Story perspectives

Expert Urges Shift to Healthier Poultry Farming Practices

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ruth Tanner, of World Animal Protection, argues that poultry factory farming relies heavily on cheap imported soya.
The United Kingdom imports over 3 million tonnes of soya annually, primarily from South America, to support poultry.
She notes that modern broilers Ross 308 and Cobb 500 are genetically adapted to this feed, causing health problems.
Tanner advocates slower-growing breeds raised in less intensive systems as a more resilient, humane alternative.

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Story summary

Ruth Tanner, of World Animal Protection, argues that poultry factory farming relies heavily on cheap imported soya.
The United Kingdom imports over 3 million tonnes of soya annually, primarily from South America, to support poultry.
She notes that modern broilers Ross 308 and Cobb 500 are genetically adapted to this feed, causing health problems.
Tanner advocates slower-growing breeds raised in less intensive systems as a more resilient, humane alternative.