Broiler chickens raised for meat have complex behavioural needs that are severely restricted in conventional intensive systems, causing chronic frustration and poor welfare.
The welfare of broiler chickens in conventional production is compromised on multiple fronts. Genetic selection for extreme growth rates has created birds whose bodies struggle to sustain normal physiological function. Locomotor problems prevent chickens from expressing natural behaviours like foraging and social exploration. Barren concrete or slatted floors deny dustbathing, a behaviour hens perform compulsively when given the chance. Overcrowded sheds prevent subordinate birds from escaping dominant conspecifics. The combination of physical discomfort, behavioural frustration, and impoverished environments means billions of broiler chickens experience chronic suffering. Simple enrichment interventions can substantially improve welfare at minimal cost, yet uptake remains low without consumer or regulatory pressure.