Today, we’re diving into the world of quail farming with John Tuck of Tuck Farms. Here’s what John had to share with Jason Jackson about the challenges, rewards, and opportunities in the growing quail industry.
Poultry Processing Injury-Illness Rate Falls Below General Industry, Manufacturing Sectors for First Time
The poultry industry today has earned a feather in its worker safety cap. For the first time since the U.S. Dept. of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) began tracking such data 30 years ago, the Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR, which includes occupational injuries and illnesses) in poultry slaughter and processing has fallen below all general industry, manufacturing and food manufacturing levels.
The poultry industry posted a TRIR of 2.6 injuries per 100 full-time workers in 2023, which registered below the rates posted by similar agricultural industries (4.7), all food manufacturing (3.6), all manufacturing (2.8) and all general industry (2.7). It also represents an 89% decrease from a 22.7 TRIR posted in 1994, when BLS began reporting the data.
The Poultry Processing sector, specifically, also registered a lower TRIR than the Egg/Hatchery, Rendering and Feed sectors, as well as any other Animal Slaughter and Processing sector. In fact, only about a dozen categories that BLS tracks in the Food Manufacturing sector scored as low or lower than poultry processing.
The Joint Poultry Industry Safety & Health Council, which comprises members of the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPoultry), the National Chicken Council (NCC) and the National Turkey Federation (NTF), shared the news in a combined release. Collectively, the three organizations represent companies that produce 95% of the nation’s poultry products and directly employ more than 350,000 workers. Over the past decade, poultry processors have gone on an automation spree as workforce shortages complicated the ability to recruit and retain plant floor workers. Automation doesn’t eliminate threats to worker safety, however.
“By embracing ergonomic practices and early medical intervention, and by adopting new technology and automation, the industry has made significant strides in worker safety,” stated the Joint Poultry Industry Safety & Health Council in response to the report’s release. “Nonetheless, the industry remains committed to exploring innovative approaches to further protect our workforce.”
USPoultry, NCC and NTF agreed with the council on its future outlook, saying, “Having a lower incident rate than the general industry, manufacturing and food manufacturing categories is a milestone we are proud to have reached. We will continue setting new benchmarks to ensure the safety and well-being of our employees.”
Source: Food Processing – Andy Hanacek
Jarrett Foods Announces Retirement of President Terry Willis
Jarrett Foods, a leading poultry processing company, has announced the retirement of its President, Terry Willis. Willis, who joined the company in the fall of 2023, played a crucial role in guiding Jarrett Foods through a significant plant expansion phase, which included the construction and startup of a new processing facility.
“Terry was committed to this project from the initial concept meetings through the construction and operational launch of the plant,” said CEO Heath Jarrett. “His dedication and leadership have been invaluable to our team and our growth.”
Willis brings to a close a distinguished 45-year career in the food processing industry, having previously held senior executive roles with major poultry processing companies. Under his leadership, Jarrett Foods’ $14 million expansion project officially opened in June, significantly boosting the company’s chicken deboning and poultry processing capacity. The project is expected to create 300 jobs in the Lavonia, GA, area by 2025.
Jarrett Foods expresses its gratitude to Terry Willis for his dedication and contributions to the company’s success and wishes him a fulfilling retirement.
Caring for Chickens During Molting Season: Tips for a Healthy Flock
Molting is a natural process where chickens shed and regrow their feathers, usually occurring annually, typically in fall. During molting, hens often stop laying eggs and may look ragged as they focus their energy on feather regrowth. This period can be stressful for them, so providing extra care and support is essential for keeping your flock healthy and comfortable.
1. Provide Extra Protein
Feathers are mostly made of protein, so a protein-rich diet helps chickens regrow their feathers faster. Consider adding higher-protein feed like a 20-24% protein mix, or supplement with protein sources like mealworms, scrambled eggs, or fish. These treats will give your birds the extra boost they need without upsetting their digestive systems.
2. Minimize Stress
Molting is already taxing for chickens, so try to minimize any additional stress. Keep their environment calm, reduce handling, and avoid introducing new flock members or making other significant changes. Providing a safe, quiet area helps them focus their energy on feather regrowth.
3. Offer Supplemental Vitamins and Minerals
A balanced diet with added vitamins and minerals helps strengthen chickens’ immune systems, making them better equipped to handle the demands of molting. Calcium, for instance, is beneficial as it supports overall health during this stressful time.
