Multiperformance of slow-growing and dual-purpose strains in organic chicken production: learning from the PPILOW project
Résumé
Societal expectations about poultry welfare are increasing, in particular regarding the access of birds to an outdoor run. This possibility to express natural behaviours outdoors can challenge animals in terms of health and welfare, affect animal performance and impact on their environment. Slow-growing strains of chickens are currently used in organic production systems, and dual-purpose strains are now available to avoid the culling of layer male chicks. In the frame of the Poultry and PIg Low-input and Organic production system’s Welfare (PPILOW) project, the multiperformance of slow-growing chickens and of males of dual-purpose strains was studied in organic chicken systems. The investigated variables focused on range use, health and welfare indicators, environmental impacts, animal and economic performance, and meat quality. Results showed that a large variability in range use exists, and that many variables can be linked to this indicator. The PPILOW project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement N°816172.
Domaines
Sciences du Vivant [q-bio]| Origine | Fichiers produits par l'(les) auteur(s) |
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