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Industry News
2/9/2010
Poultry processor featured on Discovery Channel
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Salisbury, Md.-based Perdue Farms announced it will be one of seven companies from around the world featured on the premiere of a new Discovery Channel program about environmental leaders.
Other Organizations' News
2/17/2010
Poultry industry safety program created
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WASHINGTON – In order to recognize those facilities that have achieved a high level of safety performance through the implementation of innovative and effective safety and health programs, the Joint Poultry Industry Safety and Health Council announces the first annual safety award program
2/1/2010
Poultry Association Elects New Officers
The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association elected the 2010 slate of officers and directors during the International Poultry Expo.
Poultry News
2/9/2010
Feed, poultry expo draws 19K in attendance
The 2010 International Feed Expo, organized by the American Feed Industry Association, and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association's International Poultry Expo, drew attendance of approximately 19,000, surpassing the 2009 attendance of less than 18,000, according to AFIA.
Government News
1/11/2010
USDA LAUNCHES TOLL-FREE HELP DESK FOR SMALL MEAT AND POULTRY PROCESSORS
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) today announced the opening of its new small plant help-desk, which will provide for operators of small and very small meat, poultry and processed egg products establishments seeking help with agency requirements with direct access to knowledgeable staff specialists. The help-desk also will provide assistance to state and local food regulatory agencies – FSIS' partners in keeping meat, poultry and egg products safe for consumers
Industry News
1/15/2010
Saskatchewan to dump poultry licensing rules
The agriculture ministry of Saskatchewan in Canada has plans afoot to repeal the provincial regulations requiring licensing in the hatchery and poultry industries.
1/22/2010
Analysts bullish on chicken industry in 2010
(USA) Encouraged by improving chicken prices and margins, Wall Street analysts are ratcheting up expectations for Tyson Foods and Sanderson Farms in the new year. "Chicken fundamentals have reached an inflection point," said BMO Capital Markets' Kenneth Zaslow in a note to clients Friday.
1/4/2010
Pilgrim’s Pride board shaken up
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Wesley Mendonca Batista, chief operating officer of JBS S.A., has replaced 81-year-old Lonnie "Bo" Pilgrim as chair on the board of directors of Pilgrim's Pride Corp., according to a filing at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
1/2/2010
Pilgrim's Pride Completes Reorganization; New Stock to Trade on New York Stock Exchange
PITTSBURG, Texas, Dec. 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Pilgrim's Pride Corporation (Pink Sheets: PGPDQ) today announced that the company and six of its subsidiaries have emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection after a 13-month restructuring
1/8/2010
Pilgrim’s Pride to move headquarters
The layoff of 160 employees at Pilgrim’s Pride headquarters and 70 administrative and corporate employees at 12 other locations is one of the latest steps in the restructuring of the company as part of JBS USA, the Dallas Business Journal reported.
Other Organizations' News
1/8/2010
2010 IPE/IFE Guide now available online
Turn to the 2010 International Expo Guide to plan and maximize your time at the International Poultry/International Feed Expo, January 27-29, in Atlanta, Ga.
Poultry News
1/8/2010
Top 11 list for the decade - with emphasis on Latin America
Making lists of the most significant events of the year and decade is very popular right now, so I decided to prepare my own list of the most significant events and tecnologies of the last decade: the 2000's.
This is a poultry industry perspective, with particular emphasis on Latin America (which explains many of my choices). (There are 11 items because I'd left a very important issue - ethanol - out of my original list)
University News
1/8/2010
New leader for University of Arkansas poultry science programs
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Michael T. Kidd has been appointed director of the Center of Excellence for Poultry Science and Head of the Department of Poultry Science at the University of Arkansas, the school announced.
Avian Influenza News
12/4/2009
H1N1 found in US turkey flock
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the pandemic H1N1 flu virus was confirmed in a flock of breeder turkeys in Virginia. It is the first case involving turkeys in the U.S.
Egg News
12/3/2009
Egg yolks help reduce sight loss
Researchers from Massachusetts University in the US have proven that by eating egg yolks regularly, people over 60 may be able to reduce the risk of age related sight loss caused by macular degeneration.
Industry News
12/18/2009
Chickens outpace horses in Kentucky
Kentucky’s revenue from poultry is projected to hit $930M this year, significantly higher than the horse industry’s predicted revenue of $750M, University of Kentucky agricultural economist Lee Meyer told the Associated Press. The poultry industry has grown rapidly in the past decade, with revenue increasing from $260M in 2001 to $918M in 2008, the AP reports.
12/8/2009
Tyson names execs for poultry, pork and beef units
SPRINGDALE, Ark. — Tyson Foods Inc. has promoted two executives to lead the company's poultry and beef and pork units, filling leadership positions created when the company named a new CEO and chief operating officer last month.
Other Organizations' News
12/1/2009
National Chicken Council Comment on Consumer Reports article: "Chicken is Safe"
"Chicken is safe. Like all fresh foods, raw chicken may have some microorganisms present, but these are destroyed by the heat of normal cooking. Consumers are encouraged to follow the safe handling and cooking instructions printed on every package of fresh meat and poultry sold in this country.
Poultry News
12/1/2009
Behind the numbers
At 14 percent, the overall salmonella incidence is within the range we've seen in the past 12 years. In previous tests, the incidence ranged from 9 percent to 16 percent overall. Campylobacter incidence has varied more. Now it's 62 percent overall; in our previous tests it ranged from 42 percent to 81 percent.
University News
12/14/2009
Texas A&M poultry team repeats as national champion
For the seventh time in the last eight competitions, the Texas A&M University Poultry Judging Team has won a national championship.
Avian Influenza News
11/20/2009
Researchers Suggest Avian Flu Pandemic Prevented Because Virus Needs to Undergo Two Simultaneous Mutations
The requirement for at least two simultaneous genetic mutations to occur before avian strains of flu readily transmit between people could explain why viruses such as H5N1 haven’t yet caused a human pandemic, according to research by scientists in the U.K. and U.S.
Egg News
11/6/2009
Study: Cage-free eggs would cost consumers
WASHINGTON -- Consumers would spend $2.66 billion more for eggs each year if U.S. egg farmers could no longer produce eggs in modern cage systems, according to a recent study.
Government News
11/20/2009
Vilsack spent millions for US food, ag exports
US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said that 70 US trade organizations received more than $234 mln in Fiscal Year 2009 to help promote American food and agricultural products overseas.
Industry News
11/20/2009
Tyson names new c.e.o., c.o.o.
SPRINGDALE, ARK. — John Tyson, chairman of the board of Tyson Foods, Inc. announced on Nov. 19 that Donnie Smith, currently senior group vice-president of Poultry and Prepared Foods, will be the company’s president and chief executive officer, effective immediately. Additionally, Jim Lochner, currently senior group vice-president of Fresh Meats, has been named the company’s chief operating officer.
Other Organizations' News
11/6/2009
Conservation Reserve Program Letter to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, October 19, 2009.
11/6/2009
American Egg Board October 09 Newsletter
11/20/2009
The Ultimate Turkey Cooking Guide
The holiday season can be a busy time. We hope these links help you in the preparation of holiday meals and celebration
Poultry News
11/30/2009
US: Poultry sustainability at work
The US meat and poultry industries are increasingly turning their attention to creating renewable products (such as adhesives and plastics) from the animal by-products that can't be sold in supermarkets.
11/6/2009
U.S. troops help restart Iraqi poultry plant
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BAGHDAD — On Oct. 31, U.S. soldiers used their agriculture and engineering expertise to help bring an idle chicken processing plant near Mahmudiyah back into operation; one that will provide food and jobs, according to Sgt. Jon Soles of the Multi-National Division Baghdad.
11/6/2009
Code of Practice for Salmonella control
In the UK, the revised Code of Practice for the Control of Salmonella in Animal Feeds has been published in partnership with the Food Standards Agency.
11/6/2009
Ohio passes livestock standards board initiative
Following a campaign with strong support from the agricultural community led by the Ohio Farm Bureau, Ohio's State Issue #2 passed with support from nearly two-thirds of voters.
Egg News
10/5/2009
World Egg Day celebrated on 9 Oct
World Egg Day on 9 October brings together consumers to health professionals to celebrate the big benefits that come from such a unique package - the egg.
Government News
10/12/2009
AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK LAUNCHES NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, ANNOUNCES VISION FOR SCIENCE AND RESEARCH AT USDA
WASHINGTON, October 8, 2009 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today launched the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) with a major speech regarding the role of science and research at USDA. At an event at the National Press Club with John Holdren, Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, Vilsack outlined his vision for addressing the some of the world's major challenges over the coming decades:
Industry News
10/14/2009
US, Brazil poultry industries sign MOU
Poultry industry leaders in the US and Brazil signed a Memorandum of Understanding, pledging to work cooperatively on common issues while remaining staunch competitors.
10/28/2009
Chicken and egg report is good news for poultry companies
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September declines in pullets and broiler-type hatching layers spell good news for companies like Tyson Foods and Sanderson Farms, according to an analysis of USDA's Chicken and Eggs Report, which was released on Friday.
Other Organizations' News
10/2/2009
National Chicken Council installs new leadership
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Thomas Hensley Jr., president of Fieldale Farms Corp. was installed Thursday as chairman of the National Chicken Council, while Bernard Leonard, group vice president/food service for Tyson Foods Inc. took office as vice chairman and Lampkin Butts, president of Sanderson Farms, became secretary-treasurer, NCC announced.
10/2/2009
GROUPS URGE TRADE REPRESENTATIVE TO CHALLENGE E.U. BARRIER TO U.S. POULTRY
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative is being jointly urged by four concerned groups to have the World Trade Organization (WTO) determine if a major barrier to U.S. poultry exports to the European Union is a violation of WTO’s rules. In a September 24 letter to U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk the National Chicken Council, USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, National Turkey Federation, and the National Association of Manufacturers re-confirmed their strong support for U.S. Trade Representative action that would result in a WTO dispute settlement panel that addresses the EU’s blocking action against four antimicrobials that reduce pathogens during poultry processing.
Government News
9/24/2009
FDA: new rules to reduce Salmonella from eggs
New federal regulations require most egg producers to take steps to prevent the spread of Salmonella enteritidis, reports the American Veterinary Medical Association.
9/24/2009
Slaughter seeks new study on animal antibiotic
New York Rep. Louise Slaughter, has asked the Government Accountability Office to conduct a new study on the federal government’s tracking and monitoring antibiotic use in animals and the government’s efforts to assess and mitigate "human health risk related to antibiotic use in animals".
Industry News
9/24/2009
Pilgrim's Pride files plan of reorganisation
Pilgrim's Pride and 6 of its subsidiaries that are debtors and debtors in possession in the chapter 11 cases pending in the US Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas have announced they have filed a joint plan of reorganisation and disclosure statement under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.
9/8/2009
JBS S.A. addresses Pilgrim's Pride acquisition rumor
SAO PAULO, BRAZIL – In the aftermath of rumors about an impending sale of Pilgrim’s Pride to JBS S.A. that began circulating in the media in recent days, JBS e-mailed a news release to MEATPOULTRY.com on Sept. 2 addressing the rumor—although it never mentioned Pilgrim’s Pride. The company statement said it routinely and constantly analyzes investment opportunities for expansion and growth.
9/11/2009
Broiler chick placements down 2%
WASHINGTON – During the week ending Sept. 5, broiler growers in the 19-state weekly program placed 167 million chicks for meat production. Placements were down 2% from the comparable week a year earlier, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Agricultural Statistics Board, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
9/11/2009
Meat and poultry industry significant for US economy
America's meat and poultry industry, comprised of packers and processors, wholesalers and retailers, directly and indirectly contributes $832.4 billion dollars annually to the US economy, roughly 5% of total GDP, according to a new Economic Impact Study from the American Meat Institute (AMI).
9/16/2009
JBS, Pilgrim's Pride work out a deal
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Pilgrim's Pride Corp. on Wednesday announced that under a reorganization plan filed under Chapter 11 bankruptcy the company will sell 64 percent of its new common stock to JBS S.A. for $800 million in cash.
