Livestock

Lighting Programmes and Broiler Chicken Welfare

Lighting management in broiler houses affects activity levels, circadian rhythm regulation, eye health and welfare, with research supporting more natural light programmes than traditional commercial practice.

Key Facts

Traditional broiler lighting programmes use 23 hours light per day to maximise feeding time and growth
Reduced photoperiods of 16-18 hours light increase activity levels and reduce leg disorder rates
Natural light access is associated with better bone strength and circadian rhythm health
The EU Broilers Directive requires a minimum 6 hours darkness per day in all commercial houses

Welfare Considerations

Lighting programmes affect broiler welfare through multiple pathways including circadian disruption from continuous near-24-hour lighting, eye health, activity levels and bone health. Research consistently demonstrates welfare benefits from more natural photoperiods and natural light access. The welfare case for better lighting programmes has been clearly established but industry uptake remains slow.

What You Can Do

Support broiler welfare standards requiring minimum dark periods and natural light access
Choose chicken from certification schemes that require improved lighting programmes
Advocate for stronger regulations requiring natural light access in all new broiler house construction
Support research into low-cost retrofitting options for natural light in existing broiler buildings