Laying Hen Keel Bone Research and Solutions

Keel bone fractures affect the majority of laying hens in all production systems, representing one of the most prevalent and least addressed welfare problems in commercial egg production, with multiple potential solutions at different stages of development.

Key Facts

Keel bone fractures affect 50-80% of laying hens across all production systems including free range
Fractures develop progressively through impacts with perches, fittings, and other hens during flapping
Pain from fractures causes behavioral changes including perch avoidance and reduced laying box use
Selective breeding for stronger keel bones and higher bone mineral density is showing promise
Perch design modifications including padding, altered diameters, and placement can reduce fracture rates

Welfare Considerations

Keel bone fractures represent a chronic welfare problem affecting the majority of egg-laying hens regardless of system. The assumption that free-range eggs are welfare-positive compared to caged eggs is complicated by equivalent or higher keel bone fracture rates in less controlled environments where perch impacts are more frequent. Solutions are available at the level of housing design, management, and genetics but adoption has been slow. The welfare industry has been aware of this problem for decades without adequate action, making it a test case for whether industry self-regulation can address significant welfare problems without regulatory intervention.

What You Can Do

Ask egg producers and retailers specifically about their keel bone fracture monitoring and reduction programs
Support regulatory requirements for keel bone assessment data collection and public reporting
Choose eggs from producers who can demonstrate engagement with keel bone welfare research
Advocate for mandatory keel bone scoring at processing plants to generate the data needed for improvement
Support research into genetic selection, housing design, and management solutions for keel bone fractures