700,000 under-fed chickens seized in Australia

By Melodie Michel

08-Feb-2012 - Last updated on 08-Feb-2012 at 10:01 GMT

Related tags: Chicken, Meat, Livestock, Poultry

The Victorian Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has seized around 700,000 chickens from six broiler farms after receiving reports that they were being under-fed.

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) supported the move, and said the problem came from the feed provider’s financial difficulties.

VFF president Andrew Broad said: “The current situation is distressing and unacceptable to all members of the industry. We believe the DPI has acted appropriately to ensure these birds are looked after.

“We understand that another Victorian processor is discussing with the DPI ways of resolving the current situation to ensure the welfare of the birds. The chicken meat industry is committed to working with the DPI and other agencies for the duration of the present situation.”

Biosecurity Victoria executive director Dr Hugh Miller added that the chickens were now properly cared for, and would be processed for commercial sale once they reach the appropriate condition.

“The animals are disease-free and this incident is unrelated to recent disease outbreaks in poultry flocks,” he added.