Farmed Animals

Outdoor Access for Broiler Chickens

Outdoor access for broiler chickens is associated with better welfare outcomes but requires management to ensure meaningful use.

Key Facts

Free-range broiler systems require 4 square metres of outdoor range per bird in EU standards
Many free-range broilers do not use outdoor range due to fear, lack of shelter, and short production cycles
Slower-growing breeds are more likely to use outdoor range successfully
Cover crops and perches encourage range use and improve welfare indicators
Organic standards mandate access to range with vegetation cover

Welfare Considerations

Outdoor access for broilers has the potential to significantly improve welfare by enabling foraging, dust bathing, and movement. However, range use varies significantly depending on breed, management, and environmental design. Fast-growing breeds may be unable to range effectively due to health limitations. Meaningful outdoor access requires investment in slower-growing breeds, range design, and shelter provision.

What You Can Do

Choose free-range or organic chicken where meaningful range use is verified
Support welfare standards that measure actual range use rather than just access
Advocate for slower-growing breeds in free-range broiler production
Raise awareness about the difference between outdoor access and meaningful range use
Support research into range use behaviour and its welfare benefits in broilers