Broiler Parent Welfare Advanced | Animal Welfare Hub

Broiler parent birds are the breeding stock for commercial broilers and face distinct welfare challenges arising from the genetics of fast-growing offspring lines.

Key Facts

Broiler parents carry the genetics for rapid growth but must be feed-restricted to prevent obesity and reproductive failure
Feed restriction causes chronic hunger and frustration, a serious welfare concern
Female broiler parents have a high incidence of lameness, cardiovascular disease, and reproductive tract problems
Breeding lines selecting for improved welfare traits in both parents and offspring are commercially available
Research into hunger-tolerant breeding lines could reduce the need for severe feed restriction

Welfare Considerations

Broiler parent welfare is a hidden but significant welfare issue; the chronic hunger imposed on breeding birds to maintain reproductive performance is ethically indefensible without urgent research into alternatives.

What You Can Do

Advocate for industry action on broiler parent welfare as part of chicken welfare commitments
Support research into alternative breeding strategies that reduce feed restriction severity
Raise awareness of broiler parent welfare with producers and certification bodies