8.30.19 - Farms worry as city considers foie gras ban
'A New York City proposal to ban the sale of foie gras, the fattened liver of a duck or goose, has the backing of animal welfare advocates, but could mean trouble for farms outside the city that are the premier U.S. producers of the French delicacy.'
'The proposed ban is viewed with alarm at Hudson Valley Foie Gras, a 200-acre (80-hectare) farm two hours north of the city in the Catskill Mountains that is the largest producer of foie gras in the U.S.'
'"There's a much greater than 50% chance that we wouldn't survive if we lose our New York City sales," said Marcus Henley, the farm's manager, noting that about one-third of the Hudson Valley product is sold in New York City. Another third was lost to a ban in California.'
'Chicago banned foie gras in 2006, but the ordinance was repealed amid a backlash in 2008 after then-Mayor Richard Daley called it "the silliest law that they've ever passed."'
'Henley, Hudson Valley Foie Gras' manager, said if the New York bill passes, the company might move to Canada, where he could save on overhead expenses by joining forces with other producers.'