Future cattle production: Animal welfare as a critical component of sustainability and beef quality, a South American perspective

The demand for animal protein is rising, increasing pressure on animal production systems and ecological resources. Ethical and environmental concerns are also growing worldwide, pushing for more sustainable food production systems. The international scientific community has raised concerns about misinformation regarding meat production processes and their harmful impact on the environment, animal welfare and human health consumption. It is crucial to provide accurate information based on science, implement an active communication strategy, and foster collaboration across the meat supply chain to demonstrate that livestock farming is part of the solution to climate change and sustainability issues. As a fundamental pillar of sustainability, animal welfare plays a crucial role in this scrutiny. The “social license to farm” hinges on animal welfare issues and those related to climate change, the environment and biodiversity. Animal welfare is gaining relevance in the market of farm animals and their products, shaping a nation's standing in the international community. Considering the potential advantages of the Southern cone of South America production systems regarding sustainability and animal welfare, several countries prioritise them in their science, technology transfer, innovation, and public policy agendas. Scientific research indicates that implementing effective animal handling and welfare practices has a demonstrably positive impact on individual animal temperament, the quality of the human-animal relationship, overall productivity, and meat quality while reducing the risks of accidents. Caring for the welfare of animals is not only a moral imperative but can also be a business decision that benefits all stakeholders.