Tesco has met its commitment to ensure that all its fresh British chicken is now sourced from birds that have 20% more space than the industry standard.

The supermarket chain said the change ensures customers can meat from birds that are raised with more space to perch, move around and express their natural behaviours, while maintaining the same value.

To help support British agriculture, the retailer has reaffirmed its commitment to sourcing all its fresh chicken from UK farms. It will also provide additional financial support to its suppliers and farmers, of around £50 million a year, to help implement the enhancements in chicken welfare.

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The enhancements build on Tesco’s existing higher welfare brands, such as Finest, Slower Grown, and Organic, which already include more space for birds to roam around.

The move will ensure birds continue to have increased access to environmental enrichment such as straw bales, perches, pecking objects and natural light.

Tesco group quality and sustainability director Claire Lorains said: “We are committed to continuously improving animal welfare and standards, while maintaining great value and quality for customers. We’ve worked closely with our British farmers to ensure all our core fresh chicken meets higher welfare standards, providing 20% more space than the industry norm.”

“This commitment not only supports British agriculture but also significantly enhances welfare standards across the UK’s poultry industry. Customers can buy high-quality chicken, while still enjoying the same great value.”