Cape Town, 05 May 2025 – FOUR PAWS South Africa is urging industry leaders, policymakers, and the public to address the pressing animal welfare concerns impacting chickens farmed for their meat and eggs. In conjunction with its Egg Petition, FOUR PAWS has released a comprehensive report - #LiveKinder: for Farm Animals in South Africa - detailing the detrimental effects that intensive caging systems have on the physical and psychological wellbeing of chickens.

Every year on May 10th, the world observes World Poultry Day, which was created by the World's Poultry Science Association. The poultry industry in South Africa is increasingly coming under fire for its reliance on high stocking densities, cruel management practices, and lack of space and enrichment afforded to chickens. Chickens confined to small, barren spaces are unable to engage in natural behaviours such as perching, dust bathing, and foraging.  FOUR PAWS’ Report emphasises that such conditions not only compromise the animals’ welfare but also spark broader ethical and sustainability concerns in today’s industry.

The Egg Petition is an initiative designed to promote transparency within the sector. By gathering public support and calling for a shift to transparent and humane food production systems, the petition aims to ensure that the welfare of chickens and consumer rights are prioritised over industrial convenience. The FOUR PAWS Report also serves as a pivotal reminder that humane farming practices are not only a moral imperative, but also essential for the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Miles emphasises the urgent need for reform in the way chickens are housed and cared for within the egg and meat production chain. The findings from FOUR PAWS add to a growing body of evidence that supports the transition to low stocking density and cage-free systems—systems that not only enhance animal welfare but also meet rising consumer demand for ethically produced food.

Globally, many countries and major retailers have committed to phasing out battery cages, with the European Union and several U.S. States banning or restricting their use. In contrast, South Africa’s regulatory framework still permits this outdated practice, along with other high stocking density housing systems, leaving millions of hens to suffer daily.

FOUR PAWS urges South Africans to take action by signing the petition to demand transparency within our food production systems. Conscience consumers play a vital role in shaping the future of farming by choosing higher welfare products and advocating for stronger animal welfare policies.

For more information, please visit our website on www.four-paws.org.za

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