German animal welfare groups demand stricter turkey farming regulations

Ten environmental and animal welfare organizations, including the German Animal Welfare Federation and BUND, have issued a joint position paper calling on the German federal government to establish binding legal requirements for turkey farming. The groups argue that current conditions in most German facilities are inadequate, noting that turkeys lack sufficient space, enrichment, and the ability to engage in natural behaviors.

According to the organizations, the lack of specific regulations for turkeys, unlike those for broiler chickens and laying hens, creates a legal loophole. They highlighted issues such as rapid growth leading to leg injuries and routine beak trimming to prevent self-injury among stressed animals. The groups are urging the government to implement mandatory standards within the Animal Welfare Livestock Husbandry Ordinance rather than relying on voluntary guidelines.

This push for reform follows a ruling by the Federal Administrative Court, which deemed certain current husbandry conditions a violation of animal welfare laws. The organizations demand that the federal government take direct responsibility instead of delegating oversight to local veterinary offices and regional authorities.