Aldi has revealed that it is set to introduce new stocking density requirements for its fresh chicken suppliers.
The transition to the higher welfare standard, which will be complete by the end of October, means that Aldi fresh chicken will have 20% more space than the industry standard. The discounter noted that this would give each animal more space to engage in natural behaviours, including stretching wings, dust bathing and roaming.
All of Aldi’s fresh chicken is sourced from British farms. Separate to the transitioning to higher welfare standards, the retailer has committed to multi-million pound financial support for its chicken farmers and suppliers over the course of 2024/25.
Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, commented: “Animal welfare is of paramount importance to us. We’re already one of the UK’s largest providers of responsibly farmed chicken, and we’ve been working hard with our suppliers to reduce stocking density to help us improve the living conditions of these animals even further.
“Thanks to this latest improvement, customers will be provided with access to higher welfare chicken at the same great value that can’t be matched.”
NAM Implications:
- Added pressure on rivals to follow suit…