9/17/2009
JBS S.A. explains rationale behind Bertin deal
SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL — After several weeks of rumors circulating in the media about an impending JBS S.A. acquisition of Pilgrim’s Pride, JBS announced on Sept. 16 it was set to acquire a majority stake in Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. through its U.S. subsidiary JBS USA Holdings Inc.
9/29/2009
Ceva invests $15 mln in poultry vaccine facility
Ceva Santé Animale, involved in the animal health industry, is investing $15 mln in a new world-class poultry vaccine production plant for its US subsidiary, Ceva Biomune, Lenexa, Kan.
9/29/2009
Turkeys raised in U.S. down 8% from year-ago total
WASHINGTON — So far in 2009, turkeys raised in the U.S. total 250 million, down 8% from the number raised during the same time in 2008, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Agricultural Statistics Board, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Avian Influenza News
8/25/2009
Chile confirms H1N1 spread from humans to turkeys
Chile's health ministry has confirmed the first reports of the H1N1 virus spreading from people to turkeys on two farms, as reported by the Associated Press. The farms are located outside the city of Valparaiso.
Industry News
8/6/2009
Economist more optimistic than USDA on chicken cutbacks
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The U.S. poultry industry has slashed production in response to high corn prices and weak demand. This year, the sector is expected to post its first year-over-year decline in output in more than three decades. In an interview with Meatingplace, Bill Roenigk, economist and senior vice president at the National Chicken Council, gives a frank assessment of what lies ahead.
8/25/2009
Production down for US turkeys
Turkey production in the U.S. for the first six months of 2009 is down 9.4%, totaling 2.8 billion pounds, compared to the same period in 2008, according to the most recent Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook from USDA's Economic Research Service.
8/25/2009
Broiler industry not yet on board for SIP
FSIS's Salmonella Initiative Program has encountered resistance from the U.S. broiler industry.
Avian Influenza News
7/6/2009
Mexico wins praise for swine flu response
CANCUN, Mexico (AP) — As swine flu runs rampant in the Southern Hemisphere winter, world health experts are concerned that some hard-hit countries have been reluctant to take forceful measures to protect public health.
Government News
7/6/2009
USDA: Aging poultry lab to receive stimulus money
Athens' Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory will get a slice of federal stimulus money, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced.
7/2/2009
USDA forecasts increase in broiler production
The latest USDA forecast shows the prices for broiler products are on the rise.
Industry News
7/8/2009
U.S. chicken feet are being booted out of China
CHICAGO, July 7 (Reuters) - China and the United States are kicking up a trade war over chicken in which Beijing effectively has given the boot to millions of dollars worth of U.S. chicken, about half of which is chicken feet.
7/20/2009
Foster Farms officially takes over Farmerville poultry plant
Met with a hero’s welcome, Gov. Bobby Jindal and Foster Farms CEO Ron Foster joined area officials last Saturday in marking a new beginning for the Farmerville poultry processing facility.
7/27/2009
Pilgrim's Pride idles chicken processing plants
Pilgrim's Pride has announced plans to idle its chicken processing plant in Athens, Ala., and one of its two plants in Athens, Ga., within 60-75 days as part of its continuing effort to improve capacity utilization and reduce costs.
7/27/2009
Sanderson proceeds with new poultry complex
Sanderson Farms has announced that its Board of Directors has approved plans to proceed with the construction and start-up of the company's Kinston, North Carolina, poultry complex.
Poultry News
7/27/2009
New biofuel from chicken meal
Researchers at the University of Nevada have published a paper in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry describing a new process to produce biodiesel from feather meal.
7/13/2009
Attractive male chickens release fewer sperm
Attractive male chickens release fewer sperm per mating to maximise their chances of producing offspring across a range of females, according to a new paper on the evolution of ejaculation strategies.
7/13/2009
Bacteria worse in stressed chickens
Food poisoning bacteria become more invasive in animals that are stressed, according to new research from the University of Bristol in collaboration with the UK poultry industry.
7/15/2009
US may restrict antibiotics in livestock
The Obama administration will seek to ban many routine uses of antibiotics in farm animals with the aim of reducing the spread of dangerous bacteria in humans.
7/2/2009
Chicken feathers put to use – hydrogen storage
Researchers have discovered that carbonised chicken feathers could provide an inexpensive, environmentally friendly way to store hydrogen fuel for future motor vehicles.
7/2/2009
Twitter and PSA 09 Annual Meeting
The Poultry Science Association will be posting short meeting updates and announcements, or "tweets", at http://twitter.com/PSA09.
University News
7/7/2009
Feather fibers fluff up hydrogen storage capacity
Scientists at the University of Delaware say they have developed a new hydrogen storage method -- carbonized chicken feather fibers -- that can hold vast amounts of hydrogen, a promising but difficult to corral fuel source, and do it at a far lower cost than other hydrogen storage systems under consideration
Avian Influenza News
6/10/2009
Bird flu can survive 150 days in water
New data has allowed a team of University of Georgia researchers to create the first model that takes into account both direct and indirect transmission of the viruses among birds. The model has the potential to shed new light on how outbreaks begin in wild bird populations.
Industry News
6/12/2009
Tyson, Pilgrim’s Pride get part of stimulus package
The USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service signed four contracts worth $1.8 million with Tyson and Pilgrim's Pride to purchase chickens and eggs for local school lunch programs and food banks, according to CNN.
6/3/2009
Tyson sees chicken business improving in 3Q
Tyson Foods Inc., the world's largest meat producer, said Tuesday that structural changes and better market conditions are helping its chicken business.
Poultry News
6/22/2009
Avian bacterium pathogenic in poultry
Until recently, Bordetella hinzii was believed to be nonpathogenic in poultry. But Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists have shown that the bacterium caused severe disease in turkeys that was attributed to another Bordetella species.
Avian Influenza News
5/4/2009
H1N1 “Swine Flu” Not a Food Safety Concern, Government Confirms
The U.S. government has stated that the current outbreak of H1N1 "swine flu" in humans is not a food safety concern.
Education News
5/9/2009
Grand opening of the National Poultry Museum
The National Poultry Museum, an endeavor over 15 years in the making, opens today, May 8, 2009.
Industry News
5/15/2009
Broiler companies show profits this year
The average U.S. broiler company returned to profitability in January 2009 and profits strengthened in February and March, said Dana Weatherford, vice president, Agri Stats.
5/21/2009
Perdigão Acquires Sadia
Bloomberg reports that Perdigão SA, Brazil's largest food company, agreed to take over rival Sadia SA in a share-swap transaction that will form the world’s biggest poultry processor by market value, overtaking Tyson Foods Inc. of the US.
5/28/2009
Pullet inventory sees steep decline
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The number of broiler-type pullets (young breeder hens) hatched in April fell 13.5 percent from the same month a year earlier, according to USDA reports. That's the biggest decline in that number since May 1992.
5/29/2009
Pilgrim's Pride rejects bid for El Dorado plant
EL DORADO, Ark. -- Pilgrim's Pride has rejected a bid by a poultry company that wanted to buy Pilgrim's shuttered chicken processing plant in El Dorado, Ark.
5/4/2009
Tyson earns environmental awards
The American Meat Institute Foundation (AMIF) recognised 32 Tyson Foods operations with environmental awards at its annual Conference on Worker Safety, Health, Human Resources and the Environment.
5/1/2009
Brazil to bail out poultry industry: report
The Brazilian government said it is considering extending a line of credit of up to $1.38 billion to bailout the country's struggling poultry industry, Trade and Industry Minister Miguel Jorge told Reuters.
Other Organizations' News
5/4/2009
News from AEB
5/29/2009
News from the American Egg Board
Poultry News
5/4/2009
The Chicken Industry Is Committed to Environmental Protection
The broiler chicken industry in the United States is firmly committed to the protection of the environment – the air, land, and water. The industry spends millions of dollars per year on all aspects of environmental protection and works closely with the farmers who raise chickens to assist them in proper environmental management.
University News
5/4/2009
Poultry Scientist Receives Sigma Xi Imhoff Award
Professor Wayne Kuenzel, department of poultry science at the University of Arkansas, was awarded the John Imhoff Outstanding Research Publication Award by the UA Chapter of Sigma Xi.
5/28/2009
California closes poultry health lab
After an unsuccessful pursuit of a budgetary increase, the decision has been made to close the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory Systems' Fresno facility, effective July 19, according to the CAHFS Web site.
Avian Influenza News
4/13/2009
In Brief: United States approves rapid avian flu test
DAKAR, 10 April 2009 (IRIN) - The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a test that can detect the deadly H5N1 virus in humans through throat or nose swabs in 40 minutes. Current laboratory analyses that detect the avian flu strain can take up to four hours for confirmation.
Egg News
4/3/2009
Thinkegg.com has been launched
Designed to promote eggs through interesting egg facts and tasty recipes from around the world, ThinkEgg.com, the International Egg Commission's consumer website, is now live.
Industry News
4/19/2009
Poults placed for 2009 slaughter down 10% year-to-date
Turkey producers have continued to respond to relatively poor returns by placing fewer poults than in the prior year in the month of March. According to USDA data, 9% fewer poults were hatched in March 2009 than were hatched in the same month last year
4/19/2009
USDA lowers broiler production estimate
USDA Economic Research Service lowered its production estimates for U.S. broiler meat production in 2009 in a report released April 16. The revised forecast expects 35.5 billion pounds to be produced in 2009, down 4% from last year. This estimate was reduced a total of 300 million pounds from the prior forecast
4/29/2009
First quarter U.S. poultry slaughter down 7%
The total pounds of poultry slaughtered in the U.S. in the first quarter of 2009 were 7% lower than the slaughter volume in the first quarter of 2008, according to USDA data.
Other Organizations' News
4/3/2009
GET CRACKING THIS EASTER HOLIDAY
American Egg Board Challenges Moms to Hard COOK (not BOIL) Their Eggs
4/24/2009
Poultry industry organisations, joint councils
US Poultry & Egg Association, National Chicken Council, and National Turkey Federation have formed joint councils on human resources and safety.
Poultry News
4/7/2009
Poultry groups challenge EPA CAFO regulation
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The National Chicken Council and the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association have filed suit in the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans to challenge certain aspects of the Environmental Protection Agency's new regulation on water pollution discharges from so-called confined animal feeding operations, or CAFOs, the groups said in a news release.
University News
4/19/2009
Texas A&M poultry judging team repeats as national champions
COLLEGE STATION - The Texas A&M University Poultry Judging Team repeated as national champions at the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association National Collegiate Poultry Judging Contest.
Government News
3/2/2009
'Restructuring' sought for food safety
WASHINGTON — Although the Food and Drug Administration bears the brunt of the nation’s food-safety oversight, at least 15 government agencies have a hand in making sure food is safe under at least 30 different laws, some of which date back to the early 1900s. It's a convoluted system, according to The Associated Press.
3/16/2009
WEEKLY ADDRESS: President Barack Obama Announces Key FDA Appointments and Tougher Food Safety Measures
WASHINGTON – In his weekly address, President Barack Obama announced the appointments of Dr. Margaret Hamburg as Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, and Dr. Joshua Sharfstein as the Principal Deputy Commissioner, as well as the creation of a new Food Safety Working Group. This Food Safety Working Group will be chaired by the Secretaries of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture and it will coordinate with other agencies and senior officials to advise the President on improving coordination throughout the government, examining and upgrading food safety laws, and enforcing laws that will keep the American people safe.
Industry News
3/2/2009
Pilgrim’s Pride closes 3 chicken plant
Pilgrim's Pride has announced that it will idle 3 US chicken processing plants and lay off approx. 3,000 workers. The poultry processor, which is currently reorganizing under bankruptcy protection, says these measures will reduce production by as much as 10%.
3/11/2009
Schering-Plough and Merck announce merger
Merck & Co., Inc. and Schering-Plough Corp have announced a definitive merger agreement under which the companies Merck and Schering-Plough will combine, under the name Merck, in a stock and cash transaction.
3/16/2009
Broiler group questions government’s 2009 poultry production forecast
THE GOVERNMENT expects poultry production to grow faster this year, even as at least one industry group sees dampened demand amid the economic slowdown.
