In a landmark victory for animal protection, a New York appellate court has ruled that New York City’s foie gras ban may be enforced, restoring the city’s authority to prohibit the sale of the cruel product.

Foie gras is produced by force-feeding ducks or geese large amounts of food through tubes inserted into their throats, a process known as gavage. Animal welfare organizations say the practice causes severe suffering and results in abnormally enlarged livers.

The ban was passed in 2019 after years of advocacy from animal protection groups and growing public concern over the treatment of birds in foie gras production. It prohibits restaurants and retailers in New York City from selling the product.

“Voters For Animal Rights is overjoyed with this historic victory for animals and grateful that New York City’s right to govern itself remains intact,” said Allie Taylor, president of Voters for Animal Rights (VFAR).

“Today’s ruling not only upholds the city’s ability to make decisions in the best interest of its residents, human and nonhuman alike, but also shows the power of citizens coming together for justice and compassion.

“This is a momentous step forward in creating a kinder, more humane world, and it proves that meaningful change is possible when people refuse to accept cruelty as the status quo,” added Taylor.

While the ruling allows the city to enforce the ban, separate litigation from foie gras producers is still pending, which could delay full implementation.

If fully enforced, the law would make New York City one of the largest jurisdictions in the U.S. to ban foie gras. Advocates say the decision reflects growing momentum nationwide to address cruelty in food production and signals a brighter future for animals.