4. Ensure Warm and Comfortable Shelter
Feather loss can leave chickens more vulnerable to cold weather, so check that their coop is well-insulated and draft-free. Adding extra bedding, especially if you’re in a colder climate, can help them stay warm until they’ve regrown their feathers.
5. Be Patient with Egg Production
Hens often stop laying eggs during the molt because their bodies redirect resources to feather production. This is normal, and once they complete the molting process, they’ll typically return to laying eggs. Just focus on keeping them healthy, and egg production will resume in time.
Supporting your flock during molting helps ensure that they remain healthy and strong. With the right care, your chickens will come out of molt refreshed and ready for the coming season!
Harrison Kircher Named President and CEO of National Chicken Council
The National Chicken Council’s (NCC) Board of Directors recently announced that Harrison Kircher has been named NCC President and CEO, effective January 1, 2025.
“On behalf of the NCC Board of Directors, I congratulate Harrison on his appointment as the new President and CEO,” said NCC Chairman Bill Griffith, Peco Foods. “Harrison’s dedication, expertise and leadership have been evident throughout his time with the Council. We have complete confidence in his ability to guide us towards a successful future. His passion for our industry and commitment to our members make him the perfect fit for this role. We are excited to see the positive impact Harrison will undoubtedly have on our organization and stand ready to support him as he embarks on this new journey.”
Kircher has been a member of the NCC team for the past 13 years, first joining as an intern in 2011. He has spent time as a Government Affairs Associate, Manager, Director and Vice President on the legislative affairs team. Promoted to Senior Vice President of Government Affairs in 2021, his primary focus has been advancing NCC’s lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill and educating members of Congress and their staffs on a range of policy issues including agriculture, appropriations, immigration, labor, energy and international trade. Prior to joining NCC, Kircher worked in advertising at Ogilvy & Mather in New York and aided in Robert Hurt’s 2010 congressional campaign victory in Virginia. He graduated from the University of Virginia in 2009 and is a native of Pittsford, New York. Kircher resides in Arlington, VA, with his wife, Amelia.
“I am honored to accept this position and the opportunity to continue working for the chicken industry,” Kircher said. “I am especially confident in our future success given the very strong team around me at NCC. I look forward to the challenge and continuing NCC’s tradition of service and effective representation in Washington.”
Source: National Chicken Council
First presumptive positive case of H5 avian influenza detected in B.C.
An individual in British Columbia has tested presumptive positive for avian influenza (also known as bird flu) caused by the H5 influenza virus, the first detection of avian influenza due to the H5 virus in a person in B.C.
This is also the first detection of a presumed human case of H5 avian influenza acquired in Canada. The positive test for H5 was performed at the BC Centre for Disease Control’s Public-Health Laboratory. Samples are being sent to the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg for confirmatory testing.
The individual is a teenager from the Fraser Health region who is receiving care at BC Children’s Hospital. A public-health investigation has been initiated to determine the source of exposure and identify any contacts.
“Our thoughts are with this young person and their family during this difficult time,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer. “This is a rare event, and while it is the first detected case of H5 in a person in B.C. or in Canada, there have been a small number of human cases in the U.S. and elsewhere, which is why we are conducting a thorough investigation to fully understand the source of exposure here in B.C.”
Public health is following up with contacts who may have been exposed in order to assess for symptoms and provide guidance on testing and prevention measures. There have been no further cases identified at this time. The source of exposure is very likely to be an animal or bird, and is being investigated by B.C.’s chief veterinarian and public health teams.
The investigation involves public health teams from Fraser Health, BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC), the BCCDC Public Health Laboratory, BC Children’s Hospital, the Office of the Provincial Health Officer, Office of the Chief Veterinarian, Ministry of Agriculture and Food, and others.
Health, animal and environmental partners across B.C. have also been working together and with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and other national and U.S. partners to respond to the increased detections of H5N1 avian influenza in poultry farms and wild birds in the province since early October.
Prevention measures
To protect yourself against avian influenza, the following prevention measures are recommended:
- Stay up to date on all immunizations, especially the seasonal flu vaccine.
- Do not touch sick or dead animals or their droppings and do not bring sick wild animals into your home.
