Conventional broiler breeds grow so fast that leg problems, cardiac disease and chronic pain are endemic. Slow-growing breeds offer substantially better welfare outcomes at higher production cost - a central debate in sustainable poultry production.
The welfare costs of conventional broiler genetics are systemic and unavoidable regardless of other farm management improvements. A bird that grows at twice the physiologically healthy rate will experience skeletal, cardiovascular and metabolic strain throughout its short life - housing improvements, enrichment and lower stocking density all help but cannot fully compensate for breed-level problems. Breed reform is therefore foundational to meaningful broiler welfare improvement. The transition cost is real (approximately 10-20% higher retail price) but represents a genuine welfare investment rather than a marginal improvement.