Consumer Preferences for Welfare Friendly Production Methods: The Case of Chicken Production in Western Australia

The aim of this study is to investigate consumer preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) for welfare friendly meat chicken products in Western Australia. Data from an internet-based choice experiment on skinless chicken breast is analysed to determine whether consumers care about humane production practices. Majority of respondents are concerned about the welfare of meat chickens. In general, consumers are most concerned about stocking density, hot metal blade beak trimming and poor litter quality. Consumers are WTP substantial premiums for welfare friendly broiler products.