Broiler Welfare Progress: Industry Commitments and Outcomes

Corporate broiler welfare commitments — including the Better Chicken Commitment — are driving measurable changes in how billions of chickens are raised globally.

Key Facts

Over 850 companies globally have signed the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC) or equivalent welfare pledges
BCC requires slower-growing breeds, lower stocking densities, enrichment, and improved lighting and litter quality
Slower-growing breeds show significantly lower rates of leg disorders, cardiac problems, and mortality
Company progress on BCC commitments is tracked and published annually by welfare organizations
Broiler chickens account for approximately 70 billion animals raised for meat annually worldwide
European retailers have made more progress on BCC implementation than North American equivalents

Welfare Considerations

The Better Chicken Commitment represents one of the most significant corporate welfare reforms in farming history. By setting specific, time-bound standards — breed welfare criteria, stocking density limits, enrichment requirements, and third-party auditing — it creates accountability for billions of animals. Progress has been real but uneven: European retailers have largely complied, while many North American companies have lagged. Consumer pressure, investor engagement, and continued advocacy by welfare organizations remain essential to full implementation and ongoing improvement.

What You Can Do

Check whether your preferred retailers and food brands have signed and are meeting BCC commitments
Support Humane Society International and other organizations tracking corporate welfare pledge compliance
Write to food companies requesting public reporting on their broiler welfare commitment progress
Choose chicken products certified to BCC standards, including slower-growing breed requirements