“Legislation”). Counties that do not have factory farming regulations have very little control over farms. Farmers are able to raise livestock however the meat is produced... middle of paper... by Congress. Even though organic livestock is better than factory farming, there has not been a significant change in consumer purchasing habits. True, the organic industry is growing, but the factory farming sector has not declined significantly. Consumers still purchase large quantities of inorganic burgers and chicken from fast food restaurants. In order for consumers to provide a better quality of life for their livestock and themselves, they must change their spending habits and get the attention of our regulators. Society must “vote with its fork” and let our parliaments know that the meat industry must be reformed, one animal at a time. As Mahatma Gandhi said best: “Be the change you want to see.” If we want to see change for the better, we need to speak out now and not remain silent as we have for so long. I leave the choice up to you.