The fastest-growing commercial broiler breeds experience health problems inherent to their genetics, raising fundamental questions about breed welfare standards.
Commercial broiler breeds have been selected to grow so rapidly that a significant proportion develop life-limiting health problems as a direct consequence of their genetics. This represents a welfare crisis bred into the genetics of modern poultry production. Transitioning to slower-growing breeds is the most fundamental welfare improvement available for broiler chickens and is increasingly supported by corporate commitments.