Turkeys farmed for meat face significant welfare challenges from selective breeding for large breast muscles that impair movement, reproduction, and thermoregulation.
The extreme muscle development of commercial turkey breeds compromises their ability to walk, rest, forage, and maintain thermal comfort. Welfare problems including leg disorders, cardiovascular disease, and heat stress are direct consequences of breed selection. Slower-growing breeds maintain better physical function and welfare. Consumer demand for breast meat drives the genetics that cause these problems.