Transitioning from fast-growing to slower-growing broiler breeds substantially improves welfare outcomes, with growing evidence supporting industry and retailer commitments to the Better Chicken Commitment.
Fast-growing broilers are bred for extreme muscle growth that their skeletal and cardiovascular systems cannot support. Up to 30% of fast-growing birds experience chronic lameness causing pain during their entire lives. Ascites (fluid accumulation from heart failure) affects several percent of flocks. Slower-growing breeds are more active, spend less time sitting, and show fewer signs of chronic pain. Transition costs are real but welfare gains are substantial and measurable.