Inspection Tour of Poultry Farms Focusing on Chicken and Broiler Welfare

The CERES AWARD 2025 jury embarked on a tour across Germany and Austria, visiting various poultry farms to highlight differences in approaches to animal welfare. The jury, consisting of Prof. Dr. Robby Andersson from HS Osnabrück, Daniel Holling from Big Dutchman, and Martina Hungerkamp from our website, visited beautiful Austria, starting with Michael Sturl, a chicken farmer in Aschbach-Mark.

Michael Sturl, residing on Hendlweg, welcomed the CERES AWARD 2025 jury warmly. His farm, which features lucerne bales in the chicken fattening stable, corresponds to the holding level 2 of the Initiative Tierwohl (ITW). Michael focuses on more animal welfare and has a winter garden for his chickens. The visit concluded with a delightful midday barbecue with the family and employees.

In Großenrode, Lower Saxony, the jury visited poultry farmer Jörg Penk. Jörg's farm combines environment, economy, and social commitment into an impressive living whole. He has 1,850 laying hens and around 1,500 fattening chickens per year on his farm. The visit was accompanied by a camera team from NDR.

Three poultry farmers and one organic laying hen farmer are finalists for the Poultry Farmer of the Year category at the CERES AWARD 2025. Unfortunately, the names of the other two finalists, aside from Michael Sturl, are not available in the provided search results.

The winner of the Poultry Farmer of the Year category will be announced on October 29, 2025, at the Gala evening "The Night of Agriculture" in Berlin. The journey of the CERES AWARD 2025 jury continues, with their next visit scheduled to Philipp Beckhove in Münsterland.

Philipp Beckhove, who has been running the agricultural business for 9 generations, focuses on animal welfare using modern techniques and sustainable cycles. The visit ended on a high note, with the jury learning about Philipp's dedication to his craft and his commitment to the well-being of his animals.

Martina Hungerkamp, a representative from our website, accompanied the CERES AWARD 2025 jury on their tour through Germany and Austria. Her presence ensured that the journey was well-documented, providing insights into the innovative practices and dedication of the finalists in the Poultry Farmer category. The CERES AWARD 2025 aims to recognise and celebrate these efforts, fostering a culture of excellence in poultry farming.