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Local Partnership Delivers 13,000 Pounds of Chicken to Fight Hunger in Northern Indiana

Martin’s Super Markets and Miller Poultry joined forces to donate 13,000 pounds of chicken to the Food Bank of Northern Indiana on December 10. The contribution comes at a critical time, as many families continue to face challenges brought on by the pandemic and rising food insecurity.

The donation reflects the strong collaboration between local businesses and their commitment to supporting the community. Chicken, a staple protein in many households, provides essential nutrition, particularly during the holiday season when demand for food assistance typically increases.

The Food Bank of Northern Indiana serves a six-county area, where the need for support has grown significantly, with partner agencies reporting a 12% increase in households seeking help. Contributions like this are vital in addressing the rising demand and ensuring that families have access to nutritious meals.

This effort highlights the importance of community partnerships in alleviating hunger and bringing hope to those in need during the holiday season and beyond.

FSIS has interest in Salmonella Poultry Vaccine

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s Center for Veterinary Biologics (CVB) has published Notice No. 24-15, Salmonella Vaccines and USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service’s Framework to Reduce Salmonella Illnesses Attributable to Poultry to inform veterinary biologics manufacturers of FSIS’ interest in Salmonella vaccines for poultry. As part of the Salmonella Framework for Raw Poultry Products, FSIS has proposed serotypes of public health significance for raw chicken carcasses, chicken parts, and comminuted chicken (Enteritidis, Typhimurium, and I,4,[5],12:I:-); and for raw comminuted turkey (Hadar, Typhimurium, and Muenchen). FSIS also noted that Salmonella Infantis remains a serotype of considerable concern in terms of potential severity of illness and antimicrobial resistance and has requested comment on the possible inclusion of Infantis as a serotype of public health significance. FSIS is interested in learning about and engaging in discussions with veterinary biologics manufacturers on vaccination technologies, especially modified-live vaccines targeting FSIS’ proposed serotypes of public health concern or their associated serogroups.

CVB regulates the licensing of veterinary biologics, including products for animal pathogens, such as Salmonella, that are also considered food safety risks. CVB has published previous notices describing the jurisdictional issues where food safety is an additional consideration beyond an animal health claim, including Notice 05-07, Biologics for Reduction of Colonization and/or Shedding in Animals and Notice 12-09, Licensing of Vaccines as Preharvest Food Safety Interventions.

As a reminder, FSIS extended the comment period for the Salmonella Framework for Raw Poultry Products proposed rule and determination until January 17, 2025. Written comments may be submitted online via the federal eRulemaking portal, available at www.regulations.gov; by mail sent to Docket Clerk, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Mailstop 3758, Washington, DC 20250-3700, or by hand or courier delivery to 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Jamie L. Whitten Building, Room 350-E, Washington, DC 20250-3700. All items submitted must include the agency name and docket number FSIS-2023-0028.

Source: Marler Blog

Louisiana Reports First Suspected Human Case of H5N1 Bird Flu

The Louisiana Department of Health announced on Friday that it has identified a potential human case of H5N1 avian influenza in the state, marking the first such occurrence in Louisiana. According to a report by Reuters, the individual is a resident of southwestern Louisiana and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital.

Health officials are working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to conduct a thorough epidemiological investigation. Initial findings suggest that the individual had direct exposure to sick or deceased birds believed to be infected with H5N1.

H5N1 is a highly contagious strain of avian influenza that primarily affects birds, often causing severe respiratory illness. Since 2022, the United States has been dealing with ongoing outbreaks of H5N1 among wild bird populations and poultry.

As of December 13, a total of 60 human cases of H5N1 have been confirmed across the country. Most of these infections have been linked to close contact with infected birds or livestock. Importantly, there has been no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus in any of the reported cases.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to assess potential risks and ensure public safety.

Turning Waste into Power: SDCL Invests in US Bioenergy Projects

Sustainable Development Capital (SDCL) has expanded its renewable energy portfolio by acquiring a stake in two waste-to-energy projects in North Carolina, USA. These projects convert poultry waste into bioenergy, representing a significant step in the transition to sustainable energy solutions.

