Research into keel bone fractures in laying hens is generating practical solutions. Understanding the state of knowledge helps advocates identify the most promising welfare improvements.
Keel bone fracture research is translating into practical welfare improvements that cage-free system operators can implement. The key findings — that perch design, breed selection, and early exercise all significantly affect fracture rates — provide actionable guidance for reducing one of the most prevalent welfare problems in modern egg production. Progress is genuine: well-designed aviaries with appropriate perch angles, soft landing surfaces, and breeds with stronger bone structure show substantially lower fracture prevalence. The remaining challenge is adoption across the diverse global cage-free sector, where cost pressures and lack of regulatory requirements slow voluntary welfare investment. Welfare certification that specifically monitors and scores keel fracture prevalence would accelerate improvement.