The RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme launched standards for meat chickens in 2010. Visit Shop Humane to find out where you can buy RSPCA Approved chicken.
Welfare issues in the meat chicken industry are largely related to the very rapid growth of these birds: from day-old chicks to barbeque chicken in just 35 days. The birds may suffer from leg disorders, lameness, and fatal heart conditions. High stocking density in conventional systems aggrevate these problems. More information can be found here: http://kb.rspca.org.au/What-are-the-welfare-issues-relating-to-meat-chicken-production_85.html.
Consumers are encouraged to contact the makers of their favourite chicken products and ask them about standards of care for their birds. Alternatively, consumers can look for chicken products from accredited free-range producers (check the accreditation website to view the relevant standards, e.g. FREPA) or look for the RSPCA "Paw of approval" on chicken products.
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