Smithfield, the largest pork producer in America, has a staggering operation, killing over 31 million pigs annually. This number surpasses the combined population of major U.S. cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago, reflecting the vast scale of animal farming practices in the country. Such figures highlight the significant impact of industrial agriculture on animal population and the environment.

In his book "Eating Animals," Jonathan Safran Foer draws attention to these realities, prompting readers to consider the ethical implications of their dietary choices. The comparison to large urban populations serves to emphasize not just the volume of pigs slaughtered, but also the broader consequences of meat production on society and the planet.