Livestock

Farmed Broiler Slow-Growing Breed Welfare Benefits

Slower-growing broiler breeds demonstrate dramatically better welfare outcomes than standard commercial breeds.

Key Facts

Slower-growing breeds take 56+ days to reach slaughter weight versus 33-35 days for standard breeds
They have lower rates of leg disorders, heart failure, and contact dermatitis
Better Chicken Commitment requires use of approved slower-growing breeds
Higher cost is offset by significantly better welfare outcomes for all welfare indicators

Welfare Considerations

The welfare improvement from switching to slower-growing breeds is substantial and well-documented. Leg health, cardiovascular function, and activity levels are all dramatically better in slower-growing birds. The extra days of life are lived in much better health than the final days of fast-growing birds. Breed reform is the single most impactful change available in broiler production and the Better Chicken Commitment has mobilised significant market demand for it.

What You Can Do

Choose chicken products from Better Chicken Commitment signatories
Ask your favourite food brands about their broiler breed commitments
Support campaigns targeting large food companies to adopt BCC standards
Reduce broiler chicken consumption while BCC adoption expands