To the Editor:
While reading recent coverage about the new Aldi that opened up on Monroe Turnpike, I realized there’s something important readers should know: Aldi has some of the lowest animal welfare standards of any grocery store in the United States.
Aldi still buys from farms that keep hens in cages so small they can’t spread their wings, and where pregnant pigs spend their lives in cages so cramped they can’t even turn around. In these cages, called “gestation crates,” pigs often develop pressure sores and lesions and bang their heads against the bars from distress and boredom. Hens endure similar suffering, forced to stand on harsh wire flooring that damages their feet, often living alongside the bodies of dead cage-mates.
Other grocers, like Costco and Stop & Shop have moved away from these practices, but Aldi appears to have no plans to follow suit. As for cage-free eggs, Aldi has not reported any progress on its commitment. Unfortunately, it seems Aldi’s low prices come with a big animal cruelty caveat, but as its competitors have shown, that doesn’t have to be the case.
Aldi is praised for its animal welfare standards in its home country of Germany, having banned cages years ago. Yet, it hasn’t done the same in the U.S., despite consumer concerns. Why should Americans accept lower standards?
If you think this is unacceptable, you’re not alone—11 U.S. states have voted to restrict gestation crates and 10 states have banned cages for hens. I’m hoping one day our great state of Connecticut will be on those lists. Until then, corporations like Aldi still have a responsibility to do better and ensure animals in its supply chain are treated more humanely. As for me, I’m skipping on Aldi and staying with Stop & Shop.
Lynne Gomez,
Ridgefield
