Broiler Chicken Lighting Welfare Science

Light management in broiler production significantly affects chicken welfare, sleep, activity patterns and health outcomes in intensive systems.

Key Facts

EU law requires a minimum 6 hours of darkness daily in broiler production, with a minimum 4-hour uninterrupted dark period
Continuous or near-continuous lighting was historically used to maximise feed intake and growth
Extended light periods reduce sleep and restrict natural rest cycles in broilers
Dimmer light during dark periods (rather than complete darkness) is used in some systems
Better lighting programmes with natural light cycles improve bird health and reduce leg problems
Light intensity affects fearfulness, dustbathing and foraging behaviour in broiler flocks

Welfare Considerations

Lighting is a key but underappreciated welfare factor in broiler chicken production. Historically, continuous or near-continuous lighting was used to encourage feeding and growth, but this practice severely disrupts natural sleep and rest patterns. Chickens have evolved with day-night cycles and suffer from their disruption. Improved lighting programmes that allow adequate dark periods and provide appropriate light intensity during the day support better welfare, including healthier legs, reduced fearfulness and improved immune function.

What You Can Do

Support welfare certification schemes that require natural or appropriate light cycles for broilers
Ask food businesses and retailers about the lighting standards used in their chicken supply chains
Advocate for stronger minimum lighting standards in broiler production regulations
Choose organic or free-range chicken that often provides better light management
Support research into optimal lighting environments for broiler welfare