Ukraine’s MHP to align operations with EU broiler welfare regulations

UKRAINE – Ukrainian poultry producer MHP is in the process of adjusting its operations to comply with Directive 2007/43/EC, a European Union regulation that governs the welfare of broiler chickens.

The changes come as Ukraine works toward harmonising its animal welfare laws with those of the EU under the framework of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement.

Directive 2007/43/EC, which was established in 2007, sets mandatory standards on the conditions in which broilers are raised, including space allocation, environmental management, and monitoring of animal health.

MHP plans to meet the directive’s requirements by January 1, 2026, including limiting stocking densities to 33 kilograms of live bird weight per square meter.

The company also intends to regulate temperature, humidity, ventilation, ammonia levels, and lighting to maintain an appropriate environment in poultry houses.

In addition, MHP will collect and record data on mortality, footpad dermatitis, and other indicators of animal health and report the information to regulatory authorities.

Staff working in broiler production facilities will also undergo targeted training to meet the competence requirements set out by the directive.

Alongside this directive, MHP is implementing measures to meet other EU regulations, such as Regulation (EC) No. 1099/2009, which relates to the humane treatment of animals at slaughter.

It is also working to comply with Regulations 1/2005/EC and 1099/2009/EC, which deal with the conditions for transporting animals and procedures during slaughter, respectively.

MHP cancels planned investment in Croatia

While aligning with EU requirements, MHP has simultaneously decided to cancel a planned investment project in Sisak, Croatia.

According to the company, a due diligence assessment initiated in early 2023 did not result in an outcome that matched the expectations of MHP and its potential partners.

As a result, the firm, which is listed on the London Stock Exchange, has opted to concentrate its efforts on expanding operations at Perutnina Ptuj, a poultry business it acquired between 2018 and 2019.

Based in Slovenia, Perutnina Ptuj produces fresh poultry as well as processed meat products and is considered a central component of MHP’s regional strategy.

The abandoned Croatian facility had been intended to support local food production, strengthen supply resilience, and provide economic benefits to the area.

MHP has not disclosed the estimated value of the shelved project, but resources allocated to it will now be redirected to development activities in Slovenia.

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