The UK broiler industry has seen significant welfare improvements through higher-welfare certification schemes, but the majority of chickens consumed in the UK still live in conditions causing chronic welfare compromise.
Fast-growing commercial broiler breeds experience chronic welfare compromise from their genetics alone — leg weakness, cardiovascular stress and respiratory difficulties are prevalent at standard commercial stocking densities. Welfare improvements through slower-growing breed adoption and lower stocking density are proven and achievable at modest cost. The remaining 80% of UK production that does not meet higher-welfare standards represents a very large ongoing welfare burden.