Disgusting Video of Butterball Turkeys Being Sexually Abused by Workers Sent Shockwaves Ahead of Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, shocking images have emerged showing Butterball workers subjecting turkeys to abuse and even sexual assault. The statement sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning the practices behind one of the largest turkey producers in the United States. Disturbing images come from a source 2006 undercover investigation It was conducted by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) at Butterball’s Ozark, Arkansas facility.

The investigation, which lasted several months, revealed the horrific treatment of animals and shed light on what PETA described as “the horrors going on behind the scenes” in the turkey industry.

Shocking Practices Revealed at Butterball Facility

According to PETA’s findingsWorkers at the facility were responsible for chaining and slaughtering more than 50,000 birds per day. The undercover investigator recorded violent acts of cruelty, including clear cases of sexual abuse.

One disturbing clip shows a worker sticking his finger into a turkey’s cloaca, while another scene shows a worker “bumping” into a restrained bird. PETA reported that other workers violently touched, punched, hit, and even stepped on the turkeys.

Amber Canavan, PETA’s Vegan Campaign Project Manager, spoke to the media about the grim findings. “Nothing humane happens in a slaughterhouse,” he said, describing the graphic details in the investigator’s records. In one incident, a worker crushed the head of a live bird, causing its skull to explode, then laughed and wiped the blood off its leg.

The images also show that turkeys hit metal bars, their legs and backs are broken, and workers throw the animals with such force that their limbs are torn off. The investigator documented scenes of birds with bared spines and pupils exploding, highlighting widespread and uncontrolled abuse within the facility.

“Workers were not clearly trained on animal welfare,” the investigator said, adding that some workers even bragged about their abusive behavior.

WARNING: Extremely disturbing video. Viewer discretion is advised.

Anger on Social Media over the Video

The reappearance of these sensational images a few days ago Thanksgiving It caused a wave of outrage across social media platforms. Many users have vowed to boycott Butterball products. “This breaks my heart,” one TikTok user wrote, while another added: “I bought a Butterball turkey today and will definitely be returning it tomorrow morning.”

In a viral TikTok postA user named “You better not eat Butterball turkey this year,” urged viewers, labeling the company’s practices as “unstable.” Another viewer commented, “This made me physically sick,” while one person said her family refused to eat the Butterball turkey they bought.

The videos show some consumers going so far as to return the turkeys they purchased after learning of the allegations. Inside a clipA woman goes to a store to return a Butterball turkey and says, “I can’t believe what I just saw.” Another user expressed his distress by saying, “I’ll buy one just to bury it and cry.”

Canavan welcomed the public response, noting that it’s what animal advocates hope to see, especially before a holiday where turkey is a staple. He encouraged people to consider vegan alternatives, noting that skipping the turkey could prevent further cruelty.

“It’s never too late to grab that vegan roast,” he insisted, adding that even separating a turkey from the slaughterhouse can make a difference.

Butterball Responds to Allegations

In response to the resurfaced footage, Butterball released a statement distancing the company from the video and the actions depicted. According to the company, the video is nearly two decades old and does not reflect its current practices or animal welfare policies.

A Butterball spokesperson said: “Animal care and welfare is at the heart of who we are as a company and we are committed to the ethical and responsible care of our herds.” The spokesperson added that the company conducts annual third-party audits to ensure compliance with more than 200 science-based standards for turkey care.

Butterball also underlined that one-third of the Thanksgiving turkeys in the US come from its facilities and that it is the first turkey company to receive American Humane certification. Despite these assurances, the company faces increasing criticism as consumers doubt whether the certification guarantees humane treatment.

Patterns of Abuse in the Poultry Industry

Although the Butterball investigation took place in 2006, PETA insists the abuse that emerged was not an isolated incident. Canavan highlighted more recent research conducted by the organization; 2021 investigation into Plainville FarmsWorkers were also caught simulating sexual acts on turkeys.

Past investigations have led to serious criminal charges, including a high-profile case in Pennsylvania that resulted in the prosecution of several workers. In 2011, a Butterball facility in North Carolina was raided following another investigation. Compassion for Animals revealed similar abuses. Workers at this facility were recorded as severely mistreating turkeys, leading to additional accusations.

PETA continues to call for tighter control and the adoption of animal-free food options. According to Canavan, “These studies reveal a systemic problem of abuse in the poultry industry that cannot be solved by certifications alone.”

Consumers Are Reconsidering Thanksgiving Traditions

As the scandal reignites debate about animal cruelty in the poultry industry, many consumers are reevaluating their holiday meal traditions. Due to increased awareness of animal rights issues and the availability of plant-based alternatives, some are choosing to give up turkey altogether.

For others, the graphic nature of the Butterball video permanently changed brand perception. “This Thanksgiving, I’m going to start a new cruelty-free tradition,” one social media user said.