The investment, made through SDCL’s Green Energy Solutions Fund (GESF), amounts to $28 million (€33.9 million). The projects were developed by East Energy Renewables and aim to provide both environmental and economic benefits.

Jonathan Maxwell, CEO and founder of SDCL, highlighted the importance of bioenergy in the global renewable energy mix. “Bioenergy is one of the largest contributors to renewable energy worldwide. Investments like this play a critical role in advancing the global energy transition,” Maxwell stated. He emphasized that the acquisition demonstrates SDCL’s commitment to supporting innovative bioenergy initiatives that deliver strong returns and positive environmental impacts.

David Maxwell, managing director at SDCL and co-fund manager of GESF, pointed out the multi-faceted benefits of the investment. “This project offers a robust, risk-adjusted return for our investors while significantly reducing carbon emissions. It also supports essential energy services for local utilities and wastewater treatment facilities in North Carolina,” he explained. He added that the investment aligns perfectly with GESF’s goals and underscores the potential for industrial energy efficiency projects in the U.S.

This move reflects SDCL’s ongoing mission to identify and back high-impact renewable energy initiatives, further establishing the company as a leader in the bioenergy sector.

International Poultry Scientific Forum to Present the Latest Research Findings Impacting the Poultry Industry at 2025 IPPE

The poultry industry consistently invests in research to enhance its understanding and expertise in avian care, while exploring methods and techniques to boost its overall success. These advancements and related subjects will be highlighted at the International Poultry Scientific Forum (IPSF), held in conjunction with the 2025 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta.

Sponsored by the Southern Poultry Science Society, the Southern Conference on Avian Diseases and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY), IPSF will present information on industry topics such as environmental management, nutrition, physiology, pathology, processing and products and avian diseases.

The one-and-a-half-day forum will begin Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, and continue through Tuesday, Jan. 28. The pre-registration fee is $95 through Jan. 10, 2025. Beginning Jan. 11, the cost is $155. Students may register complimentary by uploading a copy of their valid student ID. For more information about the IPSF and to register, click here.

The 2025 IPPE will be held Jan. 28 – 30 and is a collaboration of three trade shows – the International Feed Expo, International Poultry Expo and International Meat Expo – representing the entire chain of protein production and processing. The event is sponsored by USPOULTRY, the American Feed Industry Association and the Meat Institute.

For more information about IPPE, including registration details, lodging and other education offerings, visit ippexpo.org.

Source: US Poultry & Egg Association

Possible H5N1 cases detected in Arizona poultry workers

In a recent development, the Arizona Department of Health Services has reported the first probable human cases of H5N1 avian influenza in the state. Two workers from a poultry facility in Pinal County have tested positive for the virus after being exposed to infected birds. This marks a significant event as the state grapples with the implications of avian influenza on both public health and the poultry industry.

The H5N1 virus, commonly known as bird flu, primarily affects birds but can occasionally infect humans who have close contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. The two individuals in Arizona reported mild symptoms and have since recovered after receiving appropriate medical treatment. This incident underscores the importance of stringent biosecurity measures and prompt medical intervention to prevent the spread of the virus.

Avian influenza has been a growing concern globally, with sporadic human cases reported in various countries. The virus can cause severe respiratory illness in humans, and in some cases, it can be fatal. However, human-to-human transmission of H5N1 remains rare, and the risk to the general public is considered low. The Arizona Department of Health Services, in collaboration with federal and local partners, is taking comprehensive measures to monitor and control the spread of the virus.

These measures include distributing protective gear to farm workers, ensuring access to testing and treatment for those exposed, and conducting public education campaigns to raise awareness about the virus. The state is also working closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to manage the outbreak and mitigate its impact on the poultry industry.

The detection of H5N1 in Arizona highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness in managing zoonotic diseases. It also emphasizes the critical role of early detection and rapid response in preventing widespread outbreaks. The Arizona Department of Health Services is committed to safeguarding public health and is actively working to contain the virus and prevent further cases.