- Keep your pets away from sick or dead animals and their feces (poo).
- Report dead or sick birds or animals.
- For poultry or livestock, contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Animal Health office: https://inspection.canada.ca/en/about-cfia/contact-cfia-office-telephone#bc-animal
- For pets, contact your veterinarian or call the BC Animal Health Centre at 1 800 661-9903
- For wild birds, contact the BC Wild Bird Mortality Line: 1 866 431-2473
- For wild mammals, contact the BC Wildlife Health Program: 1 250 751-7246
If you have been exposed to sick or dead birds or animals or work on farm where avian influenza has been detected, watch for symptoms of influenza-like illness (see link below for more details). If you get symptoms within 10 days after exposure to sick or dead animals, tell your health-care provider that you have been in contact with sick animals and are concerned about avian influenza. This will help them give you appropriate advice on testing and treatment. Stay home and away from others while you have symptoms.
Source: Government of British Columbia
Ceva officially launches its latest innovation for poultry broiler production: Ceva Genesys
Ceva Animal Health (Ceva), the leading French animal health company and the 5th largest global player, present in 110 countries officially launches its latest innovation: Ceva Genesys, for automatic and accurate broiler male and female separation at hatch to achieve better flock homogeneity.
With an increase in demand for poultry meat and a rising concern about environmental impact, the need to optimize the production process for a sustainable poultry meat supply is becoming more and more critical for poultry producers. As a leading poultry animal health company and specialist in hatchery technology, Ceva is well-positioned to support these goals.
Committed to actively supporting producers, Ceva has always been looking for innovation, especially at the hatchery, enabling an increase in poultry production performance.
“Since 2011, Ceva has worked side-by-side with the poultry industry to modernize hatchery processes. We have successfully equipped more than 150 hatcheries with the next generation of candling technology, Laser Life, or the in-ovo vaccination system, Egginject. Building on our success, we are now installing our latest state-of-the-art technology, Ceva Genesys, for gender sorting for broilers. We are pleased to offer our customers this innovation, which will bring value across their entire production chain,” said Sylvain Comte, Poultry Franchise Director at Ceva Animal Health.
Ceva Genesys allows for automatic broiler male and female sorting at hatch. By ensuring consistent gender sorting accuracy, poultry producers can optimize the rearing process to closely fit the birds’ needs, consequently improving flock performance.
Since Q3 2024, Ceva has engaged in and installed several commercial projects of Genesys across the world.
Ceva Genesys will be officially launched at the Eurotier (Hannover, Germany) and Ovum (Punta del Este, Uruguay) the week of the 12-15th of November.
PRESS CONTACT
CARLOS Gonzalez
carlos.gonzalez@ceva.com
Tél: +34659 39 18 36
Poultry India Expo 2024 Makes A Grand Return With Its Transformative 16th Edition, South Asia’s Ultimate Poultry Showcase
Poultry India Expo 2024 returns with its groundbreaking 16th edition, South Asia’s largest poultry event, showcasing innovation and industry insights in Hyderabad.
The Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA), in collaboration with Poultry India, is thrilled to present the 16th edition of Poultry India Expo 2024, marking a monumental milestone in South Asia’s poultry industry. Scheduled from November 27-29, 2024, at the HITEX Exhibition Complex in Hyderabad, this event is not only the largest of its kind in South Asia but also the most anticipated international poultry exhibition. Complementing the expo is the prestigious Knowledge Day Technical Seminar on November 26, 2024, at the Hotel Novotel, HICC, Hyderabad, promising industry professionals an unparalleled opportunity to learn, network, and innovate.
Event Theme: Unlocking Poultry Potential
Under the compelling theme, “Unlocking Poultry Potential,” the 16th edition of Poultry India Expo 2024 aims to be a transformative event, spotlighting global trends, challenges, and opportunities within the poultry sector. Poultry industry experts, global exhibitors, poultry farmers, and integrators are set to gather and explore cutting-edge innovations in poultry management, nutrition, animal health, feed mills, and production technologies. This year’s event is expected to host over 400 exhibitors from more than 50 countries, with a visitor count projected to exceed 40,000, making it an unmissable hub for professionals seeking growth and knowledge in the poultry industry.
