Poor air quality in broiler houses causes significant respiratory welfare problems. Ammonia from litter is a leading cause of suffering in industrial poultry production.
Ammonia and other airborne pollutants in intensive broiler houses cause chronic welfare harm that is largely invisible to consumers. Birds spending their lives in high-ammonia environments suffer respiratory inflammation, painful eye conditions, and reduced activity. Air quality standards exist but are inconsistently enforced. Higher welfare standards requiring proper ventilation, lower stocking densities, and good litter management can dramatically reduce this preventable suffering.