Major Chains Withdraw from Better Chicken Commitment
Several prominent restaurant chains, including KFC, have abandoned their pledge to enhance chicken sourcing standards in the UK amid increasing poultry demand.
Eight restaurant groups, which also encompass the owners of Burger King and Nando's, have exited the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC). This initiative involved a promise to cease using fast-growing chicken breeds. Instead, these groups have joined an industry-led plan that does not include this specific commitment.
Concerns Over Fast-Growing Chickens
Animal welfare organizations have criticized the use of fast-growing chickens, often referred to as "franken-chickens," which mature rapidly but suffer from higher rates of premature death and muscle diseases.
Industry Perspective on New Plan
The trade association UKHospitality stated that the industry-led plan will assist restaurant companies in reducing emissions and meeting the escalating demand for lean protein, while also ensuring stable supply chains.
Allen Simpson, head of UKHospitality, which represents the restaurant brands that have withdrawn from the BCC, said despite the change the businesses are "committed to enhancing their ongoing work across welfare and the environment".
UKHospitality explained that these businesses "no longer believe the BCC is the right framework to drive the next phase of progress on welfare due to the requirement to source only slower-growing breeds." The organization also argued that raising slower-growing breeds results in higher greenhouse gas emissions compared to faster-growing breeds.
Joining the Sustainable Chicken Forum
The eight companies, which own or franchise 18 leading restaurant chains, have instead become members of the industry-led Sustainable Chicken Forum (SCF). Some of the brands involved include Popeyes, Wingstop, and Wagamama.
UKHospitality indicated that the SCF aims to improve welfare standards while minimizing the environmental impact of chicken farming and keeping pace with consumer demand.
Animal Welfare Groups Respond
However, animal welfare organization Anima International criticized the move, stating it was "about money and nothing else."
Connor Jackson, chief executive of Anima International, said the companies' explanation for leaving is rubbish.
"Franken-chickens pose the most serious animal welfare problem in the UK," Jackson said.
KFC's Decision and Industry Context
In 2024, KFC announced it was rescinding its commitment to phase out the purchase of fast-growing chickens. The decision on Thursday marked its complete withdrawal from the Better Chicken Commitment.
The BBC understands that KFC, owned by Yum Brands, purchases approximately 4% of the UK's chicken supply. Currently, there is not a sufficient supply of slower-growing poultry to meet demand.
Richard Griffiths, head of the British Poultry Council, which represents poultry breeders and processors, welcomed the news.
He said that at a time of higher production costs and slow planning approvals the industry did not need added costs.
Market Overview
Despite a recent increase in takeaway chicken outlets in the UK, British supermarkets remain the primary purchasers of poultry. Retailers such as M&S and Waitrose, along with café chains Pret and Greggs, continue to be members of the Better Chicken Commitment.
