Farm Animals

Poultry Welfare: Turkey Breed Reform

Commercial turkey breeds have been selected for extreme breast muscle development that compromises mobility, reproductive capacity, and welfare.

Key Facts

Commercial turkeys have been bred so heavily that most cannot reproduce naturally, requiring artificial insemination
Leg and cardiovascular problems due to rapid growth are widespread in commercial turkeys
Slower-growing turkey breeds with better welfare profiles are commercially available but rarely used
Turkey welfare reform lags significantly behind chicken welfare reform in corporate commitments

Welfare Considerations

Commercial turkey welfare is in a similar position to broiler welfare a decade ago - with severe genetic welfare problems that industry has not yet committed to addressing at scale. Consumer and corporate engagement is needed to drive the same progress in turkey welfare that the Better Chicken Commitment has catalysed for broilers.

What You Can Do

Support brands and retailers committing to welfare-improved turkey breeds
Advocate for turkey breed reform to be included in Better Chicken Commitment-type corporate policies
Engage with organisations working to advance turkey welfare reform