Major restaurant chains in the United Kingdom, including KFC and Nando’s, have recently withdrawn from the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC), which sought to enhance chicken welfare standards. This decision comes as demand for poultry continues to rise. Eight restaurant groups, which also encompass the owners of Burger King, have opted for an industry-led initiative that does not require them to stop using fast-growing chicken breeds.
Animal welfare organizations have expressed concern over the shift, particularly regarding the fast-growing chickens often referred to as “franken-chickens.” These birds are bred to reach maturity more quickly, but they also exhibit higher rates of premature death and muscle diseases.
According to UKHospitality, the trade body representing the restaurant brands that have exited the BCC, the new industry-led plan aims to help firms reduce emissions while meeting the increasing demand for poultry. Allen Simpson, head of UKHospitality, stated that despite the change, these businesses remain committed to improving welfare and environmental practices.
The BCC originally required members to source only slower-growing chicken breeds, a stipulation that UKHospitality argues is no longer feasible. They contend that raising slower-growing breeds leads to greater greenhouse gas emissions compared to faster-growing varieties. The eight businesses that have left the BCC have instead joined the Sustainable Chicken Forum (SCF), which aims to balance animal welfare with environmental sustainability and meet consumer demand.
Prominent brands among the new SCF members include Popeyes, Wingstop, and Wagamama. UKHospitality emphasized that the SCF will focus on enhancing welfare while minimizing the environmental impact of chicken farming.
Animal welfare advocates have criticized the move. Connor Jackson, chief executive of Anima International, dismissed the companies’ rationale as financially motivated. He emphasized that “franken-chickens pose the most serious animal welfare problem in the UK.”
In a statement earlier in 2024, KFC indicated that it would no longer phase out the purchase of fast-growing chickens. The recent announcement marks a complete withdrawal from the BCC. The BBC reports that KFC, owned by Yum Brands, accounts for approximately 4% of the UK’s chicken supply. Currently, there is insufficient availability of slower-growing poultry to meet demand.
Richard Griffiths, head of the British Poultry Council, welcomed these developments. He noted that in light of rising production costs and delays in planning approvals, the industry does not need additional financial burdens.
Despite a notable increase in takeaway chicken outlets in the UK, major supermarkets continue to be the primary purchasers of poultry. Retailers such as M&S and Waitrose, along with café chains like Greggs and Pret, remain committed members of the BCC, highlighting a clear divide in the industry regarding chicken welfare standards.
