KFC, Nando’s, and Others Ditch Chicken Welfare Pledge
Major restaurant chains, including KFC, have recently abandoned their commitment to enhance chicken sourcing standards in the UK amid soaring poultry demand. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:
– Withdrawal from BCC: Eight prominent restaurant groups, including the owners of Burger King and Nando’s, have withdrawn from the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC). This was a pledge aimed at eliminating the use of fast-growing chicken breeds in favor of more humane options.
– Rise of Fast-Growing Franken-Chickens: Animal welfare advocates highlight that fast-growing chickens mature quickly but face higher rates of premature death and muscle diseases. Critics label these chickens as franken-chickens due to their health issues.
– Industry-Led Plan: UKHospitality, the trade body representing the industry, states that the new industry-led plan aims to help restaurant firms minimize emissions while meeting the rising demand for lean protein. They argue it will also ensure robust supply chains.
– Commitment to Welfare: Allen Simpson, CEO of UKHospitality, insists that even with the change, participating businesses remain dedicated to enhancing animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
– Sustainable Chicken Forum (SCF): The eight businesses have shifted their focus to the Sustainable Chicken Forum (SCF), dismissing the BCC framework as suitable for future progress due to its strict breeding requirements.
– Environmental Concerns: The SCF argues that slower-growing chicken breeds could result in higher greenhouse gas emissions, prompting their departure from the BCC.
– KFC’s Rescinded Commitment: In 2024, KFC had already indicated its intention to stop phasing out fast-growing chickens. The recent decision marks a complete withdrawal from the BCC.
– Market Dynamics: Currently, KFC is responsible for about 4% of the UK chicken supply. An industry insider stated there isn’t enough slower-growing poultry available in the UK at this time.
– Animal Welfare Backlash: Connor Jackson, CEO of Anima International, criticized the changes as financially motivated, asserting that the supply issue stems from a lack of contracts for more expensive, higher-welfare chickens.
– Profit Over Welfare: Claire Williams, from The Humane League UK, believes the shift to the SCF is a profit-driven decision by major food companies. She argued that the BCC was scientifically designed to enhance animal welfare, while the SCF functions as a mere public relations maneuver.
– Industry Support: Richard Griffiths, head of the British Poultry Council, welcomed the news, suggesting that current economic pressures and slow planning processes made the transition away from the BCC necessary.
In the midst of a growing number of takeaway chicken outlets, British supermarkets remain the primary purchasers of poultry. Notably, retailers like M&S and Waitrose, along with cafe chains such as Pret and Greggs, continue to support the BCC.
As the conversation around chicken welfare progresses, it’s essential for consumers to recognize the implications of these commitments—or lack thereof—on animal welfare standards across the industry.