Aviagen‘s Rustic Gold bird has been accepted for use under RSPCA Assured animal welfare scheme, joining other slower-growing breed options in qualifying for the European Chicken Commitment.
Aviagen®, one of the global market leaders in poultry genetics, has announced that its Rustic Gold™ bird has been accepted for use under the RSPCA Assured animal welfare scheme. The Rustic Gold is the latest addition to Aviagen’s Rowan Range® of slower-growing and colored breed options to be awarded the accreditation, alongside the previously approved Ranger Gold® and Ranger Classic®. According to the company, with a mix of brown and white plumage, the slower-growing Rustic Gold brings a balance of outstanding welfare and performance, combined with strong feed efficiency.
To be accepted under the RSPCA Assured standard, chicken breeds are evaluated by an independent organization. Various welfare outcomes are assessed to ensure breeds demonstrate the highest welfare outcomes.
BREEDING FOR WELFARE AND SUSTAINABILITY
Aviagen European Director of Research and Development, Dr. Brendan Duggan explains: “Both our conventional and slower-growing breeds are selected for health, welfare and sustainability characteristics as part of our balanced breeding approach.”
“Aviagen continues to work closely with the RSPCA and other organizations across Europe as we continue to enhance welfare across our entire choice of breeds,” Duggan adds.
IMPORTANCE TO UK AND EUROPEAN MARKET
RSPCA approval has great significance, not only for the UK, but also for the wider European market. With RSPCA accreditation, the Rustic Gold joins the Ranger Gold and Ranger Classic in qualifying for the European Chicken Commitment (ECC) as a result of the outstanding welfare of the breed, Aviagen notes.
BREEDING CHOICE
Aviagen offers a diverse range of breeds to give customers choice in the markets in which they serve.
Aviagen European President Patrick Claeys comments: “We are delighted that the Rustic Gold is being recognized within the RSPCA Assured standard.”
