Broiler Chicken: Fast vs Slow Growth Welfare Evidence in 2026

The welfare differences between fast-growing and slower-growing broiler breeds are well-documented, with fast-growing breeds experiencing significantly higher rates of painful musculoskeletal disorders.

Key Facts

Selective breeding for rapid growth has doubled broiler growth rates over the past 50 years
Fast-growing breeds show up to 35% lameness prevalence compared to under 10% in slower-growing breeds
Cardiovascular disease, respiratory failure, and ascites are more prevalent in fast-growing commercial breeds
The Better Chicken Commitment requires transition to slower-growing breeds meeting specific welfare criteria

Welfare Considerations

Fast-growing broiler breeds experience chronic welfare compromise due to skeletal systems unable to support their rapid muscle mass accumulation. Painful lameness, joint lesions, and respiratory distress are endemic in standard commercial breeds. Slower-growing breeds demonstrate that welfare improvements are achievable without sacrificing commercial viability. The Better Chicken Commitment has driven retailer commitments to transition sourcing, creating market pressure for breed change. However, the majority of global broiler production still uses fast-growing breeds with associated high welfare costs.

What You Can Do

Choose chicken products from producers using approved slower-growing breeds
Support retailers that have signed the Better Chicken Commitment and are transitioning breed sourcing
Advocate for legislation requiring transition away from the most problematic fast-growing broiler breeds
Reduce chicken consumption as part of a broader shift to higher welfare animal products