Key Highlights of Poultry India Expo 2024
The expo includes two major highlights: Knowledge Day on November 26 and the main exhibition from November 27-29, 2024. Here’s an overview of what each day promises to deliver.
Knowledge Day 2024: Technical Insights and Industry Innovation
Kicking off the event is Knowledge Day, taking place on November 26 at the Hotel Novotel, HICC, Hyderabad. Known as a premier technical seminar, Knowledge Day is highly anticipated for its insightful discussions led by some of the most respected figures in the global poultry industry. This year, the seminar will host over 1,500 delegates from 25+ countries, participating in more than seven sessions that address critical challenges and opportunities in the poultry sector.
Session Highlights:
The Knowledge Day seminar will feature sessions focusing on modern poultry production techniques, innovations in feed mills, and advancements in animal nutrition and health. Leading experts will share insights into emerging trends and practical applications that address current industry challenges. From strategies to improve production efficiency to innovative solutions for sustainable poultry farming, Knowledge Day aims to provide delegates with actionable knowledge to apply in their businesses.
Networking and Learning Opportunities
Delegates can look forward to valuable networking opportunities, connecting with industry leaders and peers from across the globe. Knowledge Day’s sessions will be particularly beneficial for poultry farmers, researchers, and professionals aiming to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. The interactive nature of the sessions allows for open discussions, giving attendees the chance to engage with experts directly and deepen their understanding of technical aspects crucial to poultry production.
Poultry India Expo 2024: Largest Poultry Exhibition in South Asia
Following Knowledge Day, the main event, Poultry India Expo 2024, will run from November 27 to 29 at the HITEX Exhibition Complex in Hyderabad. Covering an expansive 27,500 square meters across six exhibition halls, the expo is set to host over 40,000 visitors and 400+ exhibitors from around the world. As the largest poultry exhibition in South Asia, Poultry India Expo 2024 is a platform where global and domestic exhibitors will showcase their latest products, technologies, and innovations in poultry management, health, and nutrition.
Exhibition Highlights:
- Innovations in Poultry Management and Production
This year’s expo will feature a wide range of exhibitors presenting new technologies and practices in poultry management. Attendees will witness the latest advancements in automated poultry equipment, including feed dispensers, climate control systems, and biosecurity solutions that are set to redefine poultry farming efficiency. - Cutting-Edge Animal Health and Nutrition
Leading companies in animal health will introduce innovative products designed to enhance poultry welfare and productivity. Nutrition and feed experts will be on hand to discuss nutritional supplements, feed additives, and formulations tailored to meet the evolving needs of the poultry industry, ensuring sustainable and efficient production. - Sustainable Poultry Solutions
With sustainability at the forefront of global discussions, Poultry India Expo 2024 will shine a spotlight on eco-friendly practices and solutions. The event will include exhibitors focused on waste management, energy-efficient equipment, and sustainable feed options that align with the industry’s environmental goals. - Advanced Feed Mills and Processing Technologies
Another significant area of focus will be advancements in feed mills and processing technologies. This includes high-efficiency feed production machinery, designed to reduce waste and improve productivity while maintaining high-quality feed standards. - Business-to-Business (B2B) Networking Opportunities
In addition to exhibitions and seminars, Poultry India Expo 2024 offers robust networking opportunities, allowing attendees to form partnerships, discuss investment opportunities, and explore business expansions with global and local players in the industry.
Why Attend Poultry India Expo 2024?
As South Asia’s largest poultry exhibition, this event is tailored to professionals in every segment of the poultry industry. From farmers and integrators to veterinarians, nutritionists, and investors, Poultry India Expo 2024 provides a one-stop platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and exploration of innovative solutions.
Comprehensive Visitor Experience at HITEX Exhibition Complex, Hyderabad
Located at HITEX Exhibition Complex, one of India’s most modern exhibition centers, Poultry India Expo 2024 provides a world-class venue for the event. Spread over six spacious halls, HITEX offers convenient facilities for both exhibitors and visitors, including dining areas, networking lounges, and ample parking.
Location Benefits
Hyderabad, known for its rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure, is an ideal destination for such an event. The city is well-connected, with the HITEX Exhibition Complex located conveniently for both domestic and international visitors. The venue’s accessibility and Hyderabad’s robust hotel accommodations ensure that attendees will have a comfortable and enriching experience during the expo.
