I came across some information on the Beef Industry that is very interesting indeed and no I am not from PETA or a vegetarian:

• More than 6 million hamburgers were sold in fast food restaurants alone last year.
• The average American consumes the meat of seven 1,100 pound steers in a lifetime.
• 100,000 cows are slaughtered ever 24 hours
• In South America, the cattle population is approaching the human population.
• In Australia cattle outnumber people
• Cattle raising is a major factor in the destruction of remaining rain forests.
• Since 1960, more than a quarter of Central American forests have been razed to make cattle pastures.
• In South America, 38% of the Amazon forest cleared has been for ranching.
• According to a 1991 report for the UN, as much as 85% of range-land in the Western U.S. is being destroyed, largely by overgrazing.
• Nearly half the water used each year in the U.S. goes to grow feed for cattle and other livestock.
• A 1992 study by the California Department of Water Resources reported that more than 1,200 gallons of water are required to produce an 8-ounce boneless steak

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