France temporarily eases maize feed rules for Volailles de Gascogne poultry during drought
France has temporarily loosened the feed rules for the Volailles de Gascogne poultry label, a protected geographical indication that certifies where and how the birds are raised. The order, dated 22 October 2026 and published on 30 October 2026, reduces the required maize share in the finishing feed for chicken, capon, poularde, guinea fowl and turkey because of drought. It applies from 1 October 2026 to 31 October 2027.
What does it mean?
Because of drought, the minimum amount of maize that Volailles de Gascogne birds must be fed in their final feeding stage has been temporarily reduced. For farmers raising birds under this label, the feed requirements are eased for a set period.
Who is affected?
Farmers and producers raising poultry under the Volailles de Gascogne label.
What changes?
Previously, the finishing-stage maize minimum was 50% for yellow, 20% for white and 20% for black chicken, capon and poularde, and 30% for guinea fowl, capon of guinea fowl and turkey from day 29. Now it is 25% yellow, 10% white and 10% black, and 15% for guinea fowl, capon of guinea fowl and turkey.