PHILADELPHIA- Aramark called on its suppliers to implement additional practices to improve the treatment of broiler chickens on Nov. 3. This announcement was in conjunction with the Humane Society of the US (HSUS) and Compassion in World Farming.
Since 2015, Aramark has required its suppliers to provide an environment consistent with the “Five Freedoms” of animal welfare developed by the Farm Animal Welfare Committee (FAWC). The company’s policy covers the care and treatment of farm animals, including rapid growth, confinement and painful procedures.
“A cornerstone of our corporate responsibility platform is a longstanding commitment to sustainable sourcing with a priority on the well-being of animals raised by our independent suppliers," said Scott Barnhart, Aramark's senior vice president, global supply chain, and procurement. “That commitment is constantly evolving and serves as the foundation for what we expect from our suppliers.”
The new standards include:
• Transitioning to strains of birds that measurably improve welfare issues associated with fast growth rates per the Global Animal Partnership's (GAP) standards;
• Reducing maximum stocking density equal to or less than 6 lbs. per sq. ft. per GAP standards;
• Providing chickens with environments that include natural light, hay bales and perches that meet GAP standards.
• Evaluating with animal welfare organizations over the next year issues related to litter quality, lighting, air quality, and other environmental conditions; and
• Rendering chickens unconscious before shackling using controlled atmosphere stunning (CAS).
