What is the difference between rearing and sale of free range chicken traditionally reared chicken?

Free Range vs. Traditionally Reared Chicken: Key Differences

The terms "free range" and "traditionally reared" are often used interchangeably, but they describe different standards of chicken farming. Here's a breakdown of their key differences:

Free Range Chicken:

* Outdoor Access: Free range chickens must have access to the outdoors during daylight hours. However, the amount of outdoor space and the quality of it can vary greatly depending on the farm.

* No Cage Confinement: Free range chickens are not kept in cages, but they may still be raised in barns or sheds.

* Density Limits: Free range flocks have density limits, but these can be quite high and the birds may still be crowded.

* Feeding: Free range chickens can eat a diet of commercially produced feed or supplemental feed along with foraging.

* Breeding: Free range chickens can be bred using traditional methods or through modern breeding practices.

Traditionally Reared Chicken:

* Outdoor Access: Traditionally reared chickens may or may not have access to the outdoors, depending on the farm's practices.

* No Cage Confinement: Like free-range, traditionally reared chickens are not confined to cages.

* Density Limits: May have lower density limits than free-range flocks, but this is not always the case.

* Feeding: Focus on traditional feed practices, which may include a diet of grains, vegetables, and insects.

* Breeding: Often involves traditional breeding practices, emphasizing slower growth rates and natural breeds.

Key Differences Summary:

| Feature | Free Range | Traditionally Reared |

|---------------|-----------|--------------------|

| Outdoor Access | Required | May or May Not |

| Cage Confinement| No | No |

| Density Limits | Variable | Variable |

| Feeding | Commercial Feed + Foraging | Traditional Feed |

| Breeding | Variable | Traditional |

Ultimately, the terms "free range" and "traditionally reared" can be misleading. Look for labels and certifications that provide more specific information about the chicken's living conditions and diet.

Important Note: "Free range" and "traditionally reared" are not regulated terms. They can be used without specific standards, so it's important to research the farm's practices if you want to be sure about the chicken's living conditions.