concentrated animal feeding operation

agriculture

Also known as: CAFO

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 22, 2026

Quick Summary

A Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) is an agricultural facility where a large number of animals are housed and fed in a confined area for at least 45 days within a 12-month period. These operations are also known as intensive animal farming or factory farms.123

CAFOs are designed to maximize output while minimizing space and resource use. Animals commonly raised in this manner include cattle, pigs, and poultry. They are typically confined in warehouses, barns, or open-air feedlots, with food brought to them rather than allowing them to graze. This system allows for lower operating costs and higher profits due to the sheer quantity of animals housed.2

While intensive animal farming can lead to lower consumer prices and a consistent supply of products, it also raises concerns regarding antibiotic resistance, animal welfare, and environmental impacts such as air and water pollution.2

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

5 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

feedlot
…operations are referred to as concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). In 2018 there were roughly 27,000 feedlots in the United States, accounting for about 25 million animals. Although the majority of North American feedlots manage fewer than 100 head of cattle, more than 75 percent of all cattle come from…
Read More
…operations are referred to as concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). In 2018 there were roughly 27,000 feedlots in the United States, accounting for about 25 million animals. Although the majority of North American feedlots manage fewer than 100 head of cattle, more than 75 percent of all cattle come from…
Read More