Broiler Welfare: Growth Rate and Welfare Tradeoffs

Overview of the relationship between broiler growth rate, breed selection, and welfare outcomes.

Key Facts

Fast-growing broiler breeds reach slaughter weight in 35-42 days
Slower-growing breeds require 56+ days but demonstrate significantly better welfare profiles
Cardiovascular disease, leg disorders, and metabolic problems are more prevalent in fast-growing breeds
The Better Chicken Commitment specifies maximum growth rate thresholds
Consumer price premium for slower-growing breed chicken remains a barrier to adoption

Welfare Considerations

Broiler growth rate and welfare are directly linked through breed selection. Fast-growing breeds have been selected for rapid muscle accumulation that creates welfare problems including leg disorders, cardiovascular disease, and mobility impairment. Slower-growing breeds demonstrate dramatically better welfare outcomes on these indicators. The welfare case for breed reform is compelling, with the Better Chicken Commitment providing a corporate framework. Consumer willingness to pay the price premium determines adoption speed.

What You Can Do

Choose chicken products meeting Better Chicken Commitment breed welfare standards
Support organisations monitoring and verifying corporate breed welfare commitments
Advocate for welfare-based breed selection criteria in poultry welfare legislation