The well-being of workers in the beef production system is a key component of its social sustainability. Feedlot workers, who are responsible for the care and management of cattle, play a crucial role in animal welfare, but their perspectives have gone largely understudied. To gain insight into their views, 95 focus groups and interviews were conducted with feedlot workers to explore their thoughts on job satisfaction, training, animal well-being, and work community. Feedlot workers expressed pride in their roles and highlighted the importance of their contributions to cattle care. Many emphasized the need for and importance of continuous improvement in their practices, particularly in areas such as cattle stockmanship, veterinary care, and cattle housing. The study also revealed that effective communication, proper resources, and support systems are essential for maintaining a positive work environment. Overall, feedlot workers offer valuable insights that can help improve both worker and animal welfare, making their perspectives crucial for fostering more sustainable beef production systems.

Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.