Welfare Science

Farm Animal Genetic Diversity and Breed Conservation Welfare

Commercial animal agriculture has concentrated on a small number of high-yielding breeds. Loss of genetic diversity reduces adaptive capacity and can entrench welfare problems.

Key Facts

Three broiler breeding companies control almost all global commercial broiler genetics
Rare breeds often have better welfare characteristics but lower production efficiency
The Rare Breeds Survival Trust maintains populations of rare UK livestock breeds
Genetic diversity is a welfare resource - allowing adaptation to climate change and disease

Welfare Considerations

Farm animal genetic diversity welfare implications include both the welfare problems entrenched in commercial breeds and the long-term adaptive capacity loss from genetic erosion. Supporting rare breed conservation and commercial breed diversity initiatives addresses both concerns.

What You Can Do

Purchase products from rare breed farms to support genetic diversity
Support Rare Breeds Survival Trust conservation of traditional UK livestock breeds
Advocate for genetic diversity requirements in commercial poultry breeding programmes