This article is part of our Rising Star Portfolio series.
I'm on the lookout for socially responsible companies for my Rising Star portfolio. The definition of a socially responsible company can include many aspects, but cruel profits knock stocks out of the running. Companies that fall back on inhumane treatment in the quest for profits simply don't make the grade.
The Humane Society of the United States frequently engages in shareholder activism against companies that use cruel methods that have become synonymous with factory farming's dark side. Its most recent shareholder resolution campaign targets pork producer Seaboard's
Gestation crates basically keep breeding sows immobilized for their entire lives until they are finally slaughtered. These crates are so confining the pigs can't even turn around; use of the crates is also linked to health issues such as weakened bones, urinary tract infections, overgrown hooves, and lameness. That's a terrible kind of life to lead on the way to our plates.
Interestingly enough, the HSUS also pointed out that an Iowa State University study came to the conclusion that group housing for breeding pigs isn't simply more humane, it's also more economical. In other words, such cruel paths to profits may not even be as profitable as die-hard factory farmers may prefer to believe.
Many major companies are backing away from using pork that has been bred in this atrocious manner; Whole Foods Market
Fast-food giant McDonald's
Why? Because these issues truly matter to many consumers, and awareness is growing. The American Farm Bureau recently found that 89% of Americans believe food companies that expect animal welfare from suppliers are doing the right thing. Food industry consultant Technomic also found animal welfare was the third most important social issue to restaurant patrons.
Cruel profits aren't good profits. Socially responsible investors expect better, and shareholders like HSUS advocate for more positive profits in the world.