A confined animal feeding operation (CAFO) refers to a system where animals are raised for food production in confined spaces, with little or no access to the outdoors. While the term CAFO is widely used in the US, there are several synonyms referring to similar practices in other parts of the world. In Europe, CAFOs are known as "intensive livestock farming" or "factory farming." In Australia, it is called "feedlot," and in Canada, it is known as "industrial livestock production." Regardless of the synonym used, these methods of animal farming have been widely criticized for their negative impact on animal welfare, the environment, and public health.