High ammonia concentrations in broiler poultry houses from litter fermentation cause eye damage, respiratory disease, and chronic discomfort in millions of broiler chickens, and are a significant but preventable welfare problem.
Ammonia-related welfare harm in broiler houses is chronic, systemic, and affecting enormous numbers of birds simultaneously. Unlike acute injuries, it occurs gradually and without dramatic visible signs — birds simply endure persistent eye irritation, respiratory discomfort, and increased disease susceptibility throughout their lives. The welfare solution is primarily about litter quality management and adequate ventilation — interventions that are technically straightforward but require investment and management attention. Consumer demand for higher-welfare chicken certified to include air quality standards can incentivise producers to prioritise ammonia management as a welfare requirement rather than an optional improvement.