Farm Animals

Farmed Chicken Slow Growth Welfare

Slower-growing broiler breeds have significantly better welfare outcomes than standard commercial breeds, with reduced leg disorders and increased activity.

Key Facts

Standard broiler breeds reach slaughter weight in 40-47 days — slower breeds take 56+ days
Slower-growing breeds show 50-75% fewer leg disorder rates
Birds on slower-growing programs engage in more active behaviors and dust bathing
Multiple major food companies have committed to slower-growing breed transitions

Welfare Considerations

The extreme growth rates of standard broiler breeds cause chronic welfare compromise from skeletal disorders, cardiovascular strain, and behavioral limitations. Slower-growing breeds demonstrate that broiler welfare improvement is achievable within commercial production systems.

What You Can Do

Choose chicken products from companies committed to slower-growing breeds
Support the Better Chicken Commitment criteria in retail and food service purchasing
Advocate for slower-growing breed requirements in welfare certifications
Engage with restaurant and retailer animal welfare policies to encourage faster transitions