Poultry are domesticated birds raised for meat, eggs, and feathers. Chickens dominate the category, followed by turkeys, ducks, geese, and guinea fowl. Global poultry production has grown faster than any other meat sector since the 1960s, driven by feed efficiency, short generation times, and consumer preference for white meat.

Chickens are split into two industries. Broilers are bred for fast growth and slaughtered at six to eight weeks. Layers produce eggs for a year or more, then go to lower-value markets. Turkeys are raised mostly for holiday markets in the US and Europe. Ducks and geese remain important in China, Southeast Asia, and parts of Europe, especially for foie gras.

Systems in use

• Free-range and pasture-raised
• Barn or cage-free indoor housing
• Conventional cages, now banned in the EU and several US states
• Backyard flocks kept for household eggs

Avian influenza remains the sector's biggest disease threat, capable of wiping out a flock in days. Biosecurity, housing, and vaccination programmes are the main defences.