3/23/2009
Pilgrim's Pride sells chicken complex for $80 mln
Pilgrim's Pride Corporation announced that it has agreed to sell its chicken complex in Farmerville, La., to Foster Farms for $80 mln.
Other Organizations' News
3/23/2009
WATT announces online community for poultry industry
WATT has announced the beta launch of AnimalAgNet.com, an online social networking community for those involved in animal agriculture. The site is created for producers, processors and marketers and others working in any phase of animal agriculture, including poultry.
Poultry News
3/23/2009
More than 1 million infected chickens culled in Texas
COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS Last week, more than 1.4 million chickens were culled in Robertson County after infectious laryngotracheitis (I.L.T.) a rare respiratory infection was detected in some of the birds, according to TheEagle.com. Texas Animal Health Commission officials emphasized I.L.T. isn't dangerous for people, even if they eat meat infected with the disease,
Government News
2/12/2009
US: One food safety agency
The functions of USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service that regulate meat, poultry and egg safety may be merged with the part of the US Food and Drug Administration that regulates the rest of the food supply.
2/6/2009
USDA issues final rule on COOL labeling
WASHINGTON -- USDA on Jan. 12 announced details of the final regulation for the mandatory country of origin labeling (COOL) program required by the 2002 and 2008 farm bills. The full text of the final rule was published in the Jan. 15, 2009, Federal Register. The rule becomes effective on March 16, 2009, 60 days after the date of publication. Copies of the final rule and additional information are on display online at http://www.ams.usda.gov/COOL.
Industry News
2/12/2009
Europe's largest PS hatchery open
Aviagen has opened Europe’s largest Parent Stock (PS) hatchery at Hilbersdorf, near Dresden, in Germany.
2/18/2009
Tyson to aggressively grow poultry business
Tyson's chicken business experienced a tough time in 2008, but signs of improvement are breaking through, says senior group vice president Poultry & Prepared Foods, Donnie Smith.
2/24/2009
2008 a record year for US poultry exports
Exports of US broiler meat, excluding chicken paws, rose 18% in 2008 from 2007 to a record quantity of 3.2 mln mt.
Other Organizations' News
2/18/2009
Scientists See No Advantage to Gas Killing For Chickens Over Conventional Stunning
According to scientists, there is no advantage in terms of animal welfare for gas killing systems for poultry compared to the conventional stunning systems used by the United States chicken industry. The industry feels that while gas systems are worthy of further study, there is no proven reason yet to move away from conventional stunning systems
2/6/2009
STATEMENT BY THE EGG NUTRITION CENTER AND AMERICAN EGG BOARD ON DIABETES CARE STUDY ON EGG CONSUMPTION
Park Ridge, Ill. (February 4, 2009) – A large body of science supports the beneficial role eggs play in a healthful diet. Eggs provide high-quality protein for growth, muscle strength and energy and promote weight management. Key nutrients found in eggs have also been shown to reduce the risk of neural tube birth defects and promote eye health. An article published in the November 2008 issue of Diabetes Care that examined data collected in the Physicians’ Health Study I and the Women’s Health Study found an association between egg intake and increased incidence of type 2 diabetes.i Given the large body of research supporting the health and nutritional benefits of egg consumption, this finding is unexpected. However, in light of the importance of this research and its implications, further research is warranted to replicate the finding and to identify potential physiological mechanisms.
2/6/2009
AMERICA’S EGG FARMERS LAUNCH
NEW INCREDIBLE EDIBLE EGG™ ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN FOCUSING ON “BODY AND MIND”
Park Ridge, Ill. (Feb. 3, 2009) – America’s egg producers are unveiling “Incredible People,” a new
integrated advertising campaign in support of the incredible edible egg™. The campaign reminds
Americans that the all‐natural, high‐quality protein in the eggs they love provides them with the energy
they need for both body and mind.
2/6/2009
National Chicken Council and Other Groups Oppose Boost in Ethanol Content of Gasoline
The National Chicken Council and other food and agribusiness groups are opposing a drive by the ethanol industry to raise the percentage of ethanol that can legally be added to motor gasoline, a limit now set at 10 percent to protect engine performance and fuel mileage.
Government News
1/26/2009
SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE VILSACK LAYS OUT PRIORITIES, EXTENDS COMMENT PERIOD FOR PAYMENT LIMITATIONS RULE
WASHINGTON, Monday, January 26, 2009-Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced he will extend the comment period for the 2008 Farm Bill Farm Program Payment Limitation and Payment Eligibility rulemaking process.
Industry News
1/30/2009
Cobb Europe acquires Kabir breeds
Kabir International, specialising in coloured chickens for niche markets around the world, has been acquired by Cobb Europe Ltd.
1/20/2009
EU restrictions on U.S. poultry challenged through WTO
(free registration required)
The United States has filed a case with the World Trade Organization regarding the European Union's ban on the import and marketing of U.S. poultry processed with pathogen reduction treatments judged safe by both U.S. and European food safety authorities, the U.S. Trade Representative announced.
1/20/2009
USDA issues naturally raised marketing claim standard
(free registration required)
USDA on Friday issued a voluntary standard for naturally raised livestock and meat marketing claims.
1/23/2009
Tyson acquires poultry rendering company
Tyson Foods has reportedly completed the acquisition of Central Industries, a poultry by-products rendering company in Forest, Miss., US.
1/6/2009
USDA makes bonus purchase of chicken
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) this week purchased approximately 60.5 million pounds of chicken products at a cost of about $42 million to assist the broiler industry, which has experienced significant financial losses.
1/6/2009
CEO Quits at Meat Giant Tyson
Richard L. Bond quit Monday as chief executive officer of Tyson Foods Inc. amid internal tensions over how to navigate the meat industry's worst slump in decades.
1/23/2009
Tyson expands in Brazil with processor, grower agreements
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Tyson Foods' Tyson do Brasil unit has contracted with Brazilian poultry company Globoaves to produce and slaughter chickens, and is setting agreements with 670 new growers with a goal of becoming one of the five main poultry producers in Brazil.
1/30/2009
Tyson Brazil boosting chicken exports
Tyson Foods' Brazilian unit receives export licenses for all its plants in the country. The processor plans to generate between 60 and 70% of its Brazilian revenues from exports by the end of 2009.
Other Organizations' News
1/23/2009
Chicken Wings Are Hot Items As Football Finale Nears
Whether you are rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL championship on February 1, chances are you will be within reach of a platter of delectable, golden-brown chicken wings. The National Chicken Council estimates that more than one billion wing portions will be served during the last football weekend.
1/30/2009
Midwest Poultry Federation Convention slated for March 17-19
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The 38th annual Midwest Poultry Federation Convention, which is billed as the largest regional poultry convention in the United States, is scheduled for March 17-19 at the RiverCentre in St. Paul, Minn., the Midwest Poultry Federation announced.
1/30/2009
IPE 2009
Poultry News
1/8/2009
Top 10 poultry stories chronicle wild 2008
The poultry industry’s No. 1 news story in 2008 was the bankruptcy of Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation, the world’s largest poultry company.
1/30/2009
Europe: welfare rules for meat chickens
Plans to implement Europe’s first comprehensive welfare rules on chickens raised for meat have been released for consultation by UK Farming Minister Jane Kennedy.
University News
1/6/2009
UK researchers turn turkey feathers into gift wrap
Researchers at the United Kingdom’s University of Manchester School of Materials have created a way to turn turkey feathers into wrapping paper and other products such as egg boxes and fire-retardant plant pots.
Government News
12/10/2008
FDA retracts ban on poultry antibiotic
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will continue to allow the widespread use of a class of powerful antibiotics in food-producing animals, including chickens and other poultry.
12/18/2008
Vilsack named to lead U.S.D.A.
CHICAGO — President-elect Barack Obama held a press conference today to nominate former Iowa governor Tom Vilsack as Secretary of Agriculture.
Industry News
12/19/2008
The fall of Pilgrim’s Pride: Special news feature
Highly leveraged after the Gold Kist acquisition, the company needed a run of favorable markets and shrewd decisions. Both ran out.
12/19/2008
Tyson Foods Signs New Lender Agreement
MILWAUKEE (AP) -- Tyson Foods Inc., the world's largest meat company, said Wednesday it has signed a new agreement with its creditors that puts up just about the entire company as collateral for its loans.
12/29/2008
Broiler chick placements, egg sets decline
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Broiler growers in the 19-State weekly program placed 168 million chicks for meat production during the week ending Dec. 20, 2008, according to USDA statistics.
12/2/2008
Gold'n Plump debuts chickens with farm-of-origin label
Ever wonder where your chicken came from? Gold’n Plump Poultry is now selling chickens that provide answers.
12/2/2008
Pilgrim's Pride files for bankruptcy
PITTSBURG, TEXAS — Facing financial challenges, Pilgrim’s Pride Corp., one of the nation’s leading chicken processors, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas.
12/29/2008
Tyson cutting chicken production: analyst
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In order to better match supply with shrinking demand, Tyson Foods Inc. is cutting both beef and chicken production, the latter of which marks a significant development in the poultry industry, according to Stephens Inc. analyst Farha Aslam.
12/29/2008
U.S. poultry industry 'in a contraction phase': L.M.I.C.
WASHINGTON Higher feed costs, an over supply of broiler meat as well as economic slowdowns in the domestic and foreign markets have pressured poultry prices and left the industry struggling to maintain any type of profitability. As a result, the U.S. poultry industry is clearly in a contraction phase at this point in time, according to the Livestock Marketing Information Center.
12/8/2008
Chicken sales increase over 2008
Chicken sales increased 6.7% in 2008, according to "The Fresh Meat Market in the U.S.: Beef, Chicken, Pork, Turkey and Lamb in Retail and Foodservice", from Packaged Facts.
Other Organizations' News
12/5/2008
News From the American Egg Board
12/29/2008
Poultry industry and USDA urge farm registration
(free registration required)
The National Turkey Federation, National Chicken Council and United Egg Producers are urging farmers to register their premises with the National Animal Identification System to help protect their flocks in the event of an outbreak of disease.
Poultry News
12/19/2008
Oklahoma appeals decision on poultry littering
TULSA, Okla. — Oklahoma’s attorney general has hardly given up on the state’s pollution case targeting 13 Arkansas-based poultry companies. In a case droning on for years, the state alleges the companies are polluting the Illinois River watershed with bird waste. The state's 61-page appeal of an earlier judge's ruling was filed late in the day on Dec. 15 with the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver, according to The Associated Press.
12/19/2008
Poultry Groups Welcome EPA Final Rule On Air Release Reporting
The National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation, and U.S. Poultry & Egg Association issued a joint statement welcoming today’s announcement from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency granting an exemption for poultry farms from having to report naturally occurring air releases of ammonia and hydrogen sulfide as an "emergency release" under the CERCLA and EPCRA emergency reporting framework. The exemption affects a majority of the family farmers engaged in poultry live production that operate in the United States.
12/12/2008
Poultry consumption lowest in 7 years
The supply of poultry and red meat was sufficient throughout most of 2008, however, per capita is reportedly the lowest in 7 years, says the Livestock Marketing Information Centre.
12/5/2008
Transporting Broiler Chickens Could Spread Antibiotic-resistant Organisms
ScienceDaily (Nov. 25, 2008) — Researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have found evidence of a novel pathway for potential human exposure to antibiotic-resistant bacteria from intensively raised poultry — driving behind the trucks transporting broiler chickens from farm to slaughterhouse.
12/5/2008
National Chicken Council Criticizes Study Based on Tailgating Chicken Trucks
The National Chicken Council has criticized a study of bacteria allegedly flying off chicken trucks as unfocused, unrealistic, and rather unsafe.
12/29/2008
Europe keeps US poultry off the Xmas menu over chlorine use
BRUSSELS (AFP) — European Union farm ministers rejected Thursday attempts to lift a ban on US poultry which is washed in chlorine, ensuring that American turkeys will not grace Europe's Christmas dinner tables.
12/29/2008
7 poultry trade issues for the Obama administration
Here are the top seven trade policy recommendations that U.S. poultry and egg exporters have for the Obama administration. – by Gary Thornton
University News
12/5/2008
Texas A&M Poultry Judging Team wins fifth national championship
COLLEGE STATION—The Texas A&M University Poultry Judging Team won its fifth national championship in the National Collegiate Poultry Judging Contest.
