The ability to process birds on farms and eliminate live transport offers some compelling benefits to the poultry industry whose customers are increasingly disconnected from animal agriculture.
“I think this disconnect will be a driving force in how farming looks in the future,” reported Karen Christensen, PhD, senior director of animal welfare, Tyson Foods.
“I don’t think we’re in a position to continue doing things the way we are currently.”
Instead, Christensen supports the industry looking for unconventional options like on-farm processing.
“A new concept of completing first processing of broilers at the farm has holistic appeal in the areas of welfare, environment and public perception,” she said during a symposium on alternative slaughter and transport at the 2023 Poultry Science Association conference. Read more