The RSPCA has been cracking down on chicken wing welfare since September 2025 with strict new standards to reconstruct how poultry is caring for.
One important change is the introduction of a residential confinement emergency response plan to manage situations where free-range birds need to be temporarily housed indoors, such as during an outbreak of illness.
Additionally, there have been significant changes in antibiotic use policies, with updated standards in the assurance scheme emphasizing prevention over treatment.
The routine preventive use of antibiotics is prohibited, and agriculture will be required to conduct an annual review of antibiotic use as part of the veterinarian health and welfare programme.
To enhance welfare surveillance at slaughterhouses, the new guidelines strongly recommend the adoption of AI technology and CCTV upgrades.
RSPCA is currently reviewing intelligent camera surveillance systems designed to detect welfare issues in real time during processing.
Additionally, there is a new recommendation to install the veranda in a free range chicken unit to promote natural distance behavior, improve the quality of waste, and provide a semi-outdoor shelter for the birds.
According to the Assurance Scheme, the revised standards are based on the latest scientific research and veterinary expertise.
“We are committed to providing a range of services that are important to us,” said Neil Scott, Assistant Director of Certification at RSPCA Assued.
“All RSPCAs have ensured that members want the best one for the animals they care for. We hope that these updated standards will help them continue to achieve their higher welfare goals.”
Members seeking guidance on updated standards can contact the RSPCA Assured Farming and Technical Engagement team through the organization’s online membership service.
