Poultry Farming

Farmed Duck Welfare and Water Access Progress

Progress in improving farmed duck welfare through water access requirements is growing in some markets, driven by consumer and retailer commitments.

Key Facts

UK duck production has seen increasing adoption of open water access beyond nipple drinkers
Retailer commitments have driven producer investment in duck welfare improvements
Ducks with open water access show significantly fewer eye and respiratory problems
RSPCA Assured duck standard requires open water for head immersion
Consumer demand for higher-welfare duck products is growing in premium markets

Welfare Considerations

Progress in duck welfare demonstrates that consumer and retailer pressure can drive meaningful change. The adoption of water access requirements by major UK retailers has created market conditions for genuine welfare improvement in the duck sector. This progress should be consolidated and extended - both deepening standards and broadening adoption across more of the market.

What You Can Do

Choose RSPCA Assured or higher-welfare duck products
Ask restaurants and food companies about their duck welfare commitments
Support campaigns to extend water access requirements across UK duck production