NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. – As an extension to its commitment to working with poultry suppliers that comply with next-level animal welfare practices, Chipotle Mexican Grill has joined the European Chicken Commitment, a consortium of interest groups in Europe with the goal of implementing a higher level of humane handling throughout its supply chain, by 2026. The new standards will be applied to operations in Europe, Canada and in the US.

Utilizing standards formalized by the Global Animal Partnership (GAP), Chipotle is requiring its poultry suppliers to comply with practices that ensure the use of slower-growing birds; more space for chickens during production; housing conditions that are conducive to natural behaviors; utilizing slaughtering technology based on controlled atmosphere stunning (CAS).

“Excellence in animal welfare has been in Chipotle's DNA since it was founded and continues to be a top priority for us more than 25 years later,” said Yael Cypers, manager of the animal welfare program at Chipotle.

The company operates more than 2,500 restaurants in the US, Canada, France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

“We are pleased to be extending our commitment to now include Europe and Canada,” said Cypers.