NYC Upholds Ban on Foie Gras Sales

Court ruling allows city to enforce law prohibiting restaurants from serving controversial 'luxury' food product.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:20pm

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A New York state appeals court has unanimously upheld New York City's ban on the sale of foie gras, a French delicacy produced by force-feeding ducks and geese. The ruling overturns a previous court decision that had prevented the city from enforcing the ban, which was passed by the NYC Council in 2019. Animal rights advocates have long criticized foie gras production as cruel, while the industry has fought the law in court.

Why it matters

The foie gras ban has been a contentious issue in New York, pitting animal welfare groups against the foie gras industry. The court's decision affirms the city's ability to enact laws aimed at preventing what activists describe as inhumane farming practices, even in the face of industry opposition.

The details

The NYC Council passed Local Law 202, also known as Intro. 1378, in 2019, banning the sale of foie gras within city limits. The law allows for fines of up to $2,000 per violation for businesses that continue to sell the product. However, the state's agriculture commissioner had previously ordered the city not to enforce the ban, arguing it could harm upstate agriculture. The Appellate Division has now overturned that ruling, clearing the way for NYC to start enforcing the foie gras prohibition.

  • The NYC Council passed the foie gras ban in 2019.
  • The state agriculture commissioner ordered the city not to enforce the ban in 2020.
  • The Appellate Division overturned the trial court's ruling on March 12, 2026.

The players

Voters for Animal Rights (VFAR)

An advocacy group that led the campaign to enact the foie gras ban in New York City.

Bryan Pease

An attorney representing the animal advocacy coalition that challenged the state's attempt to block the foie gras ban.

Allie Taylor

The president of Voters for Animal Rights, who celebrated the court's decision as a "historic victory for animals."

Tracy Reiman

The president of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), another member of the coalition to outlaw foie gras.

Carlina Rivera

A former New York City Council member who supported the foie gras ban, describing the production process as "one of the most violent practices" done for a "purely luxury product."

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Allie Taylor, President of Voters for Animal Rights

“New York City was right to keep the diseased livers of abused birds off the menu, and PETA is cheering the news that the city may finally enforce this ban, helping to spare countless ducks and geese the agony of being force-fed through tubes rammed down their throats.”

— Tracy Reiman, President of PETA

“This is one of the most violent practices and it's done for a purely luxury product.”

— Carlina Rivera, Former NYC Council Member (New York Times)

What’s next

The city of New York is now expected to begin enforcing the foie gras ban, fining businesses up to $2,000 per violation for selling the controversial product.

The takeaway

The court's decision upholds New York City's ability to enact laws aimed at preventing what animal welfare advocates consider cruel farming practices, even in the face of industry opposition. This ruling sets an important precedent for cities seeking to address ethical concerns around food production.