Farm Animal Welfare

Broiler Parent Flock Feed Restriction Welfare

Parent broiler chickens are chronically feed-restricted to prevent obesity from their growth-selected genetics, causing intense hunger and suffering.

Key Facts

Broiler parent birds are fed 30-60% less than they would voluntarily consume
Feed restriction prevents reproductive failure and metabolic disease in fast-growing lines
Restricted breeders show intense food-seeking behaviour and oral stereotypies
Time spent at feeders, aggression and feather pecking increase under restriction
Slower-growing parent lines require less severe restriction

Welfare Considerations

Feed restriction in broiler parent flocks is one of the most severe chronic welfare harms in commercial poultry production. Birds experience persistent hunger for their entire reproductive lives. Transitioning to slower-growing genetics reduces the severity of restriction required.

What You Can Do

Support higher-welfare chicken schemes that use slower-growing breeds
Advocate for breed welfare standards including parent flock criteria
Encourage retailers to audit parent flock welfare in supply chains