Commercial turkey breeds have been selected for rapid growth and large breast size, causing significant welfare problems that require breed-level reform.
Commercial turkey production has created birds whose extreme body conformation causes inherent welfare compromise. Leg weakness, joint pain, cardiovascular strain, and inability to express natural behaviours are consequences of selective breeding beyond natural physiological limits. These welfare problems cannot be fully resolved through husbandry improvements alone without addressing the breed genetics. Consumer demand for slower-growing breeds and higher welfare standards creates market incentives for breed reform in the sector.