12/2/2008
Nicholas Sallas Named First Recipient of Thaxton Animal Welfare Assistantship; Dr. Wayne Kuenzel Named to KFC Animal Welfare Advisory Council
LOUISVILLE, Ky., Dec 01, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Nicholas Joseph Sallas of Columbiana, Ala., has been named the first recipient of the J. Paul Thaxton Graduate Assistantship for the study of Animal Welfare. The assistantship at Mississippi State University's Poultry Science Department is funded by KFC and the Yum! Brands Foundation.
Government News
11/29/2008
USDA-NASS Poultry Slaughter
Released November 28, 2008, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service(NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, U.S. Department of Agriculture
11/29/2008
USDA-NASS Egg Products
Released November 28, 2008, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service(NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, U.S. Department of Agriculture
11/29/2008
USDA-ERS Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook: Tables
November outlooks
Industry News
11/29/2008
Turkey meat gaining popularity year-round
Turkey meat and cuts are proving to be popular consumer products year-round in the US, according to the National Turkey Federation’s 2008 Marketplace Survey.
11/29/2008
Poultry prices
ATLANTA -- The Georgia f.o.b. dock-quoted price on broilers and fryers for this week's trading is 86.75 cents based on full truck load lots of ice pack USDA grade "A" sized 2 to 3 pound birds.
11/3/2008
EPA finalizes CAFO rule for manure‚ wastewater
October 31, 2008—The Environmental Protection Agency has finalized a rule requiring concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) to safely manage manure and wastewater.
11/29/2008
Prospects for Expanding Egg Consumption
While total egg consumption and the uptake of eggs/person will continue to grow long term virtually everywhere, in developing countries the gains will be via purchases of shell eggs. In contrast, the rise for many developed economies will reflect an increase in eggs eaten in egg products,which in some instances will be at the expense of the uptake in shell. Indeed, as can be seen by reference to the table, in the USA, the proportion of eggs broken for further processing and consumed in product forms now exceeds 30% of total production, and some industry observers consider that this figure will rise to 50% by 2020
Poultry News
11/5/2008
Birds of a Feather: Commercial Producers Play Chicken with Avian Flu
In the late 1980s thousands of chickens died from a cancer caused by a virus known as avian leukosis virus J because they were all descended from a few roosters susceptible to the disease.
11/14/2008
Poultry industry must remain focused
November 11, 2008—The poultry industry must remain disciplined and focused in the face of the current economic turmoil, says Richard Greubel, international president of Tyson Foods.
University News
11/3/2008
Poultry science expert honored for contributions to field
Daniel Fletcher, professor and head of the Department of Animal Science, has been inducted into the International Poultry Hall of Fame.
Avian Influenza News
10/9/2008
Double Flu Jab Needed Against Bird Flu Pandemic
ScienceDaily (Oct. 8, 2008) — An international study led by University of Leicester researchers has determined that vaccination will be the best way to protect people in the event of the next influenza pandemic – but that each person would need two doses.
10/22/2008
World ill-prepared for next flu pandemic: UN
UNITED NATIONS (AFP) — Despite widespread awareness of the risks of the next flu pandemic, the world needs to drastically improve cooperation in preparing for what would be a major global crisis, a UN report said Tuesday.
Government News
10/25/2008
World broiler production to increase 3.5% in 2009‚ predicts FAS
October 21, 2008—Broiler production in major countries is estimated to total 74,237,000 metric tons in 2009, 3.5% more than the 71,733,000 tons expected this year, according to data from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS).
10/31/2008
Broiler meat production will fall in the US
USDA projections show the first industry drop in 33 years, partly due to feed costs.
Industry News
10/22/2008
Food prices get no help from cheaper grains, oil
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. food prices are still headed for their largest increase in two decades this year despite the recent slide in oil and grain markets, the Agriculture Department said on Tuesday.
10/23/2008
Petaluma Poultry plans to cut emissions by 20%
October 21, 2008—Petaluma Poultry, one of the largest U.S. organic and free-range broiler producers, takes sustainability seriously. “Our target is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 20% over the next five years,” says vice president Dave Martinelli. This spring, Petaluma Poultry, headquartered about an hour north of San Francisco, began the process of setting a baseline for greenhouse gas emissions and joined the Environmental Protection Agency’s Climate Leaders Program.
10/13/2008
Poultry industry hopes for better times ahead
SALISBURY -- After going through what some experts call the worst market in decades, poultry companies are hopeful their industry will rebound after a year of skyrocketing production costs and dwindling profits.
Other Organizations' News
10/3/2008
New Members Elected to National Chicken Council Executive Committee and Board of Directors
Newly elected members of the National Chicken Council’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors were announced at the trade association’s Annual Conference here today.
10/3/2008
Roberts is Chairman of National Chicken Council; Hensley Named Vice Chairman; Leonard Becomes Secretary-Treasurer
Michael Roberts, president of the Food Products Business of Perdue Farms, Inc., Salisbury, Maryland, was installed today as Chairman of the National Chicken Council, the trade association for the chicken production and processing industry. Thomas Hensley, Jr., president of Fieldale Farms, Baldwin, Georgia, took office as Vice Chairman, and Bernard Leonard, group vice president/Food Service, Tyson Foods, Inc., Springdale, Arkansas, became Secretary-Treasurer.
10/1/2008
Poultry Veterinarian Documents the Benefits Of Antibiotic Use in Animals
Improvements in animal health management, including the judicious use of antibiotics, have led to healthier broiler flocks producing more meat for the consuming public, according to Dr. Spangler Klopp, testifying for the National Chicken Council at a congressional hearing.
10/1/2008
News from AEB
Poultry News
10/1/2008
$10 mln DNA technology selection project in poultry breeding
The USDA has partnered with Hendrix Genetics and Cobb-Vantress on a US$10 mln DNA technology selection project in poultry breeding.
10/3/2008
Chicken droppings cheap fertilizer for U.S. wheat
KANSAS CITY, Missouri (Reuters) - For Kansas farmer Jeff Fowler, planting and fertilizing a new wheat crop this fall is a fowl job. Literally.
Avian Influenza News
9/19/2008
Watch out for the other bird flu
WHATEVER happened to bird flu? The H5N1 virus has been storming across Eurasia and Africa since 2004, destroying birds and killing 245 people, according to official figures. But while it has faded from the headlines, governments and scientists are as concerned as ever about the dangers it poses.
9/1/2008
The Effects of Avian Influenza News on Consumer Purchasing Behavior: A Case Study of Italian Consumers’ Retail Purchase
To better understand how information about potential health hazards influences food demand, this case study examines consumers’ responses to newspaper articles on avian influenza, informally referred to as bird flu.
Feed News
9/19/2008
US Feed Outlook
A fall in US feed grain production this month largely caused by dry weather has only partially been offset by increases in foreign production, according to the US Feed Outlook by the Economic Research Service of the USDA.
Government News
9/26/2008
Secretary Schafer Welcomes Beth Johnson, Acting Under Secretary for Food Safety
Washington, D.C. September 25, 2008 – U.S. Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer welcomes the President's intention to designate Elizabeth (Beth) Johnson as Acting Under Secretary of Food Safety.
Industry News
9/26/2008
Pilgrim's Pride warns of 'significant loss' in Q4
PITTSBURG, TEXAS — Pilgrim’s Pride Corp., the world’s largest chicken processor, warned shareholders and the investment community early Thursday morning it will face a "significant loss" in its fiscal fourth quarter ended Sept. 27. The company attributed the pending loss to high feed-ingredient costs, continued weak pricing and demand for chicken breast meat, and "the significant negative impact of hedged grain positions during the quarter." Adding pressure to the company’s financial position is more than $1 billion in debt it took on with the acquisition of Gold Kist, Inc. in January 2007.
9/1/2008
Russia to Ban Imports of Some U.S. Poultry
MOSCOW (Reuters) — Russia, the biggest market for American poultry exporters, will ban imports from 19 producers in the United States and warned on Friday that an additional 29 suppliers face a possible ban on health and safety grounds.
9/5/2008
Tyson Foods offers common stock, convertible notes
SPRINGDALE, ARK. -- Tyson Foods Inc. intends to offer 20 million shares of its Class A common stock in a registered underwritten public offering. The company intends to grant the underwriters an option to purchase up to an additional 3-million shares of its Class A common stock to cover over-allotments, if any.
9/9/2008
Sanderson Farms named POULTRY magazine’s 2008 Industry Innovator Award winner
(free registration required)
POULTRY magazine has chosen Sanderson Farms as its 2008 Industry Innovator Award winner for the company's demonstrated excellence in the U.S. poultry industry in the areas of business success, philanthropy and leadership.
9/12/2008
Consumer confidence rebounds despite economic uncertainties
NEW YORK – Despite concerns about rising costs and a sputtering economy, among other things, it appears consumer confidence may be improving, according to recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index, which advanced for the second consecutive month.
9/19/2008
Tyson enters Brazilian poultry industry with 3 transactions
Tyson Foods is continuing the strategic expansion of its international business by investing in the Brazilian poultry industry, the company has announced.
Poultry News
9/1/2008
1,000 poultry sheds sold every week as urban families take to The Coop Life
Thousands of city dwellers are rearing chickens at home - thanks to celebrity chefs who have highlighted the plight of battery-farmed hens and championed locally grown food.
9/3/2008
Poultry vaccines could improve human health
WASHINGTON -- Garnering annual profits of $50 billion, the United States is the leader in the global poultry industry. But scientists are concerned about Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli, which caused an estimated $80 million in losses in 2002. A.P.E.C. has the potential to be as harmful as E. coli O157:H7, the strain responsible for human illness and death after consumption of contaminated meat.
9/22/2008
UK breeders to sell slow-growing birds
Slower growing breeds of chickens are being introduced by the British poultry industry following consumers' demands for more welfare-friendly farming.
Avian Influenza News
8/14/2008
Researchers fear other bird flu virus may cause pandemic
WASHINGTON (AFP) — US scientists Wednesday raised fears that a different strain of the bird flu virus could mutate to become more easily transmissible among humans and trigger a pandemic.
Government News
8/26/2008
USDA Rural Development to Hold Public Meeting on Farm Bill Renewable Energy Provisions
WASHINGTON, August 20, 2008 - Agriculture Under Secretary for Rural Development Thomas C. Dorr today announced that a public meeting will be held on Sept. 4, 2008-in conjunction with USDA's Farm Service Agency and Forest Service-on how to implement renewable energy programs authorized under the recently enacted farm bill.
8/13/2008
USDA Crop Production data
Corn production down 6 percent from 2007. Soybean production up 15 percent from last year. All wheat production virtually unchanged from July forecast.
Industry News
8/8/2008
Second half of 2008 still looks profitable
Virtually everyone in the egg business looked for 2008 to be a good one, and it still will end up being so, although adding up the year, profits won't be quite as rosy as they looked just months ago. The reason why: sky-high feed costs. Even so, egg production will end up being profitable in every month the second half of the year, or nearly so.
The Urner Barry Midwest price quote for May looked likely to average $1.10, near break even, "and prices will likely move up 10 cents to 20 cents from there to November-December," says Bob Pike, vice president and general manager for Braswell Foods, Nashville, N.C.
8/12/2008
Moody's gives negative outlook for food industry
NEW YORK — Moody’s Investors Service has rated the outlook for the U.S. food industry as "negative." The projection was made with the expectation commodity prices in 2009 will further surpass historical averages resulting in pressure on profit margins and putting cash flow at risk for most companies
Other Organizations' News
8/8/2008
Chicken Industry “Deeply Disappointed” by EPA Inaction On Ethanol Waiver, Urges Congress To Reform Program
The chicken industry is "deeply disappointed" by the Environmental Protection Agency's refusal to grant a waiver of the ethanol mandate that is diverting billions of bushels of corn from livestock and poultry feed into motor fuel, according to the National Chicken Council.
