The UK turkey industry produces around 10 million turkeys annually for the Christmas market, with welfare challenges concentrated in intensive systems producing fast-growing breeds.
Commercial turkey breeds selected for rapid growth experience cardiovascular stress and leg weakness similar to fast-growing broiler chickens. Breast blisters from contact with bedding and difficulty walking reduce activity and natural behaviour. Turkey poults are highly susceptible to chilling in early life causing acute suffering. Stunning at slaughter requires specific protocols for the large body size of commercial turkeys. Free-range and traditional breed turkeys demonstrate significantly better welfare through access to ranging behaviour and improved conformation.