Major UK restaurant chains including Nando's and KFC have withdrawn from a commitment to source chicken from slower-growing breeds, citing supply constraints. The move affects eight major food groups that had previously pledged to improve animal welfare standards in their supply chains. This represents a significant reversal in the industry's approach to chicken welfare.

Food companies had initially embraced the commitment to source from slower-growing breeds, which are considered more humane as they experience fewer health problems than conventional fast-growing chickens. However, supply chain limitations have forced these chains to abandon the pledge. The decision highlights the challenges of implementing welfare improvements across large-scale food operations when faced with practical constraints.

The withdrawal from these welfare commitments raises questions about the feasibility of industry-wide animal welfare initiatives. While consumer demand for ethically sourced food continues to grow, the practical realities of supply chain management appear to be creating significant obstacles. This development may prompt other food companies to reconsider similar pledges, potentially undermining broader efforts to improve animal welfare standards in the poultry industry.