Farm Animals

Poultry Welfare: Campylobacter Control Welfare Link

Reducing Campylobacter in broiler flocks is a food safety priority that is closely linked to welfare through shared risk factors including stocking density and litter quality.

Key Facts

Campylobacter is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the UK and EU
Higher stocking density and poor litter quality are associated with both higher Campylobacter prevalence and worse welfare
Biosecurity interventions that reduce Campylobacter also tend to improve welfare conditions
Reducing stocking density to improve welfare simultaneously reduces food safety risk

Welfare Considerations

The alignment of welfare and food safety interests in Campylobacter control creates a compelling case for welfare improvement that extends beyond animal ethics to public health. Policy and industry responses to Campylobacter that focus on stocking density and litter quality serve both objectives simultaneously.

What You Can Do

Support broiler welfare improvements that also reduce Campylobacter risk
Advocate for stocking density reductions that serve both welfare and food safety goals
Engage with food safety and welfare organisations developing aligned messaging on Campylobacter and welfare