People often laugh at small accidents because it breaks the tension. We see it all the time when someone trips but gets right back up. It is a way to show no real harm was meant and to move past the awkward moment. The laughter is more about the shared surprise than making fun of the person. It is a weird human habit to use humor when things go a little wrong.

Hormone-free chicken means paying more, no way around it.

Going around your direct boss seems like a real good way to get labeled a problem, even if you're right. I mean, photos can help but that feels like starting a war instead of just fixing the issue. Maybe it's just me but most places I've seen would rather handle it quietly inside the chain of command first. Idk, that move could burn bridges hard if the shift lead and your boss talk.