Broiler chicken welfare in 2026 is increasingly regulated through stocking density limits, environmental enrichment requirements and breed welfare considerations.
Standard broiler production creates significant welfare concerns through rapid growth causing musculoskeletal problems, metabolic disease and pain. Leg disorders affect a large proportion of commercial broilers causing lameness and discomfort. High stocking densities limit movement and behaviour expression. Litter quality degradation in intensive houses causes footpad and hock burns. Higher welfare systems using slower-growing breeds and lower densities dramatically improve welfare outcomes.