In conclusion, the recent detection of probable H5N1 cases in Arizona poultry workers serves as a reminder of the potential risks posed by avian influenza. While the immediate threat to the general public remains low, continued efforts to monitor, educate, and protect those at risk are essential. The collaboration between health authorities and the agricultural sector is crucial in managing this public health challenge and ensuring the safety and well-being of all Arizonans.

Source: avinews.com

News Mississippi Poultry Assoc. Donates to Mississippi Food Network, Salvation Army: ‘No Family Goes Hungry’

Governor Tate Reeves has announced that the Mississippi Poultry Association‘s donation of 59,500 pounds of chicken meat and 129,000 eggs will be donated to both the Mississippi Food Network and Salvation Army.

“I’m grateful to the Mississippi Poultry Association for always stepping up to help ensure no Mississippi family goes hungry during the holiday season,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “The Mississippi Food Network and the Salvation Army do a tremendous job serving Mississippians, and I thank them for accepting this donation to help end hunger in our state.”

“This has been a difficult year for many across the country, and the 32,000 employees of the state’s poultry industry want to help their fellow Mississippians this Christmas season,” said MPA Chairman of the Board, Mack Walker of Tyson Foods. “We appreciate Gov. Reeves coordinating this effort.”

Since the program began, MPA members have donated 862,352 pounds of chicken and 1,882,600 eggs, which totals 5,332,008 servings of protein.

In addition to the 32,000 people that work in the industry and the 1,700 farm families that raise these chickens and eggs, another 66,400 jobs are generated because of the poultry industry. Poultry is Mississippi’s largest agricultural industry with a total economic impact of $27.8 billion.

These products raised on Mississippi farms come from Amick Farms, Cal Maine Foods, Koch Foods, Mar-Jac Poultry MS, Peco Foods, Tyson Foods and Wayne-Sanderson Farms. Each company individually donates products throughout the year to various charities, but they come together through the Mississippi Poultry Association once a year to make this donation.

Source:Vicksburg News

Pre-Chill and Post-Chill Turkey Sampling as a Predictor of Salmonella enterica Contamination in Ground Turkey

USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation announce the completion of a funded research project by researchers at Kansas State University that aimed to evaluate the connection between indicator microorganisms and Salmonella at re-hang and post-chill stages. The research was made possible in part by an endowing Foundation gift from Cargill. The research is part of the Association’s comprehensive research program encompassing all phases of poultry and egg production and processing. A summary of the completed project is below.

Project 739: Use of Qualitative and Quantitative Microbial Data to Determine if Turkey Pre-Chill and Post-Chill Sampling Are Predictive of Salmonella enterica Contamination in Ground Turkey

(Dr. Jessie Vipham and colleagues, Department of Animal Science and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kan.)

Currently, USDA-FSIS mandates that large turkey processors sample one turkey out of every 3,000 at both re-hang (pre-chill) and post-chill processing steps to demonstrate process control. Understanding the relationship between indicator microorganism levels at these stages and the presence of Salmonella in ground turkey can improve process control strategies and testing programs. Dr. Jessie Vipham and colleagues at Kansas State University aimed to evaluate the connection between indicator microorganisms and Salmonella at re-hang and post-chill stages. The study assessed whether this method could reliably predict Salmonella contamination at final grind, enhancing the turkey industry’s ability to meet regulatory requirements. Findings provided insights into the prevalence and control of Salmonella contamination on turkey carcasses between re-hang, post-chill and ground turkey. Data was produced which can be used to inform industry decision-making.

Findings provided insights into the prevalence and control of Salmonella contamination on turkey carcasses between re-hang, post-chill and ground turkey. Data was produced which can be used to inform industry decision-making.

The full industry summary can be found on the USPOULTRY website. Information on other Association research may also be obtained by visiting the USPOULTRY website, uspoultry.org.

Source: US Poultry & Egg Association

Avian flu found in another poultry farm in the Fraser Valley

Another commercial poultry facility has been added to the list of farms where avian influenza has been detected in the Fraser Valley.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says more than 8.3 million birds have been culled in the province since a spike of infections in the spring of 2022.

That’s up from 7.6 million birds in an update earlier this week.

The agency says there is no evidence to suggest that eating cooked poultry or eggs could transmit the virus to humans.

All in One Basket – 12.13.24

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