(WXIA) -- Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A claims it is no longer partnered with a slaughterhouse accused of animal abuse.
The nonprofit Mercy for Animals conducted an undercover investigation into chicken facilities in two states. Video taken inside the Mississippi farm and Tennessee slaughterhouse shows chickens being slammed into transport crates, having their chests and throats sliced open and entering scalding hot water while they're still alive.
Both facilities are owned by Chicago-based Koch Foods, which once supplied chickens to Chick-fil-A, according to Mercy for Animals.
Chick-fil-A Vice President of Public Relations Carrie Kurlander said the chain no longer receives its chickens from Koch Foods.
"The supplier referenced has not provided any chickens to Chick-fil-A since April of 2013," Kurlander said in a statement emailed to 11Alive News. "As a value-based organization, we strictly partner with suppliers who share in our goal of responsible environmental stewardship, and maintain our values throughout all animal welfare and management practices. We wholly support the humane treatment of all animals and do not condone their mistreatment at any point along the supply chain."
Mercy for Animals held a press conference about its undercover investigation in Atlanta Wednesday, and has been encouraging social media followers to share their message.
The video, which contains disturbing content, is posted to the organization's website.