8/8/2008
News from AEB
8/1/2008
KFC is National Chicken Council’s First Partner in New Showcase of Chicken
The National Chicken Council (NCC) announced today that KFC is the first company to partner with NCC in the Council's newly-launched Showcase of Chicken. The showcase, on a quarterly basis, will recognize outstanding foodservice companies by featuring these partners on eatchicken.com, the consumer-oriented Web site maintained by NCC. Highlighted on a special section on eatchicken.com are KFC recipes, KFC's newest menu items, and insights into how company chefs at KFC dream up new ideas to meet consumer demand.
Poultry News
8/7/2008
Grain prices down, poultry processor stocks up
Traders have reacted positively to the prospect of lower feed prices as a result of falling prices of grains and soybeans
8/27/2008
First Biogas Plant Using 70 Percent Chicken Manure as Feedstock Inaugurated
The supposedly world's first biogas/biomethane plant that runs on 70 percent chicken
manure as a feedstock was officially inaugurated in Baasdorf (Eastern Germany) in August
2008. Compared to a standard biogas plant that runs predominantly on corn silage, the
Baasdorf plant needs a lot less acreage for the production of feedstock while simultaneously
providing an environmentally friendly way of disposing chicken manure. If economically
viable, biogas plants of these kinds could stir biogas production out of the line of fire in the
food versus fuel debate.
University News
8/4/2008
POULTRY: UD gets grant for avian flu research
DOVER - Researchers at the University of Delaware and 17 other institutions received a $5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to continue research and outreach programs related to avian flu
Feed News
7/17/2008
Poultry groups lament rising feed costs
HINTON, Va. - Virginia's poultry industry complains that too much of the nation's corn crop is being diverted to biofuel.
Government News
7/7/2008
FDA issues order prohibiting antimicrobial drug in poultry
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published a final rule that prohibits the extralabel use of cephalosporin antimicrobial drugs in food-producing animals, including chickens, turkeys, cattle and swine.
7/24/2008
Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook
This monthly report, presented in a newsletter format, provides current intelligence and forecasts the effects of changing conditions in the U.S. livestock, dairy, and poultry sectors. Topics include current production, consumption, trade, prices received, and more. Periodically, special reports on specific commodity issues also are released in this series.
7/6/2008
The Economic Organization of U.S. Broiler Production
Broiler production in the United States is coordinated almost entirely through systems of production contracts, in which a grower’s compensation is based, in part, on how the grower’s performance compares with that of other growers. The industry is undergoing a gradual structural change as production shifts to larger broiler enterprises that provide larger shares of an operator’s household income.
Industry News
7/7/2008
Abu Dhabi home to new poultry and meat processing plant
One of the largest meat and seafood processing factories in the Middle East is being constructed in Abu Dhabi, with an investment of Dh300 mln (€51 mln).
7/6/2008
Turkeys, eggs destroyed in fire at poultry farm
ORGAN CAVE, W.Va. (AP) — A large number of turkeys and eggs were destroyed in a fire at one of the world’s largest poultry breeding farms.
7/6/2008
New chicken plant being built in Lebanon, Ky.
LEBANON, KY. ― Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear announced on July 1 that Rancho Poultry, a joint venture between Keystone Foods of Pennsylvania and Lopez Foods in Oklahoma ― two McDonald�s suppliers ― plans to build a $43 million, 100,000 square-foot chicken-processing plant in Lebanon, Ky.
7/11/2008
Tyson’s poultry expands in India
Tyson Foods Inc. will immediately start expanding its poultry operations in India, the world’s second-most populous nation, after buying a controlling stake in a chicken processor there, the company said Monday.
7/14/2008
Foster Farms pulls plug on new Colorado plant
LIVINGSTON, CALIF. – Citing the state’s "higher-than-anticipated cost structure" and the impact of rising feed and fuel costs, executives with Foster Farms announced this past week it would not pursue plans to build a processing plant in northeastern Colorado.
7/17/2008
Tyson to buy 60 percent of Chinese poultry producer
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Tyson Foods Inc. has signed a preliminary agreement to buy 60 percent of Xinchang Group, the fifth largest poultry producer in China.
7/17/2008
Tyson fuel plant approved
(free registration required)
Tyson Foods and Syntroleum Corp. have approved plans to build and fund Dynamic Fuels' first renewable synthetic fuels facility in Geismar, La., clearing the way for construction to begin.
7/6/2008
Sanderson Farms to delay poultry plant construction
NEW YORK (Associated Press) - Sanderson Farms Inc. said Thursday it will not start construction on a planned $126.5 million poultry factory because higher costs have strained its budget.
Other Organizations' News
7/6/2008
XIII WPC Report: New Role for Poultry Outlined
AUSTRALIA - Top scientists from across the globe gathered in Brisbane yesterday to discuss the current threat to food security and how the poultry industry can help alleviate these strains, writes Jackie Linden, Poultrysite Editor.
7/7/2008
AVMA questions antibiotic ban in animals
Scientific data does not support a ban on the preventative use of antibiotics in food animals, according to The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
Poultry News
7/19/2008
Brazil to be world’s second-largest chicken producer
At the end of 2008, it is expected thatBrazil will overtake China in terms of chicken production, becoming the world's second-largest producer behind the US.
7/6/2008
Geneticists Shake the Avian Family Tree
An extensive study of bird genetics has revealed so many surprises about avian evolution that researchers say textbooks and field guides will have to be rewritten. After comparing the genetic codes of 169 species researchers realized that many assumptions about bird evolution are wrong; for example, they found that falcons are not closely related to hawks and eagles, and that flamingos didn’t evolve from other waterbirds.
Avian Influenza News
6/11/2008
CDC Finds Some Bird Flu Strains have Acquired Properties that Might Enhance Potential to Infect Humans
ATLANTA, Ga.-The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released results of a study suggesting that some North American avian influenza A H7 virus strains have properties that might enhance their potential to infect humans as well as their potential to spread from human to human.
6/12/2008
Scientists Develop Experimental Vaccine for Avian Flu
Scientists are reporting in this week's New England Journal of Medicine that they have made an experimental vaccine against pandemic avian flu that is not only potent, but one that can be stockpiled quickly. The drug is created using the cells of monkeys instead of chicken eggs. VOA's Jessica Berman explains.
Feed News
6/13/2008
USDA Analysis Understates Impact of Ethanol Boom On Food Prices, Economist Says
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer is leaning on a weak reed in claiming that the ethanol boom is responsible for only a tiny fraction of the dramatic increase in world food prices, according to an independent agricultural economist.
6/13/2008
NCC Helps Launch Campaign To Reform Food-To-Fuel Policies
Today, the Food Before Fuel Campaign – a partnership of more than 20 environmental, retail, hunger, Hispanic and food industry groups – launched a cooperative effort urging Congress to revisit the nation's food-to-fuel policies, a key factor in the growing global food crisis.
6/20/2008
The high cost of flooded corn to soak consumers Corn syrup, livestock feed prices up as well
Forget about the misery rising crude oil prices is causing. Surging corn prices are beginning to spread their own ripples through the economy - and prices could go higher because the recent floods have been the worst in the Mid-western farmlands since 1993.
Industry News
6/23/2008
S&P may downgrade Tyson, Pilgrim's Pride debt
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Standard & Poor's Ratings Services said it has placed its 'BB-' corporate credit ratings on Dean Foods Co. and Pilgrim's Pride Corp., and its 'BBB-' corporate credit rating on Tyson Foods Inc. on CreditWatch with negative implications.
6/24/2008
Wayne Farms cutting poultry production
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Continually rising input costs have forced poultry processor Wayne Farms LLC to cut production by 6 percent. This follows an additional 2 percent cut in April for the Oakwood, Ga.-based processor.
6/4/2008
Tyson removes 'raised without antibiotics' label
Tyson Foods announces that it will stop labelling its chicken with "raised without antibiotics" labels following "uncertainty and controversy over product labelling regulations and advertising claims".
Other Organizations' News
6/11/2008
USPOULTRY redesigns Web site
(free registration required)
The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association has launched a new Web site, the association announced.
6/2/2008
Nominate POULTRY's Industry Innovator
(free registration required)
Each year, POULTRY magazine recognizes an "Industry Innovator" — a poultry processor whose products, processes or overall approach to marketing or management have improved not only its own bottom line, but raised the standard of excellence for the entire poultry industry.
Feed News
5/20/2008
U.S.D.A. examines food prices, biofuels not to blame
WASHINGTON— The U.S. Department of Agriculture on May 20 released an economic analysis showing higher energy prices, increased worldwide demand and the weather are the primary factors contributing to higher food prices, not biofuels.
5/15/2008
Corn Prices Rise, Pitting Chickens Against Ethanol
Taking corn from the mouths of chickens to put into the gas tanks of U.S. cars and trucks is causing feathers to fly in Washington.
Government News
5/27/2008
A.P.H.I.S. issues final rule on E.N.D. quarantine regs
WASHINGTON ― A final rule that changes the Exotic Newcastle disease (END) domestic quarantine regulations was issued on May 23 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Industry News
5/16/2008
Pilgrim's Pride CEO looks to industry to continue production cutbacks
(free registration required)
Pilgrim's Pride Corp. President and CEO Clint Rivers hopes to see the chicken industry continue to cut production to help the industry return to profitability.
5/9/2008
Poultry breeding companies join forces on genomics program
Aviagen, Hy-Line International and Lohmann Tierzucht have committed to a combined initiative to evaluate and implement a new genetic technology—Genome Wide Selection—in their respective breeding programs
5/5/2008
Court Orders Tyson to Pluck its 'No Antibiotics' Campaign
Egged on by competitors, a federal appeals court has given Tyson Foods 14 days to remove advertising that claims its chickens are safer to eat because they are "raised without antibiotics."
5/9/2008
Chicken prices to rise in the US
Food inflation is expected in the US as prices of chicken and pork will go up over the next couple of months, Associated Press reports.
Other Organizations' News
5/9/2008
U.S. Poultry Industry Urges Transatlantic Economic Council To Promptly Resolve U.S. Poultry Trade Issues With the EU
Failure to resolve the U.S. poultry trade issue at the mid-May 2008 Transatlantic Economic Council (TEC) meeting will once again demonstrate that the European Union is seeking a scientific impossibility; that is, demanding conclusive evidence that there is an absolute-zero risk to food safety and the environment with respect to U.S. poultry. No scientific study on any issue has ever been able to prove an absolute-zero risk.
Poultry News
5/7/2008
EU will probably lift U.S. poultry ban - Verheugen
LJUBLJANA, May 6 (Reuters) - The European Union will probably lift its 11-year-old ban on imports of U.S. poultry, Enterprise and Industry Commissioner Guenter Verheugen said on Tuesday.
5/15/2008
EU executive to propose lifting ban on US poultry
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Commission will seek to lift a ban on imports of U.S. poultry by October, officials said on Tuesday, trying to end a decade-long dispute that has been an irritant for transatlantic trade ties.
Avian Influenza News
4/14/2008
Examining the avian flu: From pandemic planning to vaccine development
The journal Respirology has launched a special supplementary issue on the avian influenza. Published by Wiley-Blackwell, the collection of papers present an inclusive insight into the threat of the avian influenza pandemic by addressing a wide range of topics including the basic biology of the virus, updates on laboratory diagnosis and influenza anti-viral, treatment options, and pandemic planning.
4/14/2008
Scientists find 'likely' human-human H5N1 spread
[BEIJING] A new study by Chinese scientists suggests a highly possible human-to-human transmission of H5N1 bird flu virus.
Government News
4/25/2008
FSIS embraces podcasting
(free registration required)
USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service has a new way to reach out: It has launched a series of educational podcasts designed to address food safety and education issues.
Industry News
4/29/2008
The price of poultry in 10 years
Recent headlines worldwide have highlighted the global food crisis and how people are struggling more and more to pay for basic food products. The poultry industry has been hit hard.
4/23/2008
Court bars Tyson from using RWA phrasing
(free registration required)
Tyson has lost Round One in its battle to advertise its chicken as "raised without antibiotics" or "raised without antibiotics that impact antibiotic resistance in humans."
