Last week, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) reignited a 20-year-old controversy by posting a video on Instagram that accuses employees of Butterball, a major turkey producer, of sexually abusing turkeys. The video garnered significant attention online, particularly as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches.
In the description accompanying the video, PETA posed the question, “Do you know what happened to your Butterball turkey before they were killed?” The video has prompted many commenters to express concern for the welfare of the animals, with some asking what actions can be taken to address the alleged abuse.
Butterball quickly responded to the resurfaced video, clarifying that it was recorded in 2006, before the company transitioned to private ownership and before they became certified by American Humane. A Butterball representative stated that animal care is a central principle for the company, asserting their commitment to the ethical treatment of turkeys and noting that they undergo annual third-party audits to ensure adherence to over 200 science-based animal care standards.
The video’s revival has led some social media users to accuse PETA of disseminating outdated and misleading information. Meanwhile, Butterball also addressed rumors of a product recall, confirming that no recalls are currently active.
In an ongoing effort to raise awareness, PETA plans to confront Thanksgiving shoppers with its “Hell on Wheels” mobile exhibit, which features a life-size turkey transport truck designed to depict the harsh realities such birds face before slaughter. This initiative, which will travel across 30 states, aims to encourage consumers to forgo turkey this Thanksgiving in favor of plant-based alternatives.
In an encouraging shift, surveys indicate that approximately 29% of Americans are considering plant-based options for their Thanksgiving meals this year. Shoppers seeking vegan alternatives can explore products like Tofurky’s holiday roast or try out recipes shared by influencers, which present delicious vegan dishes suitable for the holiday feast.
This story highlights the evolving conversation around animal welfare in the food industry and the growing trend towards plant-based eating during traditional celebrations. As more individuals consider the ethical implications of their food choices, it opens the door for a more compassionate approach to holiday meals.