Many things have been done to use animals for profit. Selective breeding, cloning and slaughtering are just some of the ways that animals, particularly farm animals, are used without so much as a "thank you" or "sorry". Every year there are billions of animals who suffer brutal punishment by their would-be friend - man. At least 10 billion animals are slaughtered each year in the United States. The most common way is by stunning first, then cutting the neck. Some experts say that when animals are stunned, they don’t become unconscious immediately and they do feel pain, especially if the procedure isn't done properly. The meat we eat When animals are given high doses of antibiotics, pesticide residues, growth hormones and other harmful chemicals, these often remain in the meat that we eat. This affects those who eat it. Many meats are also high in cholesterol and saturated fats. This increases our chance of getting type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. During slaughtering, there is a risk of feces contaminating the meat. When you cook, carefully clean all knives, counters, etc. that come in contact with raw meat. Another thing that may cause human illness is that many animals are raised in overcrowded factories. Besides being unnatural and cruel for millions of animals, this also harms the environment - and our health - by releasing mass manure onto the land, spoiling the air, and polluting waters. When waters are polluted by released manure it results in red tide, which harms shellfish, fish and even humans who swim in the polluted waters. A better way to eat Ways to reduce our consumption of animal meat include mixing small amounts of meat with vegetables or whole grains. Also, you can help this cause by buying organic and free range products, which are healthier for you, the animals, farm workers and the environment. More on the Environment and What You Can Do by Denessa Bachelor, Hearts
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