Broad Breasted Breeds (White, Bronze)

Process Broad Breasted White or Bronze turkeys between 16 and 22 weeks of age. Hens typically reach 14-20 lbs live weight by 16-18 weeks, while toms reach 25-40 lbs by 18-22 weeks. These commercial breeds convert feed to muscle rapidly during this window, making it the optimal processing range.

Why It Works

Broad Breasted breeds are selectively bred for fast growth and heavy breast muscle. Their growth curve peaks between 16-22 weeks, after which feed conversion worsens significantly. Beyond 22 weeks, these birds face increasing leg problems and cardiovascular stress, making delayed processing both costly and a welfare concern.

Tips

• Hens are typically processed at 16-18 weeks, toms at 18-22 weeks
• Dressed weight runs approximately 70-75% of live weight, so a 30 lb tom yields roughly a 21-23 lb carcass
• Do not grow Broad Breasted birds beyond 24 weeks as leg injuries and sudden death rates increase sharply