Purpose
Commercial meat production
Turkeys breed ยท United States; developed from selected broad-breasted and white turkey lines for commercial meat production.
Broad Breasted White Turkey
The Broad Breasted White is the dominant U.S. commercial meat turkey, selected for rapid growth, feed efficiency, and a very large breast. It is best suited to a planned meat-production timeline, not to a self-reproducing heritage flock.
Mature size/weight
Very large; market toms can exceed 30 lb, with size varying by strain, sex, and processing age
Origin
United States
Temperament
Usually manageable with calm handling, though individual behavior varies
Broad Breasted White Turkey characteristics
| Purpose | Commercial meat production |
|---|---|
| Mature size/weight | Very large; market toms can exceed 30 lb, with size varying by strain, sex, and processing age |
| Origin | United States |
| Temperament | Usually manageable with calm handling, though individual behavior varies |
| Color/appearance | White plumage, pale skin, and an exceptionally broad breast |
| Growth type | Fast-growing commercial production turkey |
| Breeding | Natural mating is generally impractical; commercial reproduction commonly uses artificial insemination |
What Broad Breasted White turkeys are raised for
Broad Breasted Whites are raised for efficient production of a large, breast-heavy carcass. Their white feathers are favored because remaining pinfeathers are less conspicuous after processing.
They are not heritage turkeys and are not a good fit for owners whose main goal is maintaining naturally breeding stock. Plan housing, feed, processing, and marketing before bringing poults home.
Why the Broad Breasted White stands out
This is the standard commercial turkey type for high-yield meat production in the United States. Its rapid growth and oversized breast distinguish it from heritage varieties such as Bourbon Red.
Raising Broad Breasted White turkeys
Manage Broad Breasted Whites on a defined production schedule with dry litter, clean water, adequate space, and secure protection from weather and predators. Avoid selecting them as breeding stock for natural mating, monitor birds closely for mobility or welfare concerns, and contact a licensed veterinarian or Extension professional for flock-management concerns.
Broad Breasted White Turkey frequently asked questions
Why are Broad Breasted White turkeys common in commercial production?
They were selected for rapid growth, feed efficiency, white plumage, and a high proportion of breast meat.
Can Broad Breasted Whites breed naturally?
Natural mating is generally impractical because of their body conformation; commercial breeding commonly relies on artificial insemination.
Are Broad Breasted Whites heritage turkeys?
No. They are commercial production turkeys, whereas heritage varieties must be capable of natural mating and have a slower growth rate.
Breed characteristics are general guidance and vary by bloodline, region, and management. For animal health, vaccination, and disease questions, consult a licensed veterinarian or your local Cooperative Extension office. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.