Mechanical catching machines offer welfare advantages over manual catching in broiler production. Understanding the welfare evidence guides equipment choice and operational standards.
Catching and loading is one of the most welfare-significant points in the broiler production cycle. Both manual and mechanical catching cause fear and potential injury, but well-operated mechanical harvesters can achieve lower injury rates than fatigued manual catchers handling thousands of birds per shift. Welfare standards should specify maximum injury rates assessed at slaughter line, creating accountability for catching method and operator training.