Veterinary ethics and moral problems in the context of food production

This short paper discusses three developments to analyse current challenges veterinarians specialized in farm animal health are confronted with. First, I argue that the plurality of views on the moral standing of animals is especially a problem in the context of farm animal health and welfare. A second development focuses on the extending range of competences a veterinarian needs in order to work in the agro-food sector. The third development starts in the change in public expectations of the veterinary profession. I end with some remarks on the importance of professional integrity. I argue that only as committed, but independent professionals in the agro-food sector veterinarians can deal with the three developments.