The role of education and attitudes towards hen welfare: a case study of furnished cages

Abstract

<p>The aim of this research was to develop an understanding of the Australian community's knowledge and perception of hen welfare and furnished cages and to determine the impact of and effectiveness education campaigns in relation to language. Additionally, this research attempted to understand the potential barriers of communication between industry and the Australian community in matters of hen welfare and housing systems. We hypothesised that the community's knowledge of poultry housing and welfare would be low, there would be little awareness of furnished cages and that effectiveness of education campaigns and positive perceptions of furnished cage systems would be related to education and language.</p> <p>Knowledge of hen welfare, management practices and the Australian egg industry was low, suggesting that appropriate education campaigns are likely to improve the dialogue between the Australian community and egg industry. Education treatment groups increased knowledge of hen welfare, management and practices. Language did not impact the level of knowledge scores post treatment. Respondents predominately supported furnished cage housing systems for egg laying hens, but education campaigns were required. There was little evidence to support concerns that the 'a cage is a cage' rhetoric negatively impacts support for furnished cage support in Australia (Weary, Ventura et al. 2016). Therefore, industry may consider investing in RD&E to optimise the furnished cage design for Australian conditions to safeguard hen welfare, worker health and safety, and economics to ensure the industry is ready for transition to such an alternate housing system should the market require.</p> <p>A lack of industry participation in the current study prevented insight into the similarities and disparities in values, language and belief between community and industry stakeholders. This understanding is critical to ensure future dialogue and consultation processes are respectful and productive. Further efforts to increase industry engagement is required to obtain an understanding of the similarities' and differences in language, values and perceptions of hen welfare between industry and the community. We provide some evidence that discussions industry and community stakeholders may be using terminology that is interpreted through differences in experiences, knowledge and values. However, the validity of these findings are questionable because of the low sample size of industry participants. The current industry survey could be altered to focus on differences in language and values regarding hen welfare to provide a greater understanding.</p> <p>Although these data suggest belief can be overcome by education tools, further research is required to determine the specific factors that resulted in an effective education campaign, for example the scientific approach, industry-independent education or short engaging animations. However, there are clear benefits and opportunities for education campaigns that can improve the understanding and support for the Australian egg industry and hen welfare.</p>