Chinese continue to move to higher poultry welfare

Speaking at the presentation of the Compassion in World Farming Food Business awards event in Brussels, Ayoshi Ayongxi said 85 Chinese companies had received awards from Compassion over the past few years for their work on health and welfare.

“This demonstrates that China’s animal husbandry is aligning more with international standards, further developing our brand for higher welfare, higher quality products.

“These awards encourage Chinese producers to continue improving animal welfare and make continuous efforts for the harmonious development of people and society.”

Recognition for welfare work

A total of 17 Chinese producers were recognised this year for their welfare work in the China Production Awards. The Good Chicken Production Award recognises Chinese producers that are making significant commitments to improving the welfare of broilers by meeting 5 basic requirements focusing on:

• More space (maximum stocking density of 33kg/square metre)

• Commitment to end the use of any caged systems

• Providing birds with a suitable environment (including temperature control and good air quality)

• Detailed record keeping

• Food safety requirements

The winners

Winners were Henan Aimu Agriculture Co Ltd (5*), Beijing Bainianliyuan Ecological Agriculture Co. Ltd Member Farm (5*), Guizhou Nayong Yuansheng Animal Husbandry Co. Ltd Free-Range Farms (5*), Nongzhiwan Ecological Agriculture Handan Feixiang District Co. Ltd (3*) and Heilongjiang Chia Tai Enterprise Co. Ltd – Heilongjiang Yongyuan Animal Technology Co. Ltd (3*).

The Good Egg Production Award recognises Chinese producers that are making significant commitments to improving the welfare of laying hens by meeting a further 5 basic requirements that focus on:

• More space (maximum stocking density of less than or equal to 9 hens/square metre)

• Commitment to end the use of caged systems

• Providing the birds with a suitable environment

• One nest box per 4-6 hens

• No artificial moulting and food safety requirements

Mr Wang Wejbing of Nongzhiwan Ecological won a Good Egg Production Award (3*) plus a Good Chicken Production Award (3*). Photo: Compassion in World Farming

Winners were Beijing Bainianliyuan Ecological Agriculture Co. Ltd Member Farm (5*), Guizhou Nayong Yuansheng Animal Husbandry Co. Ltd Ecological Free Range Farms (5*), Nongzhiwan Ecological Agriculture Handan Feixiang District Co Ltd (3*) and Nantong Ovodan Egg Co Ltd (3*). 5* represents the highest accolade.

Mr Wang Shupo from Nantong Ovodan Foods won a Good Egg Production Award (3*). Photo: Compassion in World Farming