How do you feel about factory farming and the meat industry in general?

Do you feel that factory farming is essential to feed the growing global human population? Are you concerned with the environmental impact and the health risks? How does animal welfare factor in?

I lived in ignorant bliss for most of my life and ignored the facts about meat in America and other countries where factory farming is prevalent. I get it…meat is yummy! What I don’t get are the people who are informed and understand these practices but still eat meat (non-organic). Perhaps I’m missing something…

Every once in a while being a vegetarian is challenging. I just had lunch with a co-worker who enjoyed the most delicious looking cheeseburger that I’ve ever seen. I’m curious to know how other people deal with the decision to eat or not eat meat.