Contemporary trends in broiler meat production in North America: A literature review

Global broiler meat production is increasing at a faster rate than any other type of meat. The United States is the largest producer of broiler meat worldwide. In 2022, the USA, together with Canada and Mexico, accounted for 20% of the total global broiler meat production. This study aimed to analyse and summarise the literature on contemporary trends in broiler chicken production technologies in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The study employed methods of analysis, synthesis, and content analysis. It was found that among the North American countries, the USA ranks first in both the number of chickens and broiler meat production. Globally, in 2022, the total chicken population was 26,561,634.0 thousand birds. China held the first position (5,185,477.0 thousand birds), with the USA in fifth place (1,528,000.0 thousand birds), Mexico in eighth (611,202.0 thousand birds), and Canada in 29th (173,942.0 thousand birds). In the global rankings of broiler meat producers in 2022, the USA was first, Mexico seventh, and Canada 22nd. A consistent increase in broiler meat production was observed in North American countries over the period 2018-2022. In 2022, the USA produced 20,652,970.91 tonnes of broiler meat, Canada 1,332,967.57 tonnes, and Mexico 3,668,552.28 tonnes. The leading producers of meat products in the USA and across North America are Tyson Foods, Cargill, and Bell & Evans. The most common broiler breeds used in North American poultry farming are Cobb and Ross. A comparative analysis of the performance of the Cobb-500 and Cobb-700 breeds indicated that Cobb-500 broilers outperform in terms of live weight. Overall, Cobb-700 broilers exhibit slower growth rates, with a production cycle extending up to 63 days. The predominant production method involves raising broilers on litter-based floor systems. Researchers from South American universities are conducting various studies that address contemporary challenges in meat poultry production. These studies focus on issues such as housing, feeding, welfare, health, and carcass quality of broilers