The Story
How to buy a happy chicken
Apr 8, 2025
Harry Wallop, a columnist and feature writer for The Times, discusses the UK's chicken obsession, diving into fresh insights on welfare standards. He highlights the ongoing shift toward slower-growing chickens that promise better living conditions. The conversation touches on the cultural significance of chicken shops like Morley's and their role as community hubs, while also addressing the economics of ethical chicken production. Wallop unveils the challenges of raising backyard chickens, juxtaposing idealized visions with harsh realities.
23:52
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Quick takeaways
- The shift to faster-growing chicken breeds has drastically reduced production costs, making chicken increasingly popular among UK consumers.
- Current animal welfare concerns in chicken farming highlight the need for consumers to prioritize ethical sourcing over just price considerations.
Deep dives
The Rise of Chicken Consumption
Chicken has become the dominant meat choice in the UK, largely due to its affordability and versatility. Historically, poultry was a rare dish, with only about 1% of households consuming it for special meals in the 1960s. The introduction of the Chicken of Tomorrow contest in the United States revolutionized chicken breeding, leading to faster-growing breeds that became widely adopted, drastically reducing production costs. This shift not only made chicken more accessible but also contributed to its rising popularity as a preferred protein source across various demographics.
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