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Aviagen has recently updated a report of its decade’s long commitment to the selection of turkeys with improved sustainability and welfare standards. This article summarises the key aspects. The full article can be found at www.aviagenturkeys.com
Our breeding operations are replicated across and within regions for security, with multiple lines of pedigree birds carefully evaluated under controlled conditions that closely mirror commercial production environments. This rigorous process allows for a comprehensive assessment of key traits, encompassing reproduction, growth, feed efficiency, yield, and crucially, bird health and welfare.
The selection process translates the evolving needs of the industry and societal expectations into a breeding goal based on measurable individual bird traits. This holistic approach ensures our breeding programs align with the growing demand for sustainable and ethical food production.
Animal breeding presents inherent trade-offs between traits. For example, bodyweight and leg health exhibit an inverse relationship. We address this through a balanced selection approach, considering the interplay between various traits and selecting birds that demonstrate above-average performance across the board. This balancing act ensures that improvements in one trait do not compromise others.
Technological advancements have significantly enhanced the precision and efficiency of our turkey breeding program:
Feed Stations: Innovative systems to accurately measure individual bird feed intake, enabling the identification of birds with superior feed efficiency within a group setting where they can express natural behaviours.
Genomic Selection: Use of DNA information in the genetic evaluations to accelerate the rate of genetic progress.
Advanced Imaging: Development of CT scanning and x-rays systems for assessment of yield and skeletal health.
Animal welfare is a cornerstone of Aviagen Turkeys' breeding philosophy:
Leg Health: Extensive measures, including leg assessments, X-rays, and gait scoring, are employed to identify and select against birds with a predisposition to leg problems. This focus on leg health not only improves bird welfare but also enhances overall flock productivity and reduces mortality rates (Fig. 1).
Fig 1. Leg Defect freedom in the B.U.T. 6. This chart shows the genetic trend based on clinical and subclinical leg health assessments.
Footpad Health: Footpad dermatitis (FPD) is an important welfare indicator. By measuring factors like individual water consumption alongside selecting for birds with lower FPD susceptibility, we are contributing to improved footpad health.
Robustness: Multi-environment selection identifies birds that perform well under a range of conditions. This translates to better adaptability to different farming environments and improved livability (Fig 2).
Fig. 2. Liveability of B.U.T. 6 commercial males from a European operation.
Sustainability is another key driver of our breeding program:
Feed Efficiency (FCR): Continuous improvements in FCR are critical for reducing the environmental impact of turkey production. (see fig 3).
Fig 3. 20kg Performance objectives of the B.U.T. 6 relative to the FCR in 2020 and including a future projection to 2030.
Reduced Resource Use: By optimising feed utilisation, we contribute to a more sustainable food system, reducing the strain on agricultural resources and minimising greenhouse gas emissions associated with food production. (Fig 4).
Fig 4. Impact of genetic improvement on emissions (Global Warming Potential) from turkey production, relative to 2020. FCR is the major contributor to reduction in Global Warming Potential.
Aviagen remains committed to ongoing research and development to further refine our breeding programs and address the evolving needs of the industry and society. This includes exploring new technologies, expanding the range of traits under consideration, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of turkey production.
Our dedication to breeding turkeys that are both productive and exhibit high welfare standards represents a continuous contribution to sustainable animal agriculture. By integrating technological advancements, focusing on animal welfare, and prioritising sustainability we hope to shape the future of turkey production, ensuring a more responsible and sustainable food supply for generations to come.