Co-op faces renewed pressure to stop the use of ‘Frankenchickens’ as members push for ethical reform

Backed by renowned naturalist and broadcaster, Chris Packham, and co-signed by around 300 other Co-op members, the motion calls on the retailer to stop selling fast-growing breeds of chickens known for their severe health and welfare issues.

These birds—commonly dubbed ‘Frankenchickens’—have been the subject of widespread criticism from animal welfare advocates. Due to their fast growth, designed to make as much profit as possible, Frankenchickens suffer from a range of health problems and many can’t even walk as their legs can’t hold their weight.

In 2023, a staggering 96% of voting Co-op members supported a similar proposal to adopt the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC), a set of welfare criteria including stopping the use of fast-growing breeds. Despite the overwhelming vote, Co-op’s leadership failed to act on breed, sparking frustration among members who feel they’ve been let down by the so-called democratic process that Co-op promotes.

Instead, Co-op made the decision to give chickens in their farms more space. This incremental change will reduce some of the birds' suffering. It is a good step in the right direction.

However, they are still using Frankenchickens, whose genetics plague the animals with lameness, deformities and early deaths - a lifetime of unavoidable suffering. Changing the breed is fundamental to transforming the lives of chickens raised for meat.

Not acting on member wishes, as well as the use of animals with suffering coded into their DNA is in direct contrast to Co-op’s self-proclaimed ethical values.

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The Co-op is supposed to be a co-operative, where we get to have our say in how the business is run. If our opinions are not taken seriously by the board, what does this say for democracy at the Co-op?

~ Chris Packham

Last year, tensions boiled over when members disrupted the Co-op Annual General Meeting (AGM) in protest against the retailer's continued use of Frankenchickens.

The motion would improve the lives of millions of chickens raised by Co-op each year. It would also ensure Co-op lives up to its ‘ethical’ principles and keeps up with industry leaders M&S and Waitrose, which have already implemented the BCC and stopped selling Frankenchickens.

It’s a vital step in restoring trust in the Co-op and aligning it with member expectations and ethical commitments.

Eligible members have until 12th May to cast their votes. The results of the vote will be revealed during the Co-op AGM on 17th May. Will you be voting on the motion?

Although voting has now closed, you can still join us to keep up to date with our campaign for chickens.