Laying Hen Bone Health and Keel Fracture Prevention

Keel bone fractures affect the majority of laying hens in commercial production globally, causing chronic pain and representing one of the most pressing welfare issues in egg farming.

Key Facts

Studies show 50-80% of laying hens in cage-free and free-range systems have keel bone fractures
The keel bone (sternum) is a thin, highly mineralised structure essential for flight and movement
Fractures occur when hens jump or fall from perches and collide with structures
Mineral depletion from constant egg production weakens bone throughout the skeleton
Fractured keel bones heal poorly - the hen must continue moving on a painful injury
Fractures can be detected by palpation and are confirmed at post-mortem examination
Perch design, height, and angling significantly affect fracture rates

Welfare Considerations

Keel fractures cause measurable, chronic pain - affected hens show altered gait, reduced activity and changed posture. Unlike many farming welfare issues, keel fractures are not solved by moving to cage-free systems - rates are often higher in aviaries than enriched cages. Solutions require a combination of perch redesign, ramp provision, genetic selection for better bone quality, and adjusted mineral supplementation. The issue represents a welfare cost often invisible to consumers who associate cage-free with high welfare.

What You Can Do

Support egg producers who invest in perch design improvements and fracture monitoring
Ask egg brands what specific welfare metrics they track, including keel fracture rates
Support research funding for genetic selection for bone robustness in laying hens
Advocate for keel fracture rate to be included in farm assurance scheme audit criteria
Reduce egg consumption or choose from suppliers with documented welfare investment