Finland urged to implement immediate ban on fur farming after new bird flu mutation detected in minks

Finland is Europe’s second-largest producer of fur, despite its green credentials, but a new mutation of avian flu may put the industry to bed

Finland is being urged to implement an immediate ban on fur farming.

The country is Europe’s second-largest fur producer, despite growing resistance from residents. In fact, a staggering 74 per cent of Finnish people say they oppose current fur farming practices.

However, a new bird flu mutation that has been found in minks could be enough reason to end the industry.

Will Finland ban fur farming?

Vegan charity PETA has written a letter to Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orp, insisting he permanently closes the 700+ fur farms in the country.

“This move would help prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases, protect vital natural resources, and bolster the country’s reputation as an animal-friendly nation,” the letter reads.

“Fur farming involves cramming large numbers of animals together in rows of wire cages, where bodily fluids such as urine, excrement, pus, and blood can easily pass from one to another.

“This encourages the presence of bird flu, COVID-19, and other dangerous zoonotic pathogens which can – and do – mutate and spread.”

The letter also addresses the environmental impacts of fur production and describes the practice as ‘inherently cruel’.

‘The next pandemic’

In a statement sent to Vegan Food & Living, PETA Vice President for Europe Mimi Bekhechi said: “Even without considering the current bird flu outbreak, filthy fur farms packed with sick, stressed, and injured minks are breeding grounds for infectious disease.

“PETA is calling on Orpo to shut down these cruel and dangerous facilities…Before they’re responsible for the next pandemic.”

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Featured photo © Rokas via Adobe Stock