Comparing the profitability of organic and conventional broiler production

Abstract

Recently, organic broiler chicken production has received more attention worldwide. This study has carried out an economic analysis to compare the profitability of organic versus conventional growing systems per unit of broiler meat production. To achieve this goal, 400 slow-growing broiler chickens (Hubbard Red-JA) were reared in an organic production system, and the same number of fast-growing birds (Ross-308) in a conventional system. The profitability was deduced with an economic analysis that compared total costs and net income. Results showed that organic broiler meat can cost from 70% to 86% more with respect to variable and fixed costs when compared with conventional production. The main reasons for the higher cost of organic broiler meat were feed, labor, certification, and outdoor area maintenance. The proportion of fixed costs in total costs was 1.54% in the conventional system and 7.48% in the organic system. The net income per kg of chicken meat in the organic system was € 0.75, which is 180% higher than chicken meat grown in a conventional system (€ 0.27); however, the price of organic broiler meat sold in the present study was twice as high as that obtained for conventional broilers. In conclusion, organic broiler meat production was more profitable than conventional rearing.

Feeding Forage in Poultry: A Promising Alternative for the Future of Production Systems

“…Organic poultry have access to pasture [6,39], a nutrient source that has not been completely investigated for use in poultry. Organic poultry production focuses particularly on animal health and wellbeing, good environmental practices, and product quality and focuses less on economic concerns, such as reducing costs and maximizing production [37,50].…”

Comprehensive analysis of biosecurity practices and antimicrobial use in broiler chicken production by integrated operations in Korea

“… Guarino Amato and Castellini (2022) reported that the organic broiler production system operated according to precise and specific production standards are increasing worldwide. Moreover, demand for organic poultry products, a production system that reduces chemical use and emphasis on animal welfare, has increased as it is perceived to be safer and more nutritious than conventionally raised poultry ( Cobanoglu et al, 2014 ; Niggli, 2015 ). Therefore, the organic-certified broiler production in Korea is also increasing quickly and is expected to continue to grow ( MAFRA, 2020 ).…”

Production Efficiency and Utility Features of Broiler Ducks Fed with Feed Thinned with Wheat Grain

“…In addition to increasing the income relative to feed cost, birds were found to have increased body weights and feed conversion rates in this experimental group [ 37 ]. Attention should also be paid to other factors that significantly affect the profitability and efficiency of production, such as the maintenance system [ 38 ], stocking density per 1 m 2 of surface area [ 39 ], and the use of organic acids or phytobiotics [ 40 ].…”