KFC has announced it will not meet its pledge to stop sourcing fast-growing chicken breeds, often referred to as “Frankenchickens,” in the UK by 2026. The fast-food chain, which won praise in 2019 for signing the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC), cited a lack of progress in the poultry industry as the primary reason for the backtrack.
The Controversy Surrounding “Frankenchickens”
Fast-growing chickens are bred to reach slaughter weight in just a few weeks, but their rapid growth has raised significant animal welfare concerns. Critics point to high mortality rates, lameness, and muscle diseases as common issues with these breeds. Each year, over a billion chickens are slaughtered for meat in the UK, many of which come from these faster-growing breeds.
Under the Better Chicken Commitment, KFC pledged to transition to slower-growing breeds and reduce stocking densities to 30kg per square meter or less, providing more space for the birds. However, KFC’s 2024 progress report revealed that only 1% of its chickens were sourced from slower-growing breeds.
Supply Chain Challenges
Ruth Edge, KFC UK and Ireland’s head of sustainability, stated during the Egg and Poultry Industry Conference that the 2026 target was unachievable.
“We’re not saying we’re never going to,” she said. “But for 2026, and the way the market has developed—or lack of—it’s not going to be possible.”
KFC attributed the issue to insufficient supply, noting that farmers have been slow to adopt slower-growing breeds due to the higher costs involved.
Backlash from Animal Welfare Groups
The decision has sparked outrage among animal welfare advocates. Katie Ferneyhough of the Humane League UK called the use of “Frankenchickens” the “biggest animal welfare crisis of our time” and vowed to protest KFC’s decision.
“We will not rest until KFC comes to the table and sets out a new timeline for adopting the Better Chicken Commitment,” Ferneyhough said.
Connor Jackson, co-founder of Open Cages, criticized KFC’s lack of progress, stating: “The fact that KFC has made less than 1% progress on removing Frankenchickens from its supply chain is very concerning.”
Industry-Wide Issues
While KFC faces criticism, it argues that achieving the Better Chicken Commitment depends on systemic changes within the poultry industry.
Rudi Van Schoor, KFC Europe’s chief supply chain officer, explained: “The reality, at the moment, is that the UK poultry industry is not yet in an operational and commercial position to deliver the Better Chicken Commitment by 2026. But we remain committed to the framework.”
Commitment from Other Brands
KFC’s decision contrasts with the actions of other companies like Marks & Spencer, Burger King, Subway, Nando’s, and Greggs, which have pledged to meet the Better Chicken Commitment’s 2026 deadline. These companies are also subject to third-party audits to ensure compliance.
The Path Forward
Animal welfare groups, including the RSPCA, continue to pressure KFC to prioritize transitioning to slower-growing breeds, emphasizing the severe health and welfare issues faced by fast-growing chickens.
“The poultry industry must make meaningful strides toward humane practices,” an RSPCA spokesperson said.
Key Takeaways
- KFC will not meet its 2026 goal to source slower-growing chickens in the UK, citing inadequate supply from the poultry industry.
- Critics argue that KFC’s backtracking undermines its commitment to animal welfare and highlights broader industry challenges.
- Animal welfare organizations are calling for renewed timelines and industry-wide reform to phase out the use of “Frankenchickens.”
