How selective breeding for rapid growth and high breast meat yield has created serious welfare challenges for commercial turkeys.
The welfare cost of commercial turkey genetics is substantial and largely inherent to the bird's physiology rather than management alone. Turkeys bred for maximum breast yield carry a chronic burden of musculoskeletal stress, cardiovascular strain, and behavioral restriction that cannot be fully remedied by improved housing. Transitioning to slower-growing breeds or heritage varieties represents the most impactful single intervention available to producers.