In this podcast episode, we delve into the dramatic evolution of the American chicken industry, tracing its journey from small farms to massive industrial operations. We discuss how antibiotics and selective breeding have led to the production of larger, meatier chickens, paving the way for popular processed products like chicken nuggets. The conversation then turns to the "tournament system" of contract farming, where major companies dominate production while farmers face significant financial risks and limited control, often resulting in exploitation and hardship. We also draw comparisons to the pig farming sector, highlighting a broader trend known as "chickenization," which shifts risks onto workers while concentrating profits among a few at the top.
