Laying Hen Keel Bone Fractures: A Major Welfare Crisis in Egg Production

Keel bone fractures affect the majority of laying hens in modern egg production systems, causing significant chronic pain and representing a major unresolved welfare challenge.

Key Facts

Studies find 50-80% of laying hens have keel bone damage during their productive life
Keel bone fractures cause chronic pain evidenced by behavioral and physiological changes
Fractures occur most frequently when hens land on hard surfaces after flight
Colony cage systems have higher fracture rates than barn systems in some studies
Genetics, perch design, and management affect fracture incidence

Welfare Considerations

Keel bone fractures are one of the most prevalent and serious welfare problems in commercial egg production. Hens with fractured keels show reduced movement, abnormal postures, and pain responses that indicate significant chronic suffering. Despite this, the problem receives relatively little consumer attention compared to cage versus cage-free debates. Addressing keel fractures requires a combination of genetic selection for bone strength, better perch and landing zone design, and appropriate calcium nutrition.

What You Can Do

Choose eggs from farms that actively monitor and report keel bone fracture rates
Support laying hen welfare research that prioritizes keel bone health
Advocate for keel bone health metrics to be included in welfare certifications
Reduce egg consumption or shift to plant-based alternatives