Livestock

End-of-Lay Hen Welfare: Slaughter and Transport 2026

End-of-lay hens face significant welfare challenges during the catching, transport and slaughter process at the end of their productive lives.

Key Facts

Around 50 million end-of-lay hens are slaughtered annually in the UK alone
End-of-lay hens are more fragile than broilers due to osteoporosis from high egg production
Bone fracture rates during catching and transport can exceed 30% in some studies
Controlled atmosphere systems are the most humane stunning method for this class of bird

Welfare Considerations

End-of-lay hens are extremely susceptible to bone fractures during mechanical catching and transport due to osteoporosis. Rough handling by catchers causes wing and leg fractures. Extended journey times cause dehydration and heat or cold stress. Welfare priorities include gentle catching methods, appropriate journey time limits, effective stunning before slaughter, and breeding selection for reduced osteoporosis.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns for gentler catching methods and shorter journey times for end-of-lay hens
Advocate for bone fracture monitoring at slaughter as a welfare outcome indicator
Choose eggs from producers committed to higher-welfare end-of-lay slaughter standards
Support research into reducing osteoporosis through nutrition and breed selection