LDC’s commitment represents an unprecedented shift in scale for the BCC, in a context where standard broiler farming still dominates in France (about 80%) and in Europe (about 90%)—characterized by high stocking densities (up to 42 kg/m²), fast-growing breeds, and little to no opportunity for natural behavior expression.

A transition already underway

This commitment for the Le Gaulois and Maître CoQ brands is in line with the Nature d’Éleveurs initiative, which LDC has been promoting for several years. That initiative already aimed to improve certain farming conditions, particularly by providing access to natural light and implementing environmental enrichments. However, it did not include the key BCC criteria regarding stocking density and slower-growing breeds.

For Le Gaulois and Maître CoQ, LDC’s announcement strengthens the Nature d’Éleveurs approach by also requiring a stocking density limited to 30kg/m², the use of slower-growing breeds, and more humane slaughter methods.

This step taken by LDC—committing to the full set of BCC criteria for its flagship brands—represents a significant turning point towards a more comprehensive approach to animal welfare.

It is also worth noting that 100% of chickens marketed under the Loué and Nature & Respect brands (also owned by LDC) are already raised with outdoor access and in full compliance with the BCC standards.

In the latest update of its Animal Welfare Policy, LDC reported that over 270,000 chickens per week in 2023 were already produced in accordance with all BCC criteria (mainly for major retail clients), compared to 250,000 in 2022. This demonstrates a gradual shift that is expected to accelerate with the announcement of this commitment.

A milestone for chickens: LDC in France commits to the BCC