What is GOOD4FUR?
The GOOD4FUR program comprises three elements:
hardware, animal welfare, and quality of breeders. Wherein
animal welfare accounts for the highest proportion and
evaluates four aspects, namely good feeding, good housing, good health, good behaviour.
Hence the name of the certification: GOOD4FUR.
|
The certification is awarded to farms that adhere to standards crafted by experts based on the Fur-Bearing Animal Farming and Breed Technical Directions by the Chinese Forestry Administration, Administrative Measures on Livestock and Poultry License by Chinese Ministry of Agriculture with reference to European WELFUR standards. |
|
Mr Liu overseeing mink on the farm. |
The introduction of GOOD4FUR in 2018 marked a milestone
in China’s Fur Industry, as farming entered a new era of
standarisation and modernisation.
There are five founding members of GOOD4FUR although
the program aims to expand in 2019 as more farms meet
the high assessment standards.
IFF Visit
|
In October 2018 the IFF visited Yichun in North-East China to meet with the GOOD4FUR farmers and assess the progress of the program. During this trip IFF visited GOOD4FUR member Mr Liu's farm. The farm was established in 2014 and holds white, brown and silver blue hair mink. The trip showcased the transparent and open nature of this GOOD4FUR certified farm. As Mr Liu conducted the visit with IFF and a representative from the China Leather Industry Association, he was happy to discuss all issues related to the running of the farm and the requirements of the GOOD4FUR program. Animal welfare is the primary concern of all those who work on the farm. A testing lab is located close by to examine animals for disease and ensure their good health. The farm also receives visits from veterinarians to assess the animals health and wellbeing. Employees frequently engage with the animals, stimulating them with constant interaction. In addition, the farm boasts a sophisticated heating system which keeps water supplies constant during the colder periods. |
|
The on-site testing lab. As the farm is GOOD4FUR certified it is biannually visited by independent officials to check that the animals are demonstrating good health and behaviour. During the week of the visit a veterinarian from the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of the People's Republic of China (ACSIQ) visited the farm. The GOOD4FUR program is seen by its members as an opportunity to showcase good farming practices and in turn drive standards in China. This can help to secure the future of mink farming in China. Sustainable Farming The farm is not only a success story in terms of animal welfare, it also operates with a strong focus on sustainability. Mr Liu owns a feeding facility located in the same area. The feed is comprised of the by-products of the fish industry (from the nearby coast) as well as bean powder and duck oil in order to adhere to the correct nutritional demands of the feed standards. |
The manure and animal carcasses are then used as fertiliser for
nearby farms helping to support a circular farming process.
The farm supports many jobs in the local area.
|
|
Mr Liu’s GOOD4FUR farm in Yichun. |
|
Mr Liu explained to IFF that he is a committed member of the GOOD4FUR program because of the high animal welfare standards that are required. Mr Liu, along with other GOOD4FUR members and farmers, are keen for the program to expand to include more farms which meet the strict standards and principles. |
