The assessment of plumage damage and emaciation at slaughterhouse in laying hens

Several animal-based indicators can be collected in slaughterhouses to monitor the level of welfare of laying hens on farm. Among those cited in the EFSA report (2023) are plumage damage and emaciation, which described very well the body condition of end of lay hens. This factsheet defines plumage damage and emaciation in laying hens and proposes methods of assessments adapted to a slaughterhouse assessment.