The New World screwworm, a flesh-eating worm, has resurfaced in South Texas, highlighting the risks associated with factory farming. The crowded and cruel conditions of modern animal agriculture create ideal conditions for parasites like screwworms to spread rapidly. The outbreak has led to a frantic containment effort by Texas and federal animal health officials, with plans to breed sterile male flies to combat the issue.

The screwworm larvae target a wide range of animals, including livestock, wildlife, and pets, making no warm-blooded animal safe. The reemergence of this parasite can be traced back to the practices of factory farming, where animals are subjected to painful mutilations that leave open wounds, inviting infestations. Making conscious choices at the dinner table, such as choosing plant-based foods, can help create a safer and more compassionate food system that does not contribute to the suffering of vulnerable beings or the return of such biological threats.