Slaughter of Spent Broiler Breeders

Broiler breeder hens are feed-restricted to prevent obesity while maintaining reproductive function, causing chronic hunger throughout their lives.

Key Facts

Broiler breeders are the parent generation producing chicks for broiler production
They are genetically identical to commercial broilers but would become obese and infertile on ad libitum feed
Feed restriction to 40 to 60% of ad libitum intake is used to maintain reproductive function and prevent cardiovascular disease
Restricted birds show persistent food-seeking behavior indicating chronic hunger throughout the laying period
Welfare research shows broiler breeders given ad libitum access prioritize food above almost all other resources

Welfare Considerations

Broiler breeder feed restriction is a stark welfare compromise: animals genetically engineered to eat as much as possible are deliberately kept in a state of chronic hunger for their entire productive lives. The hunger is not incidental — it is the management tool that makes breeding possible. This fundamental tension in the broiler breeding system cannot be resolved without genetic reform.

What You Can Do

Support breeding programs developing lines with appropriate appetites for both broiler and breeder welfare
Advocate for transparency about broiler breeder management in poultry welfare certification schemes
Choose chicken products from producers committed to long-term genetic welfare improvement in their breeding stock