Farm Animals

Broiler Chicken Breed Welfare Reform

The campaign to transition the broiler chicken industry to slower-growing breeds with better welfare outcomes has gained significant corporate commitments but faces implementation challenges.

Key Facts

Major food companies including KFC, McDonald's and others signed Better Chicken Commitments
Slower-growing breeds like RSPCA Assured approved breeds show significantly better leg health
Transition costs are estimated at a few pence per bird but have slowed corporate implementation
Consumer research shows strong support for better welfare chicken when costs are explained
Broiler leg disorders affect around 30% of commercial broilers causing chronic pain

Welfare Considerations

Broiler breed reform is one of the most impactful available farm animal welfare interventions due to the number of animals affected. Corporate commitments are encouraging but implementation gaps are significant. Consumer and investor pressure is needed to maintain momentum.

What You Can Do

Support organisations tracking Better Chicken Commitment implementation progress
Choose higher welfare chicken products from companies with verified welfare commitments
Contact food companies to ask about their broiler welfare commitments and timelines