Fri, 20 Feb 2026

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 KFC, Nando's, and others ditch chicken welfare pledge

Wingstop, Burger King, and others have walked away from an industry commitment to avoid using fast-growing chickens
Eight major restaurant chains, including KFC and Burger King, have withdrawn from the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC) in favor of an industry-led plan. The BCC aimed to improve chicken sourcing standards by phasing out fast-growing chickens, but the companies argue that this approach is no longer feasible due to environmental concerns. They have joined the Sustainable Chicken Forum (SCF), which focuses on increasing welfare while limiting the environmental impact of chicken farming. The SCF claims that farming slower-growing breeds produces more greenhouse gas emissions than faster-growing breeds. KFC has rescinded its commitment to phase out fast-growing chicken, and other companies such as Popeyes and Wagamama have also withdrawn from the BCC. Animal welfare groups have expressed concern over the decision, stating that fast-growing "franken-chickens" pose serious animal welfare problems. They argue that the industry is prioritizing profits over animal welfare and environmental concerns. UKHospitality, which represents some of the companies involved, says that the SCF will help restaurant firms reduce emissions and meet surging demand for chicken while ensuring secure supply chains. However, critics argue that the new plan is a "welfare-washing" exercise designed to deflect criticism rather than genuinely improving animal welfare.
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