Organic Turkeys in Germany Show Significant Foot Pad Dermatitis Prevalence

Foot pad dermatitis (FPD), characterized by painful lesions on the foot pads, represents a significant animal welfare and economic challenge in poultry production globally. While organic production systems are generally associated with higher welfare standards and improved living conditions for animals, the specific impact of these systems on the incidence of FPD in fattening turkeys remains a critical area for investigation. There was a notable knowledge gap regarding the precise prevalence and severity of FPD in fattening turkeys reared under organic conditions in Germany, particularly as assessed at the slaughterhouse.

The investigation successfully established the prevalence of foot pad dermatitis among fattening turkeys from organic production systems in Germany, revealing that a substantial proportion of birds were affected. Furthermore, the study meticulously categorized the severity of these lesions, identifying a spectrum from mild discolorations to severe ulcerations and necrosis. > The most critical finding was that despite the inherent welfare advantages of organic farming, foot pad dermatitis persists as a significant animal welfare concern, with a notable percentage of turkeys exhibiting moderate to severe lesions upon slaughter. These findings provide crucial baseline data, indicating that FPD is not exclusively a problem of conventional intensive farming but also requires attention within organic poultry production.