The foodservice companies' new policies address several welfare concerns, most notably the selective-breeding of chickens, which causes the birds to grow grotesquely large in an alarmingly short amount of time and results in crippling injuries, immense suffering, and sometimes death. Details of Aramark's policy include timelines to:
- Transition to breeds of birds that measurably improve welfare issues associated with fast growth rates per Global Animal Partnership's (GAP) standards.
- Reduce maximum stocking density to equal to/less than 6 lbs./sq. ft. per GAP standards.
- Provide chickens with enriched environments including natural light, hay bales and perches that meet GAP standards.
- Evaluate with animal welfare organizations over the next year issues related to litter quality, lighting, air quality, and other environmental conditions.
- Render chickens unconscious prior to shackling using Controlled or Low Atmosphere Stunning.
In light of Aramark's new commitment, The Humane League has placed a moratorium on the hard-hitting campaign that we have been waging since September 27th. If Aramark's specifications related to genetics and environmental conditions are not up to par with The Humane League's minimum standards, the campaign will be reopened and escalated.
Launched only 5 weeks ago, The Humane League's effort against Aramark has been a relentless, national campaign involving thousands of supporters and advocates. Grassroots pressure, social and traditional media, student organizing and more have resulted in this, our largest victory yet.
Like with our cage-free victories against the foodservice industry last year, we look forward to building off of this momentum. Together, with your support, we will create meaningful change for billions of chickens around the world.
Aaron Ross
