PASTURE-BASED POULTRY FARMING: APPROACH FOR ANIMAL WELFARE, NUTRITIONAL QUALITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

Pasture-based poultry farming has emerged as a promising sustainable alternative to conventional indoor farming methods, offering potential benefits in terms of animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and nutritional quality of poultry products. This comprehensive review aims to summarize and analyze the existing literature on pasture-based poultry farming, providing insights into its advantages, challenges, and future research directions. Numerous studies have consistently reported pasture-based system in promoting animal welfare by allowing chickens to exhibit their natural behaviors, reducing stress levels, and enhancing overall health. Moreover, pasture-raised poultry products have demonstrated superior nutritional profiles, characterized by elevated levels of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. The environmental benefits of pasture-based systems include enhanced soil fertility, reduced soil erosion, and lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional indoor systems. However, successful implementation of pasture-based systems requires careful management practices, addressing concerns related to predator control, disease risks, and labor requirements. This review underscores the importance of further research to optimize pasture-based poultry farming, fill knowledge gaps, and promote its sustainable adoption in meeting consumer demand for ethically and sustainably produced poultry products.