Unlocking New Opportunities: A Must-Attend for Poultry Industry Professionals
Poultry India Expo 2024 isn’t just an exhibition; it’s a gateway to new knowledge, products, and professional connections. By facilitating discussions around modern techniques, sustainable practices, and innovative solutions, the expo aims to empower poultry professionals to make informed decisions and adapt to evolving industry demands.
Global Participation and Industry Representation
The event’s international appeal is evident in the diverse representation of exhibitors and visitors from over 50 countries. With global brands, cutting-edge startups, and industry leaders participating, Poultry India Expo 2024 provides an ideal forum for cross-border collaborations, learning, and growth.
Exciting New Launches and Product Demonstrations
Many exhibitors will use the expo as a launchpad for their latest innovations, with live demonstrations allowing visitors to see these technologies in action. From automated farm management systems to innovative feed solutions, attendees will gain firsthand insights into products that are set to transform poultry production.
Message from IPEMA President:
Mr. Uday Singh Bayas, President of IPEMA/ Poultry India, emphasized the growing importance of the poultry industry in India:
On behalf of over a million poultry farmers across India, IPEMA appeals for urgent governmental support to sustain and strengthen the poultry sector, a cornerstone of India’s food security, rural employment, and nutritional welfare.
The poultry industry, contributing an annual Rs. 1.35 lakh crores and providing essential protein to millions, faces severe pressures due to escalating input costs, especially for feed ingredients like maize and soya, compounded by GST burdens on soya meal and poultry equipment. Immediate policy interventions are needed to stabilize prices, ensure affordable feed, and enable fair access to credit, particularly by expanding priority sector lending thresholds. We advocate for exemptions from GST on soya meal and processing machinery to ease financial strain, along with increased Rabi maize cultivation and controlled corn imports for ethanol production to stabilize feed costs.
To enhance resilience, we also urge fast-tracked vaccine import protocols to combat animal diseases, alongside nationwide support for egg inclusion in school meal programs to address child malnutrition. The industry’s competitiveness on a global stage requires dedicated “Focus Sector” status to support exports to high-demand markets, which would elevate India’s role as a leading exporter of poultry products.
We urge a balanced approach that considers India’s unique needs and the contributions of its poultry sector, while looking forward to opportunities that will allow us to support India’s food security goals, enhance farmer welfare, and foster sustainable practices.
“We are delighted to invite the global poultry community to the 16th edition of Poultry India Expo 2024. This year’s event will spotlight over 400 exhibitors from across 50+ countries, representing various sectors from across various sectors, including breeding, pharmaceuticals, and animal health. The expo will provide an unparalleled opportunity for networking, collaboration, and innovation. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Hyderabad as we work together to shape the future of the poultry industry.”
Mark Your Calendar for Poultry India Expo 2024
The 16th Poultry India Expo 2024 and Knowledge Day Technical Seminar offer a unique opportunity for poultry professionals to immerse themselves in a transformative learning and networking experience. Whether you’re looking to discover the latest technologies, gain insights into sustainable practices, or connect with industry leaders, Poultry India Expo 2024 is the event to attend.
With a focus on “Unlocking Poultry Potential,” this expo aims to lead the way in shaping the future of the poultry industry. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of South Asia’s largest and most prestigious poultry event. Join us at HITEX Exhibition Complex, Hyderabad, from November 27-29, 2024, and elevate your poultry business to new heights.
Summary of Key Details:
- Event: Poultry India Expo 2024
- Location: HITEX Exhibition Complex, Hyderabad
- Dates: November 27-29, 2024 (Expo); November 26, 2024 (Knowledge Day)
- Theme: Unlocking Poultry Potential
- Attendees Expected: 40,000+
- Exhibitors: 400+ from 50+ countries
Takeaway: Poultry India Expo 2024 is your gateway to innovation, industry insights, and valuable connections in the poultry sector. Save the date and unlock your potential
Six U of G Researchers Receive Funding to Study Animal Health and Food Safety
Six University of Guelph researchers have received over $3 million from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) through the Canadian Poultry Research Council (CPRC) to explore novel approaches to improving poultry health and food safety.
These contributions will fund eight separate projects focused on different aspects of poultry health and food safety, such as investigating the use of new feed ingredients and food safety measures, determining effects of climate change on gut health and virus transmission and exploring alternative disease therapies and waste management solutions.
