Farmed Broiler Breeding and Health

Modern broiler chickens have been bred for such extreme growth rates that cardiovascular disease, leg disorders, and respiratory failure are endemic, representing a systemic welfare crisis.

Key Facts

Commercial broilers reach slaughter weight in 35-42 days compared to 84 days in the 1950s
Rapid muscle growth outpaces skeletal and cardiovascular development
Leg disorders affect up to 30% of commercial broilers causing chronic lameness
Ascites (fluid accumulation) from cardiac failure affects 2-5% of commercial flocks
Broilers show preference for resting over movement due to leg and body condition
Companies including Cargill, Maple Leaf, and Waitrose have committed to the Better Chicken Commitment
The BCC requires slower-growing breeds, more space, environmental enrichment, and improved slaughter
Switching to slower-growing breeds reduces welfare problems by 60-70% in published studies

Welfare Considerations

The extreme selection for rapid growth in broiler chickens has produced animals that are biologically unable to sustain normal activities without pain. Lameness from leg disorders causes chronic discomfort in a third of all commercial broilers worldwide - representing billions of animals in pain. Ascites causes slow suffocation from cardiac failure. The birds themselves cannot be held responsible for their suffering - it is entirely the product of human selection choices that prioritized production efficiency over animal welfare. The Better Chicken Commitment shows industry change is achievable.

What You Can Do

Support the Better Chicken Commitment by purchasing from committed companies
Advocate for retailers and restaurant chains in your country to adopt the BCC
Reduce consumption of factory-farmed chicken
Support Humane Society and Compassion in World Farming campaigns on broiler welfare
Learn about slower-growing breeds and what they mean for chicken welfare