Exciting News for Chickens!

The prominent third-party certification for farm animals, Global Animal Partnership (G.A.P.) just published its new standards that will require higher-welfare breeds for broiler chickens across its entire program. This marks a significant advancement in the treatment of millions of chickens raised for meat. This initiative directly addresses the longstanding issues associated with fast-growing breeds and sets a new standard for the U.S. chicken industry by 2030.

The Problem with Fast-Growing Breeds

Over the past few decades, the poultry industry has favored fast-growing broiler chickens due to their efficiency in meat production. These breeds reach market weight in as little as 35 days, a pace that often leads to severe health complications. Common issues include lameness, cardiovascular defects, and compromised immune systems. Such rapid growth results in birds spending approximately 85% of their time sitting, unable to express natural behaviors like perching, foraging, or dustbathing. This not only diminishes their quality of life but also raises ethical concerns about the humane treatment of animals.

Positive Impact on the U.S. Chicken Industry

G.A.P.'s commitment to higher welfare breeds is poised to transform the U.S. chicken industry. By shifting towards slower-growing breeds, producers can alleviate many of the welfare issues inherent in current practices. This transition is expected to lead to healthier birds capable of natural behaviors throughout their lives, thereby improving their overall well-being. Moreover, as consumer awareness and demand for ethically produced meat rise, companies adopting these standards may gain a competitive advantage, fostering a more sustainable and humane industry.

Notable companies that have a commitment to source G.A.P. chicken include Whole Foods Market, Sprouts and Giant Eagle.

Chicken producers are also excited to see this standard developed. Mike Charles of LaBelle Patrimoine shows his support for this new standard: "LaBelle Patrimoine and our family-owned and operated farms raise our slower-grown heritage birds by prioritizing the highest animal welfare practices,” said Mike Charles, founder and CEO, Labelle Patrimoine. "The new G.A.P. standard will encourage us to strive to continue our stringent practices and we hope it will also help lead the way to make more humane food production the norm.”

Compassion in World Farming's Role in Implementation

Compassion in World Farming played an active role in this crucial work as a member of the G.A.P. Board of Directors. Senior Research Manager, Dr. Hillary Dalton, shares:

“Today's commercial chicken breeds suffer from significant health issues, growing so unnaturally large that they often become immobile and unable to exhibit even basic natural behaviors. As a result, many chickens die before reaching slaughter. The launch of Global Animal Partnership's new standard marks a major step towards improving the welfare of hundreds of millions of chickens within their program. By adopting healthier, slower-growing breeds, G.A.P. addresses a critical welfare issue that is long overdue within the industry. This decision benefits both the chickens and the farmers who raise them”

At Compassion in World Farming, we recognize the challenges producers and companies may face during this transition. To support the implementation of higher welfare standards, we offer comprehensive resources and guidance tailored to the needs of the industry. Our corporate engagement team collaborates with food businesses to develop and refine animal welfare policies, ensuring they align with the new G.A.P. standards. We provide practical tools, such as the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC) Supplier and Distributor List, to help companies source compliant breeds. Additionally, we assist in creating detailed action plans with public timelines, fostering transparency and accountability. By working closely with all stakeholders, we aim to facilitate a smooth transition that benefits both the animals and the industry.

G.A.P.'s initiative to adopt higher welfare breeds represents a pivotal step towards more humane poultry production. By addressing the detriments of fast-growing breeds and promoting healthier alternatives, the U.S. chicken industry stands to make significant ethical and operational advancements. Compassion in World Farming remains committed to supporting this evolution, working hand-in-hand with producers and companies to implement these crucial changes effectively.