“Each of these projects exemplifies the University of Guelph’s dedication to research excellence and underscores the commitment of our researchers to develop sustainable agricultural solutions for Canada’s poultry sector. I am honoured to have two of my own projects funded among such a distinguished group,” says Dr. Shayan Sharif, acting vice-president, research & innovation. “We are grateful to our valued partners for their generous support of these vitally important initiatives. These projects will improve poultry and human health and enhance consumer confidence in Canadian agricultural products.”
This funding is part of more than $5.1 million provided to the CPRC through the AgriScience Program – Clusters Component, an initiative under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP): a five-year, federal-provincial-territorial initiative to strengthen competitiveness, innovation and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector.
“Investments in research are vitally important to the future of our agricultural sector,” says Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food in Canada. “By making sure our hardworking poultry farmers are using best practices and adopting innovative solutions, we’re not only strengthening our economy, we’re building a resilient industry that meets the needs of consumers, while protecting our environment for generations to come.”
These projects will leverage funding from across industry, as well as provincial and federal governments, including the Canada First Research Excellence Fund and the Government of Ontario through the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, to support a thriving and competitive agri-food sector.
Dr. Shayan Sharif
Dr. Shayan Sharif, professor in the Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), will receive $914,970 to study avian influenza, an emerging disease of poultry with devastating impacts on the industry. Results of this research will help develop strategies to reduce the spread of disease in the face of a changing climate. Project collaborators include Drs. Amir Aliabadi and Rozita Dara, professors at U of G, and Dr. Samira Mubareka, scientist at Sunnybrook Research Institute.
Sharif will also receive $115,500 for a separate project to explore whether certain bacteria may help control chicken diseases by blocking cell-to-cell communication that fuels intestinal disease development. Sharif will work in collaboration with Dr. Joshua Gong, research scientist at AAFC.
Dr. Alexandra Harlander
Dr. Alexandra Harlander, professor in the Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) and Campbell Centre for the Study of Animal Welfare, will study the activity and physical development of chicken embryos and young birds. The project will explore why some chicken embryos are more active (kicking legs and moving wings) in their eggs than others, and whether higher amounts of embryonic exercise lead to better physical development post-hatching.
Harlander’s work will also look at whether physical training and/or social learning (observing and interacting with experienced older birds) of young chicks may further enhance physical development and help them learn to navigate their living environment in non-cage settings.
This work will be performed in collaboration with Dr. Bettina Willie, professor at McGill University, Dr. Bret Tobalske, professor at the University of Montana and Dr. Don Powers, professor emeritus at George Fox University. The findings of this research will guide management strategies aimed at enhancing the welfare of pullets (young hens that have not started laying eggs yet) and laying hens in alternative housing systems.
Dr. Nicole Ricker
Dr. Nicole Ricker, assistant professor in the Department of Pathobiology, OVC, will receive $497,950 to explore the use of bacteriophages (viruses that can only infect bacterial cells), administered alone or with gut-modifying feeds, as potential alternatives to antibiotics for battling Salmonella infections in poultry.
Ricker will work in collaboration with Dr. Hany Anany, research scientist at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
Dr. Elijah Kiarie
Dr. Elijah Kiarie, professor in the Department of Animal Biosciences, OAC, will receive $269,264 to evaluate fruit pomaces (waste by-products from fruit processing that include skin, pulp, seeds, stems) as potential feed ingredients to enhance bird health, performance and food safety. Kiarie will work in collaboration with Dr. Moussa S. Diarra and Dr. Kelly Ross, research scientists at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
Kiarie will also receive $197,432 for another project to measure the amounts of nitrogen-containing gases produced by chickens in broiler houses and develop strategies to reduce these outputs, as well as nutrient losses, by designing feed formulas to optimize protein utilization.
Dr. Animesh Dutta
Dr. Animesh Dutta, professor in the School of Engineering, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, founding director of the Bio-Renewable Innovation Lab and University of Guelph Research Leadership Chair, will receive $180,800 to develop a thermochemical process for generating biochar from poultry litter. Biochar, a carbon-rich, petroleum-free material produced by pyrolysis (breaking down materials by heating them in the absence of oxygen) of organic waste, holds significant promise as a sustainable soil additive.
