Over a quarter of Sweden's municipalities opt to phase out fast-growing chickens

Municipalities in Sweden are increasingly alarmed by the animal welfare issues prevalent in chicken factories. In Project 1882’s annual ranking of animal-friendly municipalities, over a quarter responded that they will use the option to phase out fast-growing chickens in their next procurement, using a new criterion established by the Swedish National Agency for Public Procurement. Moreover, 17 percent of responding municipalities have reported a reduction in serving of chicken meat, surpassing figures from the previous year. Project 1882 sees great potential for the new criterion to contribute to improved animal welfare and supports the growing momentum of municipal engagement in such initiatives. 

– After the revelations in recent years about systematic suffering at all stages of production in chicken factories, it is very gratifying that the municipalities are now putting their foot down. It sends a clear signal to both the industry and national politicians that fast-growing chickens need to be phased out, says Benny Andersson, CEO of Project 1882.  

Similar to the preceding year, nearly 70 percent of responding municipalities have implemented measures leading to a decrease in meat consumption and a rise in the provision of plant-based options. The adoption of additional meat-free days, where neither meat nor fish is served, is a popular measure. Approximately 20 percent now have multiple meat-free days each week, marking an increase from around 15 percent reported last year.  

According to Project 1882’s ranking, there has also been a notable increase in the percentage of Swedish municipalities consistently offering vegan dishes to students upon request. This increase is largely attributed to the recent recommendations by The Swedish Association of Dietitians – Kost & Näring – who advise public canteens to provide vegan food for all individuals who ask for it. Furthermore, over one-fifth of participating municipalities have increased the proportion of entirely plant-based dishes on their regular menus.  

These are all important decisions that will save many lives while also contributing to the effort to phase out fast-growing chickens. Project 1882’s persistent work to promote the adoption of European Chicken Commitment (ECC) has, in other words, yielded results – with important parts of the ECC now being incorporated into the new criterion established by the Swedish National Agency for Public Procurement. 

 

The ranking of animal-friendly municipalities in Sweden 

The annual ranking relies on a survey assessing the animal-friendly initiatives implemented by municipalities across Sweden. Every municipality is given the chance to participate, showcasing their decisions regarding municipal activities and purchases, particularly emphasizing the food served in schools and preschools. Investments in plant-based food, high animal welfare requirements in the procurement, and purchase of animal products, hold significant weight in determining the rankings. This year’s survey was conducted between November 2023 and March 2024, and 66 percent of Sweden’s municipalities responded to most or all sections of the survey.