Modern broiler chickens have been bred to grow so rapidly that their bodies cannot support their own weight, causing chronic pain and organ failure.
The genetic selection of broiler chickens for extreme growth rates represents one of the most significant animal welfare problems in modern food production. Birds who live for only 5-6 weeks experience chronic pain from leg disorders, cardiovascular stress, and skin lesions from inability to move normally. They are conscious and capable of suffering throughout this abbreviated life. Slower-growing breeds, while more expensive to produce, have dramatically better welfare outcomes and represent a viable transition for the industry.