LIVINGSTON, CALIF. — Animal rights group Animal Outlook announced on Oct. 7 that it released footage of animal cruelty occurring at a Foster Farms facility in California. A couple of days later Foster Farms informed the public that it had already taken immediate action, beginning four weeks ago, in response to the situation.

“Four weeks ago, Foster Farms uncovered a few employees had intentionally violated our animal welfare and training standards and procedures,” said Randy Boyce, general counsel for Foster Farms. “Per our zero-tolerance policy, we immediately terminated those involved and referred them to Fresno County law enforcement, where they will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Put simply, the conduct was counter to everything we stand for as a company, and our actions ensure those responsible are held accountable.”

While the conduct was limited to a few individuals, Foster Farms said it will implement additional animal welfare practices as a safeguard against repeated violations in the future. Additional protections include:

• An immediate, companywide animal welfare retraining on all ranches and in all plants.
• The expansion of Foster Farms’ animal welfare team with the creation of a new role — chief animal welfare officer.
• The creation of additional animal welfare director roles onsite covering each Foster Farms complex.
• Increased frequency of animal welfare audits, particularly in live operation facilities.
• Increased Professional Animal Auditor Certified (PAACO) staff.

Animal Outlook’s footage, although announced on Oct. 7, was originally posted a month ago. The group claims to have had acquired the footage by one of its “investigators,” who worked on a chicken catching crew at Foster Farms in June and July.

The video depicts workers throwing birds, kicking them and driving over them with a forklift. All actions contrary to Foster Farms’ animal welfare policy.