Ensuring the welfare of broilers: an overview

Summary

Genetic selection for highly efficient, fast-growing broilers has had negative effects on broiler welfare, and the high stocking densities used in some broiler production systems also have a negative impact on welfare. This chapter examines the welfare problems arising from these two factors, and reviews how both factors have been addressed within the European Union. Two case studies are then provided, examining the welfare effects of hatching environment and early feeding, and of alternative broiler production systems.