Jean-François LeGrand

Jean-François LeGrand, Sustainability Director, Tyson Foods Europe tells Fast Food Professional magazine how at Tyson Foods, animal welfare is upheld as a core value that drives our mission

Jean François has extensive experience in the protein sector, covering fish, dairy, beef cattle, and poultry. His background spans both the upstream part of the value chain (farm operations) and the manufacturing side.

Q. How does Tyson Foods define its responsibility toward animal welfare?

A. Tyson Foods embraces a deep moral and ethical responsibility to ensure proper care for all animals entrusted to the company. This commitment is grounded in science-based standards, best management practices and rigorous implementation, enforcement and verification across all operations. Animal welfare is not a compliance task — it’s a core value embedded in daily decision-making.

Q. What frameworks guide Tyson Foods’ approach to animal welfare?

A. Tyson Foods acknowledges the importance of the Five Freedoms and is actively evolving its welfare strategy by integrating the Five Domains Framework across global operations. The Five Domains:

• Nutrition

• Physical environment

• Health

• Behavioral opportunities collectively shape the fifth

  domain — the animal’s mental state.

This framework allows Tyson Foods and its supply chain partners to better assess and communicate welfare outcomes across a continuum rather than a simple pass/fail model.

Q. How does Tyson Foods ensure that welfare standards are consistently implemented?

A. The company works closely with internal and external experts to develop comprehensive best management practices. These practices align with current science, Tyson Foods’ Core Values, the Code of Conduct, the Supplier Code of Conduct and all applicable laws and regulations. Robust programs cover facility design, equipment, maintenance and all human–animal interactions. Ongoing training, qualifications, on-the-job observations and coaching ensure that team members understand and comply with welfare expectations, including a Zero Tolerance policy for animal abuse.

Q. What verification processes do Tyson Foods use to ensure compliance across its supply chain?

A. Tyson Foods employs both internal and third-party verification for farms and harvesting operations. These verification programs confirm that suppliers act responsibly and maintain aligned welfare standards. This dual-layer approach strengthens accountability and provides transparency to customers, partners and the public.

Q. How does Tyson Foods drive continuous improvement in animal welfare?

A. The company invests in research, innovation, staffing and capital to advance welfare practices and technologies. Tyson Foods sets measurable goals, monitors progress and transparently reports key welfare indicators on a regular basis. By continually evaluating emerging technologies and scientific insights, the company ensures its animal welfare policies remain current and forward-looking.