Novel dual-purpose chicken genotypes under organic conditions

Dual-purpose chicken genotypes show lower laying performance but higher meat yield compared to commercial layers and broilers under organic conditions. In the PPILOW project, these birds had 19–25% lower egg production, 17–27% higher meat yield, and required 2–6 weeks longer to reach market weight, increasing feed conversion by 29–45%. Egg prices were 18–43% higher, and meat production costs rose 26–36%, yet product quality remained unaffected. Distinct egg and meat characteristics offer market differentiation potential. Funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Programme (grant agreement N°816172).