EU Agrees New Rules To Improve Welfare Of Chickens

EU - Farming ministers have agreed new rules to improve the welfare of chickens across Europe.

For the first time chickens reared for meat production will be covered by strict regulations governing the conditions in which they are kept.

The new EU directive includes:

• the introduction of limits on stocking density
• cross-European Union (EU) training for the industry
• a possible new welfare labelling regime
• cross-EU data collection and scientific monitoring of impacts on welfare (eg genetics)
• action against anyone breaking the rules

Animal welfare minister Ben Bradshaw said:

“This is an unprecedented step, ensuring that this major sector has for the first time a set of strict rules to adhere to. The welfare of meat chickens is a major concern to people throughout the European Union.

“This agreement sends a strong message to the rest of the world that we care about animal welfare.”

Ben Bradshaw added that the UK successfully fought - supported by Sweden, Denmark and other welfare-minded countries - against a further watering down of the proposals led by France.

The Directive will come into force in 2010.

 

ThePoultrySite News Desk

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