This course will explore the concepts driving current food production science (population growth, urbanization, emerging affluence, resource constraints, and underlying biological limits) with the main focus on livestock production. Each of the major food animal species (dairy, swine, beef, and poultry) will be covered in terms of their universal life cycles, constraints to production and emerging societal issues.
About this Course
Learner Career Outcomes
75%
Learner Career Outcomes
75%
Offered by

University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania (commonly referred to as Penn) is a private university, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. A member of the Ivy League, Penn is the fourth-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, and considers itself to be the first university in the United States with both undergraduate and graduate studies.
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Population Growth and Global Animal Industries
This module introduces the course by discussing the pressing need to address global food security as well as the accompanying challenges and ethical issues. We also explore the role that livestock play in the food production system and review trends in animal production.
Issues Surrounding Animal Production
This module begins to explore the fundamental principles of animal production operations and the issues surrounding animal production. We will look at the efficiency and environmental impact of the food system as well as animal welfare concerns. Finally, we will discuss the importance of water as an essential resource for the food production system.
Animal Feeds and the Environment
This module focuses on animal feeds and their important role in the animal production system. You will gain an understanding of the constituents in feed as well as how feed is classified. We will also examine and explain how nutrients flow through the environment. Finally, we will look at the problem of food waste and identify solutions.
General Animal Production, Efficiency and Food Safety
This module continues the discussion of animal production operations by looking at factors that affect farms’ animal yields and environmental efficiency. We will also explore food safety, how and why antibiotics are used in food production, and the importance of veterinary medicine as part of the livestock system. Finally, we will look at the challenges of food security and livestock farming in the developing world.
Reviews
TOP REVIEWS FROM FEEDING THE WORLD
Excellent content covering the broad scope of U.S. and international livestock-based agriculture. This course addressed the many concerns that consumers have regarding animal products.
Coursera indeed has changed my life and empowered me the right skills for a better tomorrow . i am gratefully appreciate you , for all you have done to bless us
Such a wide diversity of topics presented by a wide diversity of teachers. Right level of information, quantitative and qualitative, for an introductory course.
Fantastic Course! I was so pleased to participate in a course on Feeding the World and to learn it's reality. Thanks to all who put this course on.
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