Keel bone fractures affect a majority of laying hens in most housing systems, causing chronic pain and impaired movement. This is one of the most prevalent welfare problems in commercial egg production globally.
Keel bone fractures represent one of the most significant and underappreciated welfare problems in egg production. Despite affecting the majority of hens in most systems, they receive far less public attention than housing system debates. Critically, the systems most associated with welfare improvements - free-range and aviary housing - can have the highest fracture rates due to increased hen activity. Addressing keel fractures requires breed reform for stronger bones, better perch design, and careful management of the flock transition to more complex environments. This welfare problem demands greater research investment and industry action.