Learnings in welfare from Scandinavian broiler farmers

Kieron Daniels, Aviagen's broiler technical services manager, has highlighted significant variations in bird welfare attitudes among northern European countries, particularly between the UK and Scandinavia, during his talks at the South West Chicken Association conference. He pointed out that Scandinavian farms are better insulated, use more advanced enrichment methods like platforms, and prioritize UV lighting over windows, which the UK could adopt to reduce mortality and improve welfare.

Daniels criticized the UK's approach to environmental enrichment, such as straw bales and perches, suggesting they may not be as effective as Norway's and emphasized the importance of scientific evidence to support the use of enrichments. He also raised concerns about the use of perches, stating they can cause bottlenecks and stress, contrasting with the Scandinavian platform system that allows birds to move freely.

Open Philanthropy's investment in promoting superior bird welfare in northern Europe and the introduction of the European Chicken Commitment have caught Daniels' attention, underscoring the need for the UK to improve its broiler enrichment practices. He stressed the importance of data-driven decisions and the involvement of producers in the National Farmers’ Union farm assurance producer meetings to guide the NFU’s response to the 'Farm Assurance Review', aiming to establish a more transparent, effective, and resilient farm assurance system.