World Poultry Day Date in the current year: May 10, 2025

Poultry is the general term for domesticated birds that are raised by humans to produce meat, eggs, and other products. The most common poultry birds are chickens, turkeys, domesticated quails, ducks, geese, guinea fowls and domestic pigeons. Turkeys and pigeons are raised for meat; chickens, quails, and guinea fowls for meat and eggs; and geese and ducks for eggs, meat, and feathers.

Poultry is the second most consumed meat in the world after pork, accounting for about 30% of global meat production. It plays an important role in addressing food insecurity and contributing to global economic development in several ways. First, poultry provides a vital source of protein and supports food security, contributing to the overall health and well-being of entire communities.

Humanitarian organizations, both local and international, recognize that poultry production can significantly benefit the poorest and most vulnerable communities in developing countries. In addition, poultry production promotes national stability and social equity, while also impacting domestic and international trade by influencing export and import values. With the lowest carbon footprint among livestock sectors and lower resource requirements, poultry farming is also a more sustainable agricultural option.

Demand for poultry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. FAO and OECD estimates predict a 15% increase in poultry meat consumption over the next decade, reaching 91 million tons by 2032. This growth will be driven by poultry’s positive social perception, its lower cost compared to other meats, and its healthy balance of high protein and low fat. Chicken, in particular, is expected to see a significant increase in consumption, which is projected to double from 1999 levels due to its affordability and versatility.

World Poultry Day was initiated by the International Poultry Council (IPC), an international organization representing the interests of national industry associations, poultry companies and other industry stakeholders around the world. The celebration was launched in 2012 and has since been held every year on May 10.

The main objective of World Poultry Day is to highlight the importance of poultry in global food security through various events for industry members and the general public. It is the professional celebration of all those involved in the poultry industry, from farmers to distributors, who work together to provide safe, affordable and nutritious food to people around the world.

World Poultry Day also provides an opportunity for stakeholders to address key challenges facing the poultry industry and work together to find optimal solutions. These challenges include disease outbreaks (such as avian influenza), rising feed costs, animal welfare concerns, the environmental impact of the poultry industry, antimicrobial resistance associated with the use of antibiotics in meat production, market volatility and labor shortages.