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San Francisco (September 15, 2017) - In Defense of Animals has welcomed news that the U.S 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has justly restored the California foie gras ban. The ban was initially passed in response to public outcry over cruel methods used to farm geese for foie gras, and many years of campaigning by In Defense of Animals and other animal activists. 

“We are thrilled on behalf of animals and the public that California’s landmark foie gras ban has been upheld after many years of campaigning,” said Marilyn Kroplick M.D., President of In Defense Of Animals. “Foie gras farms are little more than animal torture chambers. We encourage other states to follow California’s lead and reject institutionalized animal cruelty.” 

U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Harry Pregerson ruled in favor of restoring California’s foie gras sales ban, stating, "Do you think the duck enjoys that? I think it is absolutely cruel. The people don't agree with it." 

Foie gras, which is French for "fatty liver," is produced by pushing metal pipes down the throats of ducks and geese who are force-fed several times a day until they become sick. They are then killed for their grossly swollen livers to be made into foie gras pate. 

The passage of California’s statewide foie gras ban has been long and complex - 

February 2004:

Senate President John Burton introduces a bill banning the force-feeding of birds for the purpose of producing foie gras within California, and also prohibits the selling of the product within the state. 

September 2004:

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signs into law a ban on the sale and production of foie gras starting in 2012, to give foie gras farmers time to transition. 

July 2012:

California’s foie gras production and sales ban takes effect. Within days, a lawsuit is filed by restaurant and duck farming groups in District Court seeking to lift the ban. 

January 2015:

District court Judge Stephen Wilson lifts California's sales ban of on the grounds that it interferes with federal law which “regulates” poultry products and trumps state regulations. The production ban remains in place. 

February 2016:

California Attorney General Kamala Harris files an appeal to restore California's foie gras sales ban. 

September 2017:

U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Harry Pregerson rules in favor of restoring California’s foie gras sales ban. 

Discover delicious ways to swap-out animal products. 

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In Defense of Animals is an international animal protection organization with over 250,000 supporters and a 30-year history of fighting for animals, people and the environment through education, campaigns and hands on rescue facilities in India, Africa, and rural Mississippi.

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