Mechanical Chicken Catching: Welfare Improvements in Poultry

Mechanical chicken harvesting machines can significantly reduce catching injuries compared to manual catching, representing an important welfare improvement opportunity.

Key Facts

Manual catching of broilers causes wing fracture rates of 3-8%
Mechanical harvesters use gentle conveyor and finger systems to collect birds
Studies show 50-70% reduction in fractures with mechanical catching
Capital cost of harvesters is around 250,000-400,000 GBP per unit
Higher welfare certification schemes increasingly require mechanical catching

Welfare Considerations

Manual catching involves workers grabbing birds by the legs, carrying multiple birds inverted, and placing them in crates. This causes fear, pain, and a high rate of musculoskeletal injuries. Mechanical harvesters scoop birds gently onto conveyors at ground level, significantly reducing physical handling. Fear responses are reduced with mechanical systems used in darkened conditions. The welfare case for investment in mechanical catching is strong and economics are improving as welfare requirements tighten.

What You Can Do

Support welfare certification schemes requiring mechanical catching
Advocate for retailer procurement standards mandating mechanical or low-stress catching
Choose higher welfare chicken certified to schemes with catching requirements
Engage with the poultry industry about mechanical catching investment
Support research demonstrating the welfare and economic case for mechanical harvesting