Hessen Eases Rules for Direct Sale of Fresh Poultry - Hesse lifts ban on direct poultry sales to boost small farmers
Hesse has relaxed its rules on the direct sale of fresh poultry to consumers. The change, introduced by the Hessian Ministry for Environment, Rural Areas, and Consumer Protection, now permits farmers to sell whole birds and processed products directly. Previously, such sales were banned across the region.
The move comes as small-scale poultry producers face ongoing challenges. Many lack access to large slaughterhouses, which often refuse to handle small batches or are located too far away. As a result, farmers frequently slaughter birds themselves but struggled to sell whole fresh chickens, stewing hens, or cockerels under the old regulations.
The policy shift opens new opportunities for small-scale poultry farmers in Hesse. They can now legally sell both fresh and processed chicken products without relying on distant directv slaughterhouses. The change is expected to benefit producers who previously faced strict limitations on direct marketing.
