Compassion is pleased to report that Sodexo has signed up to the European Chicken Commitment, reinforcing the group’s animal welfare policy.

As part of their broader corporate responsibility roadmap, Sodexo already has a solid animal welfare framework with significant commitments in place, such as a global cage-free pledge for their shell and liquid eggs.

Today, they have taken another significant step as they commit to source 100% of their chicken meat from systems compliant with the criteria set out in the European Chicken Commitment, across all of their European operations, by 2026.

They join other leaders in the market (Waitrose, M&S, Unilever, Nestlé, Danone, Elior Group) who have all made the same higher welfare pledge, to provide the birds with more space and enrichment, to use approved breeds with proven good welfare outcomes, and to introduce more humane slaughter methods.

Compassion has been working with the Sodexo Group for a number of years and applauds their decision, which will improve the lives of millions of broiler chickens in their European supply chain.

Amélie Legrand, Senior Food Business Manager at Compassion commented: “Sodexo has always taken animal welfare seriously and this latest pledge builds on what is already a very strong animal welfare strategy.

Their presence in 72 countries and their strong relationships with clients and suppliers put them in a unique position to make such a strong commitment. We look forward to continuing our close working relationship and supporting them in the effective implementation of these new standards in the months and years to come”

View Sodexo’s European Broiler Chicken position paper here.

Sodexo signs up to the European Chicken Commitment