Commercial turkey production uses fast-growing breeds that have significant welfare problems including cardiovascular disease, leg disorders, and inability to mate naturally.
Turkey welfare is compromised at its foundation by the extreme selective breeding for growth rate and breast yield that underlies commercial production. Unlike chickens, where breed reform movements have made some progress, turkey welfare reform remains at an earlier stage. Transitioning to slower-growing breeds, improving housing complexity, and managing the Christmas demand peak more carefully are all achievable welfare improvements.