4/14/2008
Pilgrim's Pride cutting production
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In its latest move to combat record feed costs, Pilgrim's Pride Corp., the nation's largest chicken processor, on Monday announced that it will reduce weekly chicken processing by about 5 percent.
4/14/2008
US poultry processors cut production
Due to rising feed costs and weak domestic market, Simmons Foods poultry processor will cut chicken production by 6% as of this month.
4/14/2008
Antibiotic-free marketing case goes forward
BALTIMORE, MD. — A federal judge denied a motion to dismiss a case against Tyson Foods Inc. regarding advertising claims about antibiotics in its chicken products. U.S. District Judge Richard Bennett also said he will decide in seven days on a motion for a preliminary injunction sought by competing poultry producers Perdue Foods Inc. and Sanderson Farms Inc. to stop the advertisements.
4/14/2008
Cagle's cuts poultry production
Eat more chicken -- and plenty of it.
That's what Cagle's Inc., an Atlanta-based chicken processor, is hoping hungry consumers will do, so the company can get its expenses in line and improve financially.
Other Organizations' News
4/25/2008
News From the American Egg Board
Poultry News
4/25/2008
5 Farms Named Nation’s Best Stewards
Conservation of resources and preservation of the land have always been the hallmarks of a good farmer. Five of the USA's best poultry growers were recognized recently for their outstanding environmental stewardship by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association. Each of these growers has combined raising poultry with other farming enterprises in ways that conserve resources and protect and improve their land.
4/14/2008
Chillin’ Chickens--
Which Method Works Best?
Chicken processing is big business with almost 9 billion broiler chickens being produced in the United States last year. Processing birds efficiently and economically is the name of the game. And researching ways to convert poultry into food that is safe for human consumption is what Agricultural Research Service food scientists strive to achieve.
4/22/2008
The brown adipocyte differentiation pathway in birds: an evolutionary road not taken
Thermogenic brown adipose tissue has never been described in birds and other non-mammalian vertebrates. Brown adipocytes in mammals are distinguished from the more common white fat adipocytes by having numerous small lipid droplets rather than a single large one, elevated numbers of mitochondria, and mitochondrial expression of the nuclear gene UCP1, the uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation responsible for non-shivering thermogenesis.
Avian Influenza News
3/26/2008
Chip launched to detect bird flu
A portable chip to detect influenza viruses, including bird flu in humans, has been developed by Europe 's top semiconductor maker, STMicroelectronics.
3/26/2008
Chickens not behind H5N1 outbreaks in Asia
ROME ― Ducks, people and rice paddies ― not chickens ― are the factors leading to outbreaks of the H5N1 strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Thailand and Viet Nam, and are probably behind outbreak persistence in other countries of the region such as Cambodia and Lao PDR.
3/12/2008
Scientists discover new key to flu transmission
CHICAGO - Flu viruses must be able to pick a very specific type of lock before entering human respiratory cells, U.S. researchers said on Sunday, offering a new understanding of how flu viruses work.
Government News
3/4/2008
USDA to focus on poultry handling
The USDA will implement a series of interim actions to verify and analyse humane handling activities in all federally inspected establishments, and will focus efforts on plants that handle animals most prone to stress.
Industry News
3/26/2008
Pilgrim's Pride names new COO, restructures management
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Pittsburg, Texas-based Pilgrim's Pride Corp. on Wednesday named Robert A. Wright chief operating officer.
3/12/2008
Pilgrim's Pride exits turkey business
(free registration required)
Pittsburg, Texas-based chicken company Pilgrim's Pride Corp. on Monday announced the sale of its turkey production facility and distribution center in New Oxford, Pa., to New Oxford Foods LLC, a subsidiary of Hain Pure Protein Corp., Melville, N.Y.
Other Organizations' News
3/28/2008
Intensive Poultry Production is Better for Global Warming
In contrast to the assertions of some environmentalists, British scientists have proven that intensive, indoor poultry production has a much smaller impact on global warming than organic or free-range production. Additionally, poultry production proves to be more environmentally efficient than any other source of meat production. See the article from "World Poultry" magazine.
3/28/2008
News from AEB
Poultry News
3/30/2008
Extension granted in poultry watershed case
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A federal magistrate has given Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson's office a 45-day extension to submit expert reports in its lawsuit, which alleges that poultry companies are contaminating the Illinois River watershed, the Associated Press reported.
3/31/2008
Darwin Was Wrong About the Wild Origin of the Chicken
Charles Darwin maintained that the domesticated chicken derives from the red jungle fowl, but new research from Uppsala University now shows that the wild origins of the chicken are more complicated than that.
3/12/2008
Rare chicken egg to be sold on eBay
It has always been said that a chicken egg was nature's most perfect food. However, the most unusual, rare egg has recently been discovered. So rare that it will soon be up for sale on eBay!
3/26/2008
Americans grilling poultry meat to become healthier
Americans are among other nations that are adopting a healthier way of eating. As such, a study has recently shown that grilling meat products is becoming popular.
3/18/2008
Air chilling poultry carcasses, the new trend
It has been reported that air-chilling is a new label to look out for when purchasing chicken meat. According to some producers, this method has many advantages!
3/24/2008
PSA says Bush budget would close two labs, damage poultry research
(free registration required)
President George W. Bush's proposed fiscal year 2009 federal budget would eliminate two U.S. Department of Agriculture laboratories that play a vital role in poultry and biomedical research and provide invaluable services to poultry and related industries, according to the Poultry Science Association.
3/24/2008
Flies and Salmonella: dangerous duo in poultry houses
Flies may be more than a mere nuisance in poultry houses. They may also spread food poisoning bacteria such as Salmonella enteritidis to chickens and their eggs, the USDA ARS reports.
University News
3/24/2008
PSU Poultry Science Club Wins National Award
UNIVERSITY PARK -- For the third consecutive year, Penn State's Poultry Science Club was named national Club of the Year at the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association's 2008 International Poultry Exposition, held recently in Atlanta, Ga.
3/7/2008
Texas A&M names new poultry science department head
(free registration required)
Texas A&M University has appointed Dr. John Carey head of the College Station, Texas-based university's poultry science department.
Avian Influenza News
2/18/2008
CAST releases two new publications on AI vaccination
CAST has released new publications, a Special Publication and a Commentary focusing on H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza that discuss the science and the art of controling AI
2/6/2008
New vaccine against H5N1 bird flu
A vaccine against the H5N1 bird flu virus has been tested by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Vaccine Research. The vaccine has shown promising results.
Government News
2/7/2008
USDA to name poultry plants with Salmonella problems
Feb 6, 2008 (CIDRAP News) – The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) says it is preparing to begin publishing the names of poultry and meat plants that have trouble controlling Salmonella, as the agency extends a set of policy changes designed to reduce the prevalence of the pathogen in meat.
2/4/2008
Genetic Fix for Sick Chicks
Genetic research is for the birds—and it's a good thing, too, as scientists with the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) are using their knowledge of avian genetics to improve the health of U.S. poultry. Genetic information is leading to better vaccines and breeding techniques to protect poultry against health threats such as exotic Newcastle, avian influenza, Marek's disease, coccidiosis, and mycoplasmosis.
2/6/2008
USDA budget proposes new fees for processing plants
(free registration required)
The Agriculture Department plans to ask lawmakers to approve $96 million in new fees charged to federally inspected meat and poultry processing plants, the agency said in 2009 budget documents
Industry News
2/15/2008
Aviagen’s Ross EPI now largest single stage PS hatchery
Feb. 13, 2008, Netherlands - To accommodate its plans for further expansion, Parent Stock hatchery Ross EPI, part of the Aviagen Group, has completed a comprehensive refurbishment of its Dutch hatchery operations, working with single stage hatchery specialists Pas Reform. Situated in Roermond, Ross EPI’s Dutch hatchery has been refurbished with the latest in single stage equipment and technologies. The new installation includes a full single stage Smart incubation system, comprising SmartSet™ setters and SmartHatch™ hatchers, combined with a SmartDrive™ incubator control system, to accommodate the management of individual conditions per egg type and SmartCenter™, Pas Reform’s powerful hatchery management information system.
2/15/2008
Tyson to buy Brazilian poultry operations
In March, Tyson Foods Inc. will be finalising 100% acquisition of the privately held Pena Branca's poultry operations, confirmed the Brazilian chicken company's director.
2/22/2008
U.S. poultry exports set record in '07
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Exports of U.S. poultry, eggs and related products surpassed $4 billion for the first time in 2007, according to the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council.
Other Organizations' News
2/1/2008
News from AEB
2/29/2008
News from AEB
2/6/2008
USPOULTRY honors poultry scientist
(free registration required)
Wallace Morgan was recently awarded the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association's Lamplighter Award.
2/15/2008
Chicken Industry Emphasizes Worker Safety
The chicken industry is playing a responsible leadership role in improving worker safety in its workplaces and reducing the incidence of injuries and health problems such as conditions associated with repetitive motion.
Poultry News
2/6/2008
Avian Origins: New Analysis Confirms Ancient Beginnings
ScienceDaily (Feb. 5, 2008) — Did modern birds originate around the time of the dinosaurs' demise, or have they been around far longer?
2/4/2008
Poultry industry has global opportunities
ATLANTA — Trends indicate continuing growth in demand worldwide for poultry products, yet the U.S. industry also faces strong challenges domestically related to the cost of feed, environmental issues, and consumer demands, according to a research analyst who specializes in agribusiness.
2/27/2008
Salmonella notice comment period set to close despite industry protests
(free registration required)
The comment period for USDA's proposed salmonella initiative is set to close today, despite extension requests from industry members and trade associations.
2/29/2008
Mining Manure for Phosphorus
Underground phosphorus deposits around the world are mined for use as a much-valued fertilizer. Now Agricultural Research Service (ARS) soil scientists Ariel Szogi, Matias Vanotti and Patrick Hunt have found a way to “mine” the phosphorus in poultry manure.
2/29/2008
Poultry officials meet to discuss Salmonella sampling
ATLANTA ― More than 100 poultry industry leaders met in Atlanta on Feb. 19 for a meeting organized by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association to discuss the recent Food Safety and Inspection Service Federal Register notice on the Salmonella Verification Sampling Program.
2/15/2008
New discovery, scientists take fresh look at poultry disease
Poultry scientists are taking a fresh look at the devastating poultry bacterial disease, necrotic enteritis, following a world-first discovery.
2/20/2008
Probiotics to fight Salmonella in poultry
Salmonella in poultry can be reduced by using probiotics. This development offers a way that makes it easy on poultry growers and enhances food safety.
Avian Influenza News
1/25/2008
Don't rely on drugs to delay flu pandemic
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Vaccines and drugs will not be enough to slow or prevent a pandemic of influenza, according to a U.S. government report released on Tuesday.
1/25/2008
WHO launches bird flu virus tracker after facing protests over transparency
A new World Health Organization system designed to allow countries to track the H5N1 influenza viruses they have provided to international laboratories was launched Tuesday.
1/7/2008
MIT finds key to avian flu in humans
CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--MIT researchers have uncovered a critical difference between flu viruses that infect birds and humans, a discovery that could help scientists monitor the evolution of avian flu strains and aid in the development of vaccines against a deadly flu pandemic.
Government News
1/7/2008
U.S.D.A. to host poultry improvement plan meeting
WASHINGTON ― The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will hold a meeting of the general conference committee of the national poultry improvement plan (N.P.I.P.) from 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Jan. 23, 2008. The meeting will take place at the Georgia World Congress Center, Room C-206, 285 Andrew Young International Boulevard, N.W., Atlanta, Ga. The general conference committee serves as the liaison between the poultry industry and the U.S.D.A. in matters pertaining to poultry health. In addition, the committee assists the U.S.D.A. in planning, organizing and conducting the N.P.I.P. biennial conference.
1/3/2008
USDA Poultry Slaughter: Ready-to-Cook Weight Up 3% From Last Year
Poultry certified wholesome during November 2007 (ready-to-cook weight) totaled 3.57 billion pounds, up 3 percent from the amount certified in
November 2006. The October 2007 revised certified total at 4.00 billion pounds, was up 6 percent from October 2006. The October revision represented an increase of 7.96 million pounds from last month's preliminary pounds certified.
