Veal is the meat of young cattle typically calves less than eight months old. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) notes that most veal calves in the United States are male dairy calves who are taken from their mothers shortly after birth.
The calves are confined to crates or pens where they are unable to move freely. According to the HSUS this confinement ensures the meat remains tender. The calves are fed a diet that is low in iron and other essential nutrients in order to keep their flesh pale in color.
Veal production is a controversial practice due to the confined conditions in which the animals are kept and the lack of exercise and nutrients in their diet. Some animal welfare advocates argue that veal production is cruel and should be stopped. Others argue that the practice can be humane if the animals are well-cared for and given enough space to move around.
In the United States veal calves were traditionally slaughtered at around 16 weeks of age. However the HSUS reports that some veal producers have begun raising the animals for longer periods of time up to 20 weeks. This change is in response to consumer demand for humanely raised veal.
The legs shoulders and loins of the animal are used to make cuts of veal. The meat is typically sold as roasts chops or ground veal. It can also be used in stews casseroles and other dishes.
Veal has been a part of European cuisine for centuries. It is a popular dish in Italy France and other countries. In the United States veal was traditionally considered a luxury item and was more expensive than other types of beef.
Today veal is still more expensive than other types of beef but it is more widely available. Some supermarkets and butcher shops carry veal and it can also be ordered from specialty meat suppliers.
What is veal?
Veal is the meat from a young calf.
How is veal raised?
Veal calves are typically kept in small pens where they are unable to move around much.
What do veal calves typically eat?
Veal calves are typically fed a diet of milk and grain.
How long does it take to raise a veal calf?
It takes approximately 16 weeks to raise a veal calf.
Where is most veal raised?
Most veal is raised in Europe.
What is the main reason for the existence of veal?
The main reason for the existence of veal is to provide a source of meat for human consumption.
Is veal a popular meat?
Veal is not a particularly popular meat although it is consumed by some people.
What are the alternatives to eating veal?
The alternatives to eating veal include beef pork and poultry.
How does the taste of veal compare to other meats?
The taste of veal is generally milder than other meats.
What is the nutritional value of veal?
Veal is a good source of protein and iron.
Is veal a healthy meat to eat?
Veal is generally considered to be a healthy meat to eat.
What are the risks associated with eating veal?
The risks associated with eating veal include the potential for mad cow disease and other diseases.
What are the ethical concerns associated with eating veal?
The ethical concerns associated with eating veal include the treatment of veal calves.
Is veal humane?
The treatment of veal calves is a controversial topic with some people arguing that it is humane and others arguing that it is not.
Should I eat veal?
The decision of whether or not to eat veal is a personal one.
