KFC, Nando’s, and Others Ditch Chicken Welfare Pledge
Major restaurant chains, including KFC and Nando’s, have decided to withdraw from an essential commitment aimed at improving chicken sourcing standards in the UK as the demand for poultry skyrockets. Here’s an overview of the situation:
– Withdrawal from the Better Chicken Commitment: Eight restaurant groups, including the owners of Nando’s and Burger King, have exited the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC). This initiative was designed to end the use of fast-growing chicken breeds.
– Shift to the Sustainable Chicken Forum: These businesses have instead joined the industry-led Sustainable Chicken Forum (SCF), which does not mandate the phasing out of fast-growing chickens.
– Animal Welfare Concerns: Animal welfare advocates criticize the decision, labeling fast-growing franken-chickens as problematic. These chickens mature more quickly but suffer from higher rates of premature death and various muscle diseases.
– Industry Justification: UKHospitality, the trade body representing these restaurant brands, stated that the new plan will help reduce emissions, ensure secure supply chains, and meet the increasing demand for lean protein. They maintain that businesses are still committed to enhancing animal welfare and environmental efforts.
– KFC’s New Direction: KFC, which accounts for approximately 4% of the UK chicken supply, previously announced plans to phase out fast-growing chicken by 2024. However, they completely withdrew from the BCC recently, citing supply chain issues for slower-growing poultry as a significant barrier.
– Animal Welfare Group Reactions: Connor Jackson, CEO of Anima International, vehemently criticized the rationale behind this shift, stating it revolves around financial gain rather than animal welfare. He emphasized that more producers would supply higher-welfare options if guaranteed contracts were in place.
– Concerns About Welfare-Washing: Claire Williams from The Humane League UK pointed out that the Sustainable Chicken Forum appears to be more about public relations than genuine welfare improvements, designed to appease critics while allowing companies to maintain their profit margins.
– Industry Perspective: Richard Griffiths, head of the British Poultry Council, welcomed the shift. He argued that amid rising production costs and slow planning approvals, the industry must avoid additional financial burdens.
– Market Dynamics: Despite a growing number of takeaway chicken shops in the UK, major supermarkets remain the largest purchasers of poultry. Notably, retailers like M&S and Waitrose, along with cafes like Pret and Greggs, continue to support the BCC.
As legislative debates over animal welfare intensify, the actions of KFC, Nando’s, and their counterparts will continue to draw scrutiny. The contrast between profit motives and genuine animal welfare efforts remains a critical topic within the poultry industry.