Broiler Breed Reform and Welfare Science

Slower-growing broiler breeds with improved welfare outcomes are commercially available, with growing retailer and consumer demand driving industry transition.

Key Facts

Fast-growing conventional broiler breeds reach 2.5 kg in 33-35 days with significant welfare trade-offs
Slower-growing breeds reaching the same weight in 56-63 days show dramatically lower leg disorder, heart disease, and ascites rates
The Better Chicken Commitment requires signatory companies to transition to approved slower-growing breeds by 2026
Approximately 850 major food companies including Nestlé, Whole Foods, and Compass Group have signed the Better Chicken Commitment
Slower-growing breeds cost approximately 10-15 cents more per pound to produce, requiring modest price premiums or retailer absorption

Welfare Considerations

Fast-growing broiler breeds experience systemic welfare compromise from their own genetic selection for rapid muscle growth - heart failure, skeletal disorders, and metabolic disease are inherent to the physiology of these birds. No husbandry improvement can fully compensate for breed-level welfare compromise. Breed reform that transitions to slower-growing genetics with natural behavior capacity represents the highest-impact single intervention available for broiler welfare. Consumer demand and retailer commitment drive the commercial transition that makes this breed shift viable for farmers.

What You Can Do

Choose chicken from producers using Better Chicken Commitment approved breeds
Support retailers and food companies that have signed the Better Chicken Commitment
Ask your favorite restaurants about their broiler breed welfare commitments
Advocate for slower-growing breed requirements in welfare certification schemes
Learn about the Better Chicken Commitment and share its goals with others concerned about chicken welfare