According to an article on Natural Choices, The Association states that
this study showed that 23.4% of farms with caged hens tested positive for
salmonella compared to 4.4% in organic flocks and 6.5% in free-range
flocks.
The research also apparently showed that the highest prevalence of
salmonella occurred in the largest holding size category (>30,000 birds).
This was over four times the average level of salmonella found in flocks closer
to the maximum size allowed under Soil Association organic standards.
"This research confirms the Soil Association's view that there are serious
potential human health implications from such intensive systems. Whilst
Salmonella food poisoning can be avoided through proper cooking of eggs and
meat, anything that reduces the incidence of this bug should be encouraged -
like genuine free-range, organic farming,†said Emma Hockridge, Soil Association
policy department.
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