Modern commercial turkeys face significant welfare challenges rooted in intensive selective breeding for rapid growth and high breast muscle yield.
The welfare crisis in commercial turkey production stems primarily from extreme selective pressure on growth rate and body conformation at the expense of physiological function. Musculoskeletal pain from leg deformities and cardiovascular stress from carrying excessive breast muscle mass are pervasive welfare problems affecting millions of birds. Litter quality, ventilation management, and stocking density profoundly affect respiratory health and foot pad dermatitis. Higher welfare systems emphasizing slower-growing breeds, outdoor access, and enrichment demonstrate that commercially viable turkey production can substantially reduce suffering.