1/21/2008
Broiler production, average liveweight up: USDA
The amount of chicks placed in the fourth quarter of 2007 increased about 4 percent over the prior year, according to the Department of Agriculture's Livestock, Dairy & Poultry Outlook.
1/21/2008
National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection to Hold Public Meeting
The National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection (NACMPI) will hold public meetings on Feb. 5 and 6 to address the planned public health-based slaughter inspection system for young chickens, and how a similar approach could be used for inspection in processing and other slaughter establishments.
1/21/2008
FDA Clears for Marketing Real-Time Test for Respiratory Viruses
Molecular biology device detects four viruses, including influenza; results available in about 3 hours
Industry News
1/9/2008
Leaders in poultry – Cobb Vantress and Hendrix Genetics – form alliance
In a press release today, Cobb-Vantress and Hendrix Genetics have announced that they will form an alliance to strengthen Cobb’s leading position in the broiler breeding industry and Hendrix’ leading positions in egglayer, turkey and swine genetics and to enable the two to explore other joint venture opportunities.
1/25/2008
Blame it on the grain: Analyst drops poultry processor earnings forecasts
(free registration required)
Shares of three major poultry processors took a ride yesterday after a J.P. Morgan equity analyst cut his first quarter and full year earnings forecasts
1/30/2008
Pilgrim's Pride implementing automation initiatives
(free registration required)
Pilgrim's Pride Corp. already has installed automatic deboning equipment in two plants and has plans to add more at other facilities throughout the year, Chief Operating Officer J. Clinton Rivers told analysts during the company's first-quarter earnings conference call on Tuesday.
Other Organizations' News
1/21/2008
Atlanta Celebrates Long-term Convention Success
ATLANTA, US – In the past five years, the International Poultry Expo (IPE) has brought nearly 94,000 attendees and $100 million in economic impact to Atlanta, Georgia in the USA.
Poultry News
1/3/2008
U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary to Speak at IPE / IFE 2008
ATLANTA - The 2008 International Poultry Expo and International Feed Expo will feature a presentation from U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez.
1/7/2008
US: Maryland poultry farms to be policed
Maryland State Administration is proposing regulations that would for the first time allow the state's environmental agency to police pollution from the Eastern Shore's huge poultry industry.
Avian Influenza News
12/28/2007
New Swine Flu Has Avian Flu Genes
Researchers have identified a new strain of swine influenza—H2N3—which belongs to the group of H2 influenza viruses that last infected humans during the 1957 pandemic. This new strain has a molecular twist: It is composed of avian and swine influenza genes.
Government News
12/7/2007
USDA Offers Food Safety Tips For Mailing Food Gifts This Holiday Season
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) understands that many Americans enjoy cooking foods that are family favorites and mailing these items to family and friends. Others choose to order food from catalogs, over the Internet or by phone. So the gift is in the mail, but is it safe?
12/18/2007
U.S.D.A. and partners racking up N.A.I.S. success
WASHINGTON ― As part of the National Animal Identification System’s registration campaign, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture has 429,600 premises registered nationwide. During the month of December, Nebraska became the tenth state to register at least 50% of its total estimated production agriculture premises under this system.
12/21/2007
USDA Wants Chicken Farmers In Ark., Elsewhere To Take Precautions
The U.S. Department of Agriculture wants not only big poultry producers like Tyson Foods but also the small farmers and hobbyists to guard against the spread of disease among flocks.
Industry News
12/21/2007
Lonnie Pilgrim to interim president at Pilgrim's Pride
DALLAS — The board of directors of Pilgrim's Pride Corp. elected chairman Lonnie Ken Pilgrim as interim president following the death of chief executive O.B. Goolsby Jr. earlier this week
12/28/2007
Tyson, USDA agree on chicken labeling
(free registration required)
Springdale, Ark.-based Tyson Foods Inc. on Thursday said the company and USDA have agreed to change the wording in its "raised without antibiotics" chicken program.
12/18/2007
Pilgrim's Pride Corporation Mourns Death of President and Chief Executive Officer O.B. Goolsby Jr.
PITTSBURG, Texas, Dec. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Pilgrim's Pride Corporation announced that O.B. Goolsby Jr., president and chief executive officer, today passed away after suffering a massive stroke last Saturday while on a hunting trip in south Texas. Mr. Goolsby was 60 years old.
Other Organizations' News
12/3/2007
IPE educational sessions to feature FSIS administrator, chefs and more
(free registration required)
At the 2008 International Poultry Expo in Atlanta, POULTRY magazine, along with its sister publications Plate magazine and CarneTec.com, will present a variety of educational seminars on topics from food safety to menu trends.
Poultry News
12/21/2007
FSIS administrator to address IPE attendees
(free registration required)
At this year's International Poultry Expo, USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service Administrator Alfred Alamanza will address attendees in a presentation presented by POULTRY magazine.
12/28/2007
Poultry Groups Welcome Release From Needless, Burdensome Paperwork Requirements on Family Farmers and First Responders
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 --
This is a joint statement by the National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation, and U.S. Poultry & Egg Association on today's announcement from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
University News
12/11/2007
Tenure Track Faculty Position – Broiler Nutrition
Avian Influenza News
11/7/2007
Avian Influenza Vaccinations: A Commentary Focusing on H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza
(CAST Commentary), that discuss the science of avian influenza vaccination and the art of controlling avian influenza.
A Special Report (Avian Influenza Vaccines: Focusing on H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI), with a Comprehensive Bibliography) also offers an analysis of previous AI vaccine campaigns. Link can be found at http://www.cast-science.org/ [Paid subscription for the special report]
11/26/2007
BirdFlu2008: Avian Influenza and Human Health conference, UK
Registration for the first international conference on avian influenza - BirdFlu2008: Avian Influenza and Human Health - at Oxford (UK) is now open.
11/26/2007
Study says wild birds unlikely to bring H5N1 to Americas
(CIDRAP News) – An analysis of influenza viruses collected from North American migratory birds over a 6-year period suggests that wild birds rarely carry avian flu viruses between Eurasia and North America, implying that the risk of the deadly H5N1 virus reaching the Americas by that route is probably low.
Government News
11/12/2007
New USDA poultry programs official named
(free registration required)
The Agriculture Department's Agricultural Marketing Service has named Erin Morris associate deputy administrator for poultry programs, effective Nov. 13.
Industry News
11/26/2007
Food Outlook Global Market Analysis - Poultry Meat
By FAO. Rebounding demand together with tight supplies and rising production costs sustain meat prices in 2007
Other Organizations' News
11/27/2007
USPOULTRY names new institute VP
(free registration required)
The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association has named Paul Pressley vice president of the Poultry & Egg Institute.
11/9/2007
San Antonio To Host Next National Chicken Cooking Contest; New Structure Announced
San Antonio, Texas, will be the site of the 48th National Chicken Cooking Contest (NCCC), newly revised by the National Chicken Council, sponsor of the Contest, to allow more contestants to win cash prizes for their favorite chicken recipes. The Cook-Off will take place on May 2, 2009 at the Center for Foods of the Americas, a branch of the Culinary Institute of America located in San Antonio.
11/2/2007
NCC Sees Little Impact from Rule Allowing Chile To Export Poultry And Poultry Products To The United States
The U.S. chicken industry expects no more than minimal impact from the action of the U.S. government in allowing Chile to ship poultry and poultry products to the United States. USDA estimates that Chilean exports to the U.S. will amount to no more than 12,000 metric tons of boneless breast meat, which is less than one percent of U.S. production of boneless breast meat. Whether Chile will actually be able to sell even that much in this country remains to be seen, the National Chicken Council said.
11/2/2007
Choose Chicken for a Weight Control Diet
The National Chicken Council continues to support the advice given by the U.S. government, doctors, nutritionists and dietitians for many years: chicken, turkey, fish, and lean meat can anchor a diet low in fat to control body weight and maintain good health.
11/6/2007
USPOULTRY names new president
(free registration required)
The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association board of directors has selected John Starkey to become the association's new president, effective Dec. 1.
11/30/2007
NTF Chairman Celebrates 60th Anniversary of Presenting the U.S. President with the National Thanksgiving Turkey
President George W. Bush today “pardoned” the National Thanksgiving Turkey in a White House Ceremony, as he and National Turkey Federation (NTF) Chairman Ted Seger celebrated the 60th anniversary of the first modern National Thanksgiving Turkey presentation
11/30/2007
News from American Egg Board
Poultry News
11/30/2007
FACT SHEET: Terms & Labels
Turkey Terms and Labels Describing Various Production Methods
11/26/2007
Poultry groups sign workplace-safety agreement with OSHA
(free registration required)
Under terms of an agreement signed Thursday, companies in the chicken and turkey industries will work together with the U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety & Health Administration to implement a new alliance on worker safety, especially concerning machinery hazards, the National Chicken Council and National Turkey Federation jointly announced.
University News
11/7/2007
Mississippi State University names new head of poultry program
(free registration required)
Mississippi State University announced that Michael T. Kidd has assumed duties as head of the school's department of poultry science.
11/7/2007
CORRECTION- The article pertaining to the late Dr Thaxton mistakenly uses the first name of John instead of James
Avian Influenza News
10/4/2007
Tamiflu survives sewage treatment
UMEA, Sweden, Oct. 3 (UPI) -- Swedish researchers say oseltamivir in Tamiflu, used to prevent influenza, is not degraded in sewage treatment, which might make it less effective.
10/10/2007
Influenza: Insights Into Cell Specificity Of Human Vs. Avian Viruses
Science Daily — Researchers have identified which sites and cell types within the respiratory tract are targeted by human versus avian influenza viruses, providing valuable insights into the pathogenesis of these divergent diseases.
10/12/2007
Avian Flu -- 1918 and Today -- Protein Enhances Lethality Of Virus
Science Daily — Often called the most devastating epidemic in the recorded history of the world, the 1918 influenza virus pandemic was responsible for more than 40 million deaths across the globe. The incredible lethality of the 1918 flu strain is not well understood, despite having been under intense scrutiny for many years. Now, a new study published by Cell Press in the October issue of the journal Cell Host & Microbe unravels some of the mystery surrounding the devastating 1918 pandemic and provides key information that will help prepare for future pandemics.
10/17/2007
Structure Of Influenza B Virus Protein Gives Clues To Next Pandemic
Science Daily — Determining the structure of a protein called hemagglutinin on the surface of influenza B is giving researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Rice University in Houston clues as to what kinds of mutations could spark the next flu pandemic.
Government News
10/4/2007
USDA likely to publish salmonella instances online
(free registration required)
Arlington, Va. — USDA will likely publish the salmonella statuses of poultry plants online, Acting Agriculture Secretary Chuck Conner told the National Chicken Council annual conference here Thursday.
10/31/2007
FSIS Final Rule Allows Chile to Export Poultry and Poultry Products to the U.S.
WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2007 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) today announced that the country of Chile will be allowed to export poultry and poultry products, processed in certified establishments within Chile, to the United States effective December 3, 2007.
Industry News
10/11/2007
Tyson restructuring management, poultry group head resigns
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Springdale, Ark.-based Tyson Foods Inc. on Wednesday announced 25-year Tyson veteran and Senior Group Vice President of Poultry and Prepared Foods Bill Lovette has resigned.
10/5/2007
Tyson Foods receives POULTRY's Industry Innovator award
(free registration required)
Arlington, Va. — Tyson Foods Inc., the nation's largest protein processor, was honored by POULTRY magazine here Thursday for its outstanding commitment to new product development through combining culinary arts and food science.
10/22/2007
Poultry industry safety record best ever: report
(free registration required)
The rate at which injuries and illnesses occur among poultry processing workers in the United States has reached its lowest level ever and is below the rate found in food manufacturing in general, according to newly published data from the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Other Organizations' News
10/19/2007
Lonnie "Bo" Pilgrim Named Honorary Life Member of NCC Board of Directors
Lonnie "Bo" Pilgrim, senior chairman of Pilgrim´s Pride Corporation, was elected an Honorary Life Member of the National Chicken Council Board of Directors at the board meeting held in conjunction with the recent NCC Annual Lonnie Conference, as a tribute to his many years of service to the industry and to NCC.
