Broiler chicken welfare has been the subject of substantial scientific research over the past two decades, with robust evidence now available on the welfare impacts of genetics, stocking density, lighting, and environmental enrichment.
Broiler welfare science has reached a level of clarity that makes ongoing welfare compromise increasingly difficult to justify on grounds of uncertainty. We know that current fast-growing genetics cause suffering — the lameness rates, leg disorders, and cardiovascular problems are documented, measurable, and caused by breeding selection for growth rate. We know that slower-growing breeds, lower stocking density, and improved lighting significantly reduce this suffering. We know the costs of implementing the European Chicken Commitment — modest per bird, meaningful at scale but manageable. What remains is the translation of scientific evidence into industry practice through a combination of regulatory requirement, corporate commitment, and consumer demand.