Denmark Moves Toward Ban on Fast-Growing “Turbo” Chickens, Prompting UK Calls for Action

Denmark’s Minister for Nature and Animal Welfare, Christian Rabjerg Madsen, announced a plan to prohibit the farming of fast-growing chickens—referred by campaigners as “frankenchickens” or “turbo chickens.” The proposal targets breeds that reach slaughter weight in 33 to 35 days, which animal-welfare groups say suffer leg disorders, walking difficulties, and heart problems. Madsen told TV 2 that a national ban is the goal, though the government must first assess legal and economic implications. Denmark also intends to seek EU-level restrictions.

Denmark moves to ban ‘frankenchickens’ as UK faces calls to follow suit

Fast-growing chickens dominate the market; campaigners estimate that roughly nine-in-ten chickens consumed in the United Kingdom are still of these breeds. The charity Anima notes that major retailers have begun phasing them out—Waitrose in 2025 and Marks & Spencer in 2024. Anima also criticises KFC and Pret A Manger for not meeting pledged higher-welfare sourcing by 2026. In England, the December 2025 Animal Welfare Strategy supports voluntary moves away from fast-growing breeds but stops short of a compulsory ban. A parliamentary answer earlier this month indicated that Defra is still considering how to facilitate the transition, with no specific timetable set.

Denmark moves to ban ‘frankenchickens’ as UK faces calls to follow suit

Christian Rabjerg Madsen emphasized the desire to work toward a national prohibition while acknowledging the need for a detailed legal and economic review. UK officials, through a recent parliamentary answer, confirmed that ministers continue to explore support mechanisms for moving away from fast-growing breeds, but have not committed to a ban. Wildlife presenter Chris Packham has urged the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Andy Burnham, to use public-sector purchasing power to exclude fast-growing chickens from schools and hospitals.

Denmark moves to ban ‘frankenchickens’ as UK faces calls to follow suit

• “Frankenchickens endure extreme suffering on a daily basis, and Denmark is showing the world what’s possible when politicians take that seriously. For years the UK has utterly failed these birds, leaving them to collapse in agony by the millions.” — Connor Jackson, chief executive of animal welfare charity Anima

Denmark moves to ban ‘frankenchickens’ as UK faces calls to follow suit

• “In Britain we have made efforts to give chickens more space, which is positive. But we’re still breeding these birds far beyond what their bodies can cope with,” — Connor Jackson, chief executive of animal welfare charity Anima

Denmark moves to ban ‘frankenchickens’ as UK faces calls to follow suit