From Andrew Sullivan....

FINGER-LICKING BRUTALITY: More evidence that many parts of our agricultural industry - even with chickens now - is, with respect to treatment of animals, a moral disgrace. Money quote:

The group said its investigator also obtained eyewitness testimony about employees "ripping birds' beaks off, spray-painting their faces, twisting their heads off, spitting tobacco into their mouths and eyes, and breaking them in half -- all while the birds are still alive."

Just incredible - but perhaps unavoidable in a food industry that often treats animals with contempt and cruelty. (If you care about these issues, can I recommend again Matthew Scully's moving and important book, "Dominion.")