ABSTRACT
Animal production systems have always evolved to meet market demand, with a focus on the lowest possible production cost. Recently demand has been increasing for poultry meat, at the expense of other meat types, creating an increasingly intensive meat production industry worldwide. We discuss the historical and current trends towards intensification as well as potential transitions in food systems that may allow for better animal welfare and reduced animal ethics problems. Welfare and other problems associated with intensive animal production are increasingly encouraging consumers to look for alternatives, such as those arising from processed plant products or cultured animal tissue. Continued transition away from conventional meats and milks to alternatives is anticipated.
