Farm Animal Welfare

Broiler Parent Flock Welfare: Chronic Hunger

Addressing the chronic hunger experienced by broiler breeder parent birds due to feed restriction.

Key Facts

Broiler breeders are genetically selected for rapid growth but restricted to 30-40% of ad libitum intake
This restriction causes chronic hunger, frustration, and stereotypic behaviour throughout their lives
Alternative genetic lines with lower feed motivation are being developed to reduce this welfare impact
Feed enrichment approaches including high-fibre fillers reduce hunger without increasing productivity costs

Welfare Considerations

Chronic hunger in broiler breeders is one of the most ethically troubling welfare issues in poultry production - birds are deliberately kept perpetually hungry to prevent obesity-related problems caused by their own genetics. Genetic reform is the most lasting solution.

What You Can Do

Support poultry genetics companies investing in welfare-conscious broiler breeder lines
Advocate for restricted feeding in broiler breeders to be addressed in welfare standards
Choose chicken products from welfare schemes that include broiler breeder welfare criteria