What is a characteristic of conventional farming in relation to livestock?

Conventional farming often involves practices aimed at maximizing production and efficiency, which can include the use of antibiotics and growth hormones in livestock. These substances are administered to promote faster growth rates and to prevent or treat diseases in animals. This characteristic is prevalent in conventional farming systems, which prioritize yield and profit rather than the organic or humane treatment of animals that might be emphasized in other farming methods.

The other options reflect practices more commonly associated with organic or free-range farming systems, where the use of organic feed, open pastures, and a grass-fed diet are central to the philosophy of animal husbandry. In contrast, the reliance on antibiotics and hormones is a hallmark of conventional methods, illustrating the differences in agricultural practices and animal welfare standards across various farming types.