Productive Performances of Slow-Growing Chicken Breeds and Their Crosses with a Commercial Strain in Conventional and Free-Range Farming Systems

Simple Summary Poultry farming is set to expand in the future, and consumers are requiring more sustainable and ethical products. Free-range farming systems produce high-quality meat and also present added value in terms of welfare, sustainability, small-scale farmers' development, and ethical farming. Local chicken breeds should be used in organic and free-range farming, but they have long growth periods. As found in the present study, crossbreeding could improve growth results, thus safeguarding local chicken biodiversity. Local chicken breeds play a vital role in promoting sustainability by preserving genetic diversity, enhancing resilience, and supporting local economies. These breeds are adapted to local climates and conditions, requiring fewer external resources and inputs for their maintenance. By conserving and utilizing local chicken breeds, sustainable farming practices can be incentivized, maintaining ecosystem balance and ensuring food security for future generations. The present study aimed at evaluating the growth performance and slaughter traits of two local Italian chicken breeds (Bionda Piemontese and Robusta Maculata) and their crosses with a medium-growth genotype (Sasso chicken(& REG;)) reared in conventional and free-range farming systems. The conventional system used a high-energy high-protein diet in a closed barn with controlled temperature, humidity, and lighting, and a stocking density of 33 kg/m(2). The free-range system used a low-input diet (low-energy low-protein diet composed of local and GMO-free feed ingredients), uncontrolled environmental conditions, and a stocking density of 21 kg/m(2) in a barn with free access to an outdoor area. The birds were slaughtered at 84 days of age in both systems. The crossbred chickens showed the best results for growth performance in both farming systems compared to local breeds. Within genotype, the final live weight of chickens was similar in the two farming systems. In conclusion, slow-growth crossbreeds should be used in alternative farming systems, demonstrating better performance than pure local breeds.

Automated summary

Poultry farming is expanding and consumers want more sustainable and ethical products. Free-range farming systems provide high-quality meat and additional benefits in welfare, sustainability, farmers' development, and ethical practices. Crossbreeding in organic and free-range farming can improve growth and preserve local chicken biodiversity, promoting sustainability and food security for future generations.