3 November – Today, Aramark, has committed to improving the lives all of the chickens in their supply chains by 2024.

This new policy will affect the many millions of meat chickens in Aramark’s supply chain across the US. Aramark has committed to take the following actions by 2024, or sooner if possible:

Transitioning to strains of birds that measurably improve welfare issues associated with fast growth rates per Global Animal Partnership’s (GAP) standards.
Reducing maximum stocking density to equal to/less than 6 lbs./sq. ft. per GAP standards.
Providing chickens with enriched environments including 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.
Rendering chickens unconscious prior to shackling using Controlled or Low Atmosphere Stunning.

Scott Barnhart, Aramark’s Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain and Procurement, said:“A cornerstone of our corporate responsibility platform is a longstanding commitment to sustainable sourcing with a priority on the wellbeing of animals raised by our independent suppliers. That commitment is constantly evolving and serves as the foundation for what we expect from our suppliers.”

Rachel Dreskin, US Head of Food Business, said: “We heartily applaud Aramark’s commitment and look forward to continuing to partner with them as they transition over the next eight years. This decision will help catalyze enormous change, not only for the chickens in their supply chain, but also for the nearly 9 billion chickens that are farmed each year in the U.S.”

Food Service giant Aramark commits to Better Chicken