Commercial turkeys have been selectively bred to grow rapidly and develop large breast muscles, causing significant welfare problems. Welfare reform efforts are targeting both genetics and management.
Turkey welfare parallels broiler welfare in the sense that genetic selection for maximum breast muscle development has created animals prone to serious health problems. The inability of commercial breeds to mate naturally - requiring universal artificial insemination - illustrates how far commercial genetics have moved from natural function. Turkeys experiencing heart failure, lameness, and skeletal problems during the brief weeks of their lives experience acute and chronic suffering. The holiday market concentration means welfare reform advocacy has a clear target: consumer choices at Thanksgiving and Christmas represent high-stakes decisions with large aggregate welfare impacts.