Brazil Bans Foie Gras Production and Sale

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has signed a law prohibiting the production, import, and sale of foie gras nationwide, one of the strictest measures against the delicacy. Foie gras, made from the enlarged liver of force-fed ducks or geese, has faced growing criticism over animal cruelty. The law follows similar restrictions in about twenty countries, including Germany, the UK, and Italy, which ban production but allow sales. India has also banned both production and sales since 2014. Foie gras remains a symbol of French gastronomy, protected by law since 2006, but its reputation is declining due to public awareness and protests. In China, however, foie gras has become popular and affordable, with an industry rivaling France's. The force-feeding process, called gavage, causes liver steatosis, respiratory issues, and increased mortality rates of 2-6%.