Commercial turkeys are selectively bred for rapid growth, causing health problems including leg weakness and cardiovascular disease that cause significant welfare harm.
Commercial turkey breeding has prioritised breast muscle growth at the cost of cardiovascular and skeletal health. Heavy breast muscles shift the bird's centre of gravity, causing gait abnormalities and joint pain. Heart failure from aortic rupture is the leading cause of mortality in turkey flocks. Leg weakness prevents normal ranging behaviour. Despite their intelligence and curiosity, commercial turkeys in barren sheds cannot express natural behaviours. Slower-growing breeds with outdoor access significantly improve welfare outcomes.