Avara Foods has successfully transitioned to a new agricultural program, implementing reduced stocking densities across all its supplying broiler farms.
As of April 10th, every broiler farm that supplies Avara Foods now operates at an optimal density of 30 kg per square meter. This change marks a significant reduction from the previous Red Tractor standard, which allowed for densities of up to 38 kg per square meter.
A Key Purchase for UK Consumers
This strategic switch not only enhances animal welfare but also reflects the commitments made by the majority of UK retailers. These retailers are dedicated to providing high-quality, fresh primary chicken—an essential grocery item for over 90% of UK consumers. By adopting lower stocking densities, Avara Foods responds directly to consumer demand for ethically produced poultry.
Chris Hall, the incoming CEO of Avara Foods, emphasized the importance of this transition, stating: “Switching our program to a lower stocking density is another step forward in quality and higher welfare with our customers, supplied here in the UK to standards shoppers can trust. Our retail customers have made a commitment, and we know, through our insight, that consumers are increasingly interested in the welfare and sustainability credentials of the food they buy. That’s why it’s been important for us to carefully manage those requirements: improving welfare while reducing our environmental footprint, all while ensuring that our cost of production remains competitive here in the UK to protect food security for the public.”
Protecting Home-Grown Production
Poultry accounts for over 50% of meat consumption in the UK, highlighting the substantial demand for locally sourced chicken. In light of this, Avara Foods has stated that maintaining high standards is essential for securing a reliable food supply chain for British consumers. Furthermore, the company emphasizes the importance of establishing a level playing field between UK-produced poultry and imported products.
“We already import almost half of the poultry we consume,” Hall noted. “Unless we value and protect our home-grown production, and the standards it represents, we risk becoming overly reliant on other countries, particularly during a time when the global landscape is rapidly evolving. We must prioritize our ability to sustain ourselves in a world fraught with uncertainty, where food security, alongside energy and defence, is critical.”
