The Anatomy of a Genetically Modified Turkey

FOWL PLAY Typically. the purpose of selective breeding is to combine two genetically superior members of the same species in order to pass the desirable traits along to their offspring. But when it comes to commercial turkeys on factory The Anatomy of a Genetically Modified Turkey quick-growing creatures ready for the Thanksgiving dinner table. farms, what is ultimately produced are pathologically obese, weak, but Abnormal Size and Growth The average weight of today's commercially raised turkey at the time of slaughter is 29 pounds-121 percent greater than the average turkey in 1929. On top of that, they grow twice as fast as their predecessors did. If the rate continues, we could see the average turkey weight reach 40 pounds by 2020. Clipped Upper Beak Farmers clip their turkeys' beaks in order to prevent them from hurting or kiling each other in the confined spaces Heart and Lung Disease Because they grow large so rapidiy, the hearts and lungs of genetically-manipulated turkeys can't support the rest of their bodies at the same rate, resulting in congestive heart and lung disease. White Feathers Over the years, the majority of turkeys have been bred to have white feathers, which have finer shafts that are less visible when plucked and prepared. Flightless Wings Due to their immerse weight and swollen joints, commercial turkeys can't fly like their wild predecessors. Artificially Inseminated Not only do commercial turkeys rely on artificial insemination for genetic manipulation, it's considered a better option because mature male turkeys are often too large to achieve traditional fertilization without causing injury to hens. Crippled Feet and Swollen Joints Forced into cramped spaces and engineered to grow quicker. genetically modified turkeys can't bear their own weight. which causes feet and joint problems. The 2010 U.S. Turkey Market 244.2 MILLION: Number of turkeys raised How to Avoid Genetically Modified Meat Although there are no labeling requirements in the US. for genetically modified meat. any food labeled "100% organic," by law, can't contain any genetically engineered ingredients. Keep in mind that food labeled simply as "organic" can still contain up to 30% of such ingredients. 16.4 POUNDS: Per capita consumption of turkeys $4.4 BILLION: Estimated gross income from turkey sales SOURCES ethical USDA // WASHINGTONPOST.COM // WIRED.COM // NYTIMES.COM // ADOPTATURKEY.COM AMERICAN LIVESTOCK BREEDS CONSERVANCY ocean