Kenyans Cautioned Against Buying Fried Chicken

A plate of fried chicken and fries
A plate of fried chicken and fries.
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Kenyans have been urged to take caution when buying fried chicken from some of the big brands operating locally.

A report by World Animal Protection dubbed The Pecking Order 2021 released on Wednesday, August 5, indicated that some of the brands handled their poultry poorly hence endangering the lives of the consumers.

Some of the brands, especially those operating locally, scored zero percentage points in the manner in which they handle the chicken since inception.

From the five brands that are in Kenya, three scored zero points while Kenya ranked number 14 out of the 14 countries that were included in the report.

Chicken reared en masse in a farm
Chicken reared at a farm in Kajiado County by a private citizen.
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Farm in Kenya

"Kenyan companies in The Pecking Order 2021 are the lowest scorers. The country places 14th out of the 14 countries included in the assessment, with an average company score of 2%," read the report in part.

When questioned about the objectives on improving chicken handling, most of the companies on the list did not show the blue print.

The brands had been challenged to commit to higher-welfare farming methods using chicken breeds that grow at healthier rates.

They were also asked to allow chickens to enjoy meaningful environments with more space, natural light, and enrichment to provide stimulation.

"Fast food companies are some of the biggest buyers of factory farmed chicken. Yet despite these farms mistreating animals, using up precious resources and even risking our health, too many brands keep buying from them," added the report.

The report further indicated that the poor handling may result in low quality meat that may, in some cases, cause diseases when consumed.

The problem is exacerbated by lack of regulation governing the sector locally. Globally, big brands like McDonalds were also found culpable.

Speaking to the press, a representative of World Animal Protection indicated that the ranking would be spread to medium-sized organisations as well as supermarkets.

"We started by ranking the eight big first food restaurants and we are hoping to expand the ranking into retailers, supermarkets and producers in the country in the coming years.

"The idea is to raise awareness among consumers so that they understand that there are aspects around animal welfare that they need to ensure that the restaurant or fast food retailer they are working with is able to manage and is reporting adequately about," he stated.

A person holding a piece of fried chicken.
A person holding a piece of fried chicken.
Twitter
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