Maybe some of the disconnect is the fact that we're talking about different countries. Veal is quite different here, and I don't think it's a matter of strict definitions. It's just a matter of efficiency and what people like. Here are some numbers about what the makeup of the industry is like: http://www.dairyherd.com/e-newsletters/dairy-daily/141067953.... I think broad brushes are entirely appropriate.
We do have a depressing lack of welfare laws for farm animals here, and that surely has a lot to do with it.
> We do have a depressing lack of welfare laws for farm animals here, and that surely has a lot to do with it.
One thing I always like to point out is that we have completely stopped growing GMO soybeans on our farm because the market demanded it. Consumers have a lot of control over the actions of farmers. You really don't need legislation to start solving the problems you see, you just have to start asking for what you want changed.
We do have a depressing lack of welfare laws for farm animals here, and that surely has a lot to do with it.