Retail supermarket Tesco has recently announced a pledge to provide all fresh chickens with 20% space than the industry standard, with the aim to reach that target during the first six months of 2025.
The current industry standard means that stocking density for chickens must not exceed 38kg/m². However, with Tesco set to provide 20% more space, this will improve poultry welfare standards.
Natalie Smith, head of sustainable agriculture and fisheries at Tesco, said: "We know how much our customers care about animal welfare, and we’re committed to improving standards across our ranges wherever possible, while maintaining great value and quality for customers.
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“That’s why over the course of the next year, all our core fresh chicken will be grown to higher welfare standards, with over 20% more space than the industry standard.”
She continued: “This move reaffirms our commitment to British agriculture and is a significant step-up in welfare standards for the poultry industry in the UK. Thanks to this move, customers can continue to make better, more sustainable choices while still enjoying the same great value."
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