June 17, 2005

USDA: EC proposes new broiler legislation
 

The European Commission has tabled a proposal on May 31 for a Council directive to establish EU animal welfare standards for broilers. The directive, if approved by the Council of Ministers, would set out a maximum "stocking density" of 30 kg per square meter for live birds and establish a number of minimum conditions to ensure adequate welfare conditions. 

These include standards for drinkers, litter, ventilation and heating, noise and light in broiler establishments, but also for inspections, cleaning and record keeping. Water consumption within each production unit must also be recorded on a daily basis.

The directive would not apply to establishments with less than 100 chickens, establishments with breeding stocks of chickens, or hatcheries. The largest EU producers of broilers include the UK, Spain and France.

Mandatory labeling for chicken meat based on animal welfare standards may also be introduced through this proposed directive. When implemented, this labeling requirement will put pressure on third country exporters, including the U.S., to adopt EU animal welfare legislation.

The proposal will now go to the June 20 Farm Council for discussion by the EU's Agriculture Ministers. The Commission hopes to reach an agreement on the legislation by the end of 2005.

For the full USDA report, click here.