Livestock

Farmed Broiler Lighting Programmes and Welfare

Light management affects broiler sleep, behaviour, and welfare throughout their lives.

Key Facts

Commercial broilers historically kept under near-continuous light to maximise feeding
Continuous lighting causes sleep deprivation and elevated stress
EU law requires minimum 6 hours darkness per 24-hour period
Better lighting programmes improve welfare without compromising growth significantly

Welfare Considerations

Broilers under continuous lighting cannot achieve adequate sleep and rest, causing chronic fatigue and elevated stress hormones. Darkness periods are a fundamental behavioural need allowing normal circadian rhythms and rest. Evidence shows that appropriate lighting programmes with 8+ hours darkness significantly improve welfare with minimal production cost.

What You Can Do

Choose chicken from Better Chicken Commitment certified producers
Support mandatory minimum darkness requirements in broiler regulations
Advocate for lighting standards to be audited in welfare schemes
Reduce conventional broiler consumption in favour of higher welfare alternatives