Source: Rita Jane Gabbett, MEATINGPLACE, 11/15/13


The National Chicken Council issued a news release publicly responding to a letter from the American Society for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) asking it to change its guidelines for chicken producers.

In its letter, the ASPCA urged updated guidelines to include:
•      Slower-growing breeds of chicken whose genetics allow for better mobility and stamina
•      A stocking density that affords chickens more space than the current standard
•      Natural light in sheds that encourages movement during the daytime and adequate rest at night
•      Environmental enrichment such as straw bales that provide both physical exercise and mental stimulation and allow the birds a place to perch

"The ASPCA's description of poultry production in the United States is not based on fact and in no way represents the realities of modern poultry production or the health and welfare of today's chickens,” said NCC spokesman Tom Super. “The U.S. national broiler flock is incredibly healthy and is the envy of the world. Mortality and condemnation rates for broilers, the most sensitive indicators of the health and well-being of any flock, are at historical lows.”

Super also said better nutrition, breeding, genetics, veterinary attention and technology, which include optimum growing conditions within climate-controlled barns, are the reasons it takes less time for chickens to naturally reach market weight without the use of hormones or steroids.
Despite common misconceptions, Super said, “broiler chickens are never caged and free to roam within barns, interact, and eat and drink at will.”

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