Farm Animal Welfare

Broiler Catching and Loading Welfare

Manual catching and loading of broiler chickens at slaughter weight causes injuries and fear, with mechanical catching systems offering partial welfare improvements.

Key Facts

Approximately 16 broilers per minute are caught manually by skilled catchers
Wing fractures, dislocations and bruising occur during catching and crating
Mechanical harvesting machines gather birds with rotating rubber fingers
Studies show mechanical harvesting reduces mortality but may not eliminate injuries
Catching at night when birds are calmer reduces fear and injury rates

Welfare Considerations

Catching and loading is among the most welfare-impactful events in broiler production. Both manual and mechanical methods cause welfare harm, though mechanical systems reduce handler fatigue and some injury types. Slower-growing birds that are calmer and more mobile sustain fewer catching injuries.

What You Can Do

Choose certified chicken products that include catching welfare standards
Support research into improved catching technology that reduces bird injury
Advocate for mandatory catching welfare audits in slaughter plant inspections