Dutta will work in collaboration with Dr. Moussa Diarra, AAFC, and researchers at McGill University to study how climate change impacts the gut health of poultry and explore innovative uses for valuable compounds found in litter. Findings of this research will help further sustainability and enhance agricultural practices using biochar and other waste-derived compounds.
Dr. Keith Warriner
Dr. Keith Warriner, professor in the Department of Food Science, OAC, will receive $121,550 to explore the use of antimicrobial gas-phase hydroxyl radicals to safely disinfect eggs in hatcheries.
Hydroxyl radicals are powerful oxidant species that, when applied to surfaces, may act as disinfectants. In this context, their application may lower the presence of disease-causing agents (Salmonella and others) that can negatively impact human and bird health and subsequently reduce their transmission.
The project will also assess how well the hydroxyl radical process works to decontaminate crates, trays and other surfaces where the spread of germs can occur.
Source: The University of Guelph
Poultry News
Chlorine Dioxide: An Effective Solution Against Avian Influenza
As the world grapples with yet another wave of avian influenza outbreaks, innovative solutions to halt the virus’s spread are in high demand. One...
How to Tell a Good Egg from a Bad Egg
Homegrown eggs are so tasty they are unlikely to sit around long enough to spoil. However, eggs do occasionally go off. Every chicken keeper should know how to tell a good egg from a bad egg.
Why an Egg Goes Bad
A bad egg is generally one that has been contaminated, rendering it inedible or even unsafe. Eggs have built-in natural protection in the form of a thick shell covered with bloom. But neither of these features is entirely impermeable.
Maybe you found the egg on the coop floor or other dirty environment. Always discard a dirty egg, since you can’t tell if bacteria may have already penetrated the shell. And take measures to avoid future dirty eggs, such as encouraging hens to lay in nests and not on the floor, and changing nesting material often enough to keep it clean.
Or maybe the shell has a hairline crack through which bacteria entered. Or the egg could have been partially incubated, as may happen if you discover a hen’s hidden nest. Candling can tell you if an egg has shell cracks or has been partially incubated.
When an Egg Spoils
The easiest way to tell an egg is bad is by the way it smells. A fresh egg, when cracked open, has no odor. A bad egg may have a sour or sulfurous odor. Remember rotten-egg-smelling stink bombs from high school chemistry class? If an egg smells off in any way, toss it.
Not only does such an egg smell bad, it also looks bad. An egg white that’s green, pink, or iridescent likely contains harmful bacteria, rendering it unsafe to eat. Likewise, discard an egg with a discolored or mottled yolk.
Normal Egg White Variations
In a fresh egg, the white is firm, not runny, and yolk does not easily break. As an egg ages, it spreads out more when cracked into a pan and the yolk may break. That doesn’t mean the egg is bad. It’s just a sign that the egg is aging, but it’s still good.
Egg white is normally either cloudy or clear. Cloudiness comes from carbon dioxide, and is a sign that the egg is ultra fresh. As the egg ages, the carbon dioxide releases and the white clears. The egg is no longer at its freshest, but is still good to eat.
Egg white contains two small white string-like things, called chalazae, that are actually a type of egg white. During an egg’s formation inside the hen, the chalazae anchor the yolk to the cell membrane to center it within the white. When you break an egg out of its shell, the chalazae snap away from the shell membrane and recoil against the yolk. This, too, is perfectly normal.
Normal Egg Yolk Variations
Small red spots on the yolk are blood spots that can occur when a blood vessel bursts as a hen’s body releases a yolk to start the development of a new egg. These spots are extremely common. The reason you don’t find them in eggs purchased in a carton is that they have been candled to remove any with this imperfection. Blood spots in no way affect an egg’s safety or edibility.
A normal yolk can vary in color from pale yellow to reddish orange. This color variation reflects what the hen has been eating in terms of xanthophyll and carotene plant pigments. Zanthophylls, such as from alfalfa, result in a yellow yolk, while carotenes, as in corn, produce a darker yolk. Free range hens typically lay eggs with darker yolks.
Bottom line: When an egg goes bad, you’ll know it by the way it looks and, especially, smells. Meanwhile, just keep enjoying those delicious homegrown eggs from your backyard hens.
And that’s today’s news from the Cackle Coop
Source: The Cackle Coop