Measuring The Sustainability Of Different Poultry Production Systems
This study compared three types of poultry farms (conventional, organic, and organic-plus) on economic, social, environmental and quality factors. Organic-plus was the best system for consumers who valued quality and animal welfare, while organic was the best system for producers who emphasized economic output. The worst animal welfare was found in organic systems with fast-growing birds, indicating that organic systems do not necessarily improve animal welfare.
Excerpt from Article Abstract:
“This study aimed to analyze the sustainability of different poultry production systems and was intended as an integrated systems approach to address human food needs, environmental preservation, economic feasibility and quality of life. The sustainability of the following three poultry production systems was compared: conventional, organic and organic-plus (this category is comprised of more restrictive requirements to improve animal welfare and meat quality).”
“The analyzed farming systems showed different results based on the stakeholder being considered (scientists, consumers and producers). The OP system showed the best performance when economic, social and environmental dimensions were integrated following the scientist and consumer stakeholders criteria.”