Commercial turkeys have been selected for extreme breast muscle development that causes locomotor problems, cardiovascular disease and chronic pain, creating welfare problems structurally similar to broiler chickens.
Turkey welfare problems are structurally identical to broiler welfare problems: extreme genetic selection for muscle mass has created animals whose bodies are incompatible with normal function. Locomotor problems mean a significant proportion of commercial turkeys experience chronic pain during their lives. The welfare case for slower-growing, less extreme turkey breeds parallels the Better Chicken Commitment argument. However, turkey welfare has received far less advocacy attention than broiler welfare, and comparable certification schemes are less developed. Consumer awareness of turkey welfare is generally low - most concern focuses on gestation crates and cage-free eggs. Building awareness of turkey welfare as a comparable priority is important for comprehensive farm animal welfare advocacy.