Layoffs in the Factory Farm Industry

The meat industry is taking some hits as a result of high commodity and energy costs. Smithfield Foods, the largest pork producer, will be closing six factories and laying off 1800 people by the end of December reports Yahoo News. Pilgrim's Pride, the nation's largest chicken producer, is in the throes of bankruptcy while Tyson foods, which tops the global charts in overall meat production, is experiencing declines in its poultry line.

A Grist article on Pilgrim's Pride demonstrates the vulnerability of factory farmers. The poultry giant is breaking contracts with hundreds of CAFO operators in the Southeast. The industrial operators are left holding huge mortgages with empty chicken houses.