New York Times: When Food Kills

This editorial by Nicholas Kristof presents a compelling argument against factory farming -- our standard means for producing eggs, dairy, and meat in this country. The horrendously dangerous practices used in factory farming are yet another reason why our culture would benefit from an increase in urban-appropriate Food Producing Animals in our backyards.

Strangely, some of the most virulent opponents of progressive Food Producing Animals policies are supposed animal-rights vegans. Yet, as Kristof points out, the dangers of factory farming don't only affect those that eat eggs, dairy, or meat. The recent E. coli tragedy in Germany was traced back to organic bean sprouts, and the alarming increase in MRSA affects us all.

"We would never think of trying to keep our children healthy by adding antibiotics to school water fountains, because we know this would breed antibiotic-resistant bacteria. It's unconscionable that Big Ag does something similar for livestock."

This is a must-read -- click here for the full editorial.