Commercial turkeys have been bred for such rapid growth that welfare problems including joint disease, cardiovascular issues and difficulty mating are inherent to the breed.
Modern commercial turkey breeds are welfare-compromised by their own genetics. Rapid muscle growth causes chronic leg pain and cardiovascular disease. Inability to mate naturally means all commercial turkeys are produced through artificial insemination. The contrast with heritage breeds kept in free-range or organic conditions illustrates how breed selection is fundamental to turkey welfare. These issues are most acute around holiday season.