The Mystery of 597 Million Missing Chickens in the U.S. Food Chain

A report by Animal Equality reveals that 597 million chickens in the US die before reaching the food supply annually, highlighting significant food waste and animal welfare issues. These deaths occur due to diseases, rough handling, and breeding practices that prioritize rapid growth, leading to health problems. The reduction in antibiotic use, aimed at combating antibiotic resistance, has also contributed to rising mortality rates. The poultry industry faces challenges in balancing animal welfare, public health, and production efficiency, with some companies like Perdue Farms adopting measures to reduce mortality without antibiotics.