10/19/2007
News from AEB
10/12/2007
THANKSGIVING WINE WISDOM AT www.EatTurkey.com
National Turkey Federation (NTF) is making Thanksgiving preparation less complicated with a consumer guide to preparing a perfect holiday turkey and selecting wines to accompany the meal at its Web site, www.EatTurkey.com. Whether a “first-timer” or one who has prepared countless Thanksgiving meals, a little extra assistance is always welcome.
10/5/2007
Welch Named Chairman of National Chicken Council; Roberts is Vice Chairman; Goolsby Named Secretary-Treasurer
Mike Welch, president and chief executive officer of Harrison Poultry, Bethlehem, Georgia, was installed today as Chairman of the National Chicken Council, the trade association for the chicken production and processing industry. Michael Roberts, president of the Food Products Group of Perdue Farms, Inc., Salisbury, Maryland, took office as Vice Chairman, and O.B. Goolsby, Jr., president and chief executive officer of Pilgrim´s Pride Corporation, Pittsburg, Texas, became Secretary-Treasurer.
10/5/2007
New Members Elected to National Chicken Council Executive Committee and Board of Directors
New elected members of the National Chicken Council’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors were announced at the trade association’s Annual Conference here today.
10/1/2007
National Turkey Federation Web site honored
(free registration required)
The National Turkey Federation (NTF) was recognized by the Web Marketing Association in the 2007 International Web Award competition for the creation and development of its Web site, EatTurkey.com.
10/25/2007
USPOULTRY announces new educational initiative
(free registration required)
The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association has formed The Poultry & Egg Institute, a new initiative within the association.
Poultry News
10/26/2007
Poultry industry faces drought challenge
Top executives of the Georgia Poultry Federation met privately Wednesday with representatives of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division to discuss with the city of Gainesville the possible impact of a 10 percent reduction in water use announced Tuesday by Gov. Sonny Perdue.
10/11/2007
Ethanol: Is the boom busting?
And what happens to feed costs if it is?
(free registration required)
Two words usually follow "boom" – "town" or "bust." In the case of the ethanol boom, which has brought grief to meat and poultry producers and processors in the form of skyrocketing feed grain prices, an evident bust in ethanol prices may be good news indeed. Or not.
10/9/2007
Polyclonal antibodies developed in transgenic chickens
Origen Therapeutics in the US has been awarded a $2m (€1.4m) three-year grant from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop human polyclonal antibodies by creating genetically modified chickens.
10/15/2007
Poultry manure power plant in operation
Apparently approx. 100 semi-truck loads of turkey manure per day provides enough fuel to power 40,000 homes in Minnesota at the nation's first turkey litter fired power plant.
10/17/2007
Electricity from poultry fat for Texas
Renewables Corp. has announced that it has begun supplying fuel for the nation's first 100% biodiesel powered electricity generating turbine plant in Conroe, Texas.
University News
10/24/2007
Admired professor dies of cancer
James Paul Thaxton Jr., a professor of poultry science at Mississippi State, died Wednesday at his home after losing a battle to cancer.
Avian Influenza News
9/4/2007
Scientists Not Sure Whether Wild Birds Are Carrying Avian Influenza Virus
Researchers say studies do not confirm whether wild birds are carriers of the H5N1 bird flu virus. VOA's Luis Ramirez reports from Bangkok, where experts are gathering this week to figure out better ways to track how the disease is spreading.
9/25/2007
Detecting Bird Flu: New Lab-on-chip Identifies H5N1 In Thirty Minutes
Science Daily — Researchers have successfully developed a miniaturized device that can be used to detect the highly pathogenic avian flu (H5N1) virus.
Government News
9/25/2007
FSIS releases directive on post-mortem livestock inspection
(free registration required)
The Food and Safety Inspection Service has released a new directive on post-mortem livestock inspection.
9/19/2007
U.S.D.A. launches food safety web site
(free registration required)
WASHINGTON � The Agricultural Research Service (A.R.S.) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture has launched a web portal featuring predictive microbiology modeling software designed to assist food processors in their food safety decision-making process.
9/5/2007
KNIGHT ANNOUNCES CINDY SMITH AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE
WASHINGTON, Sept. 5, 2007—Bruce Knight, undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs, today announced the appointment of Cindy J. Smith as administrator of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Industry News
9/6/2007
Tyson Foods named POULTRY magazine's 2007 Industry Innovator Award winner
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Tyson Foods Inc. has been selected to receive POULTRY magazine's 2007 Industry Innovator Award, which honors excellence in the U.S. poultry industry in the areas of innovation, business success, leadership and industry contributions.
Other Organizations' News
9/21/2007
NCC Comment on Immigration Enforcement Announcement
"The nation's chicken companies are committed to full compliance with applicable federal employment laws, and they work hard to verify an applicant’s eligibility to work. Companies must also be careful to avoid unlawful discrimination. The regulation mentioned today was published in draft form over a year ago and therefore comes as no surprise. Companies will continue to fulfill their obligations under the law."
9/21/2007
News from AEB
September 17, 2007
Poultry News
9/28/2007
Checking Poultry Genes For Disease
US - Research funded by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association studied the functional genomic and DNA microarray approach to identify key innate immunity genes as a novel selection method to identify chickens with increased resistance to disease.
9/10/2007
Bacteria Inside Red Mites Could Be Targeted To Control Poultry Pests
Science Daily — Bacteria which live symbiotically inside the blood-sucking pests called red poultry mites could be a new and effective target to prevent the spread of Salmonella and similar pathogens in chickens, turkeys and other table birds, according to scientists.*
9/14/2007
Ample supply of turkeys this Thanksgiving
9/14/2007
U.S. Poultry : Broiler production is expected to grow by an average of 1.6% annually from 2007to2016
Lower chicken prices in the first half of 2006 led to a decline in production relative to a year ago for the final two quarters of 2006, a rarity for the industry. Though output prices have recovered, producers are showing caution in the face of higher feed costs, limiting production growth in 2007. Broiler production is expected to grow by an average of 1.6% annually from 2007 to 2016, relative to 3.1% growth from 1997 to 2006.
9/14/2007
USDA reduces forecast of corn use for ethanol
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USDA cut its forecast of how much U.S. corn will be used for ethanol production in the marketing year that began Sept. 1, 2007 to 3.3 billion bushels from last month's forecast of 3.4 billion bushels.
9/5/2007
Is the US poultry industry coping in heat wave?
Extremely high temperatures have embraced much of the US, particularly in the south. These searing temperatures are proving to have serious consequences. How is the country's poultry industry managing?
9/4/2007
Next in biofuels: Poultry power
Poultry poop is a serious ecological problem in Virginia. So is the burning of fossil fuels.
Avian Influenza News
8/31/2007
The North American plan for avian and pandemic influenza
The Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America has published a new pandemic planning document, ‘The North American plan for avian and pandemic influenza.
8/13/2007
Scientists Target Future Pandemic Strains Of H5N1 Avian Influenza
Science Daily — Preparing vaccines and therapeutics that target a future mutant strain of H5N1 influenza virus sounds like science fiction, but it may be possible, according to a team of scientists at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and a collaborator at Emory University School of Medicine. Success hinges on anticipating and predicting the crucial mutations that would help the virus spread easily from person to person.
8/4/2007
State vet lifts some restrictions on movement of poultry litter
During routine testing of poultry flocks prior to slaughter, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services determined July 6 that a turkey flock in Shenandoah County tested suspicious for antibodies of low pathogenic avian influenza, a finding which was confirmed by the USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa. In response to that discovery, State Veterinarian Richard Wilkes canceled all shows, sales and exhibitions of live poultry statewide and placed restrictions on the movement of poultry litter in a 17-county area in the Shenandoah Valley through July 30, 2007.
8/4/2007
USDA develops teaching resource "understanding avian influenza"
Educators nationwide now have an additional information resource for teaching high school biology students about avian influenza, specifically highly pathogenic H5N1. The Understanding Avian Influenza lesson plan and instructor's guide were offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service May 22. The lesson explains to students the many reasons why they should know about the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus that currently is spreading overseas and what it would mean if it is detected in the United States.
8/4/2007
Scientist doubts efforts to detect avian flu in U.S
ORONO, Maine - A potential avian flu pandemic may have slipped from the headlines, but the threat is still very real. And one leading expert worries that U.S. efforts to detect the deadly avian flu strain may be subpar.
8/8/2007
Cinnamon helps fight against bird flu
Technology has been created whereby cinnamon extract is used as an air disinfectant against bird flu in airports, or as a daily supplement that protects people against the common flu.
Government News
8/4/2007
The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service has scheduled a Public Meeting for August 7, 2007
Food Safety Inspection at Poultry Processing Facilities - The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service has scheduled a Public Meeting for August 7, 2007 in Arlington Virginia " ... to discuss public health based inspection in poultry slaughter to address Campylobacter, Salmonella, and other issues of public health concern. FSIS is seeking public input on the ideas, concepts, data, and analyses it will use to form the basis of a technical plan. The public meeting will afford FSIS and its stakeholders an opportunity to discuss the rationale and process for the Agency's enhanced approach, as well as the background leading up to its current thinking on the concept ..."
8/21/2007
F.S.I.S. launches 'askFSIS'
WASHINGTON — The Food Safety and Inspection Service has launched askFSIS, a new feature of its web site designed to answer technical and policy questions regarding inspection and public health regulations 24 hours a day. The new addition to the agency’s web site is designed to inform a business audience rather than directly focusing on consumers’ concerns.
8/28/2007
New Deputy Administrator of USDA Poultry Programs.
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) today announced the selection of Rex A. Barnes as the new Deputy Administrator of AMS’ Poultry Programs.
Industry News
8/4/2007
Tyson launches Web site to promote chicken raised without antibiotics
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PURAC America Inc
Springdale, Ark.-based Tyson Foods Inc. has launched a new interactive Web site to promote the company's new line of 100 percent All Natural Fresh Chicken Raised Without Antibiotics
Other Organizations' News
8/4/2007
USPOULTRY VP retires
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The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association has announced that Larry Brown, vice president of education programs, will retire in September after 30 years with the Tucker, Ga.-based association.
8/10/2007
News from the AEB
Poultry News
8/13/2007
The new US trend: the cage-free egg
Apparently, the latest trend in the US food world is the cage-free egg.
8/4/2007
More farms find unlikely power source: manure
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An increasing number of U.S. farms are converting manure into electricity and reducing the smell in the process.
8/28/2007
5 ways to avoid foodborne illness at your Labor Day barbecue
8/17/2007
Medicinal plants to treat poultry diseases
Farmers are opening up to the idea of using herbs to treat poultry diseases, and many poultry farmers know just how to do this.
8/21/2007
Poultry litter turned into bio-oil
BLACKSBURG, Va., Aug. 20 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists are developing portable pyrolysis units that can convert poultry litter into bio-oil in a system that addresses biosecurity issues.
Avian Influenza News
7/26/2007
Researchers warn H5N1 reassortment can occur beyond winter months
Jul 25, 2007 (CIDRAP News) – World health experts have been working under a general assumption that a feared reassortment between human and avian influenza viruses—a scenario that could spark a pandemic—might only occur during a short winter interval, but researchers who recently examined virus circulation patterns warn that time frames for coinfection are wider and sometimes unpredictable.
7/27/2007
How Would The Avian Influenza Virus Be Transmitted In Human Households?
Science Daily — Recent outbreaks of emerging diseases such as SARS and H5N1 avian influenza have underlined the fact that animal pathogens may acquire the ability to spread efficiently in humans -- but as yet have not.
7/9/2007
VA Department of Agriculture Comments on Avian Flu Evidence Found in Valley
During routine testing of poultry flocks prior to slaughter, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) determined late Friday, July 6, that a turkey flock in Shenandoah County tested suspicious for antibodies of low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI). Testing over the weekend by the USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa confirmed the presence of avian influenza (A.I.) antibodies, which indicates possible prior exposure to the A.I. H5 virus. So far USDA testing has not identified the actual virus that caused the birds to produce the antibodies.
7/10/2007
W.Va. suspends shows, sales after avian flu found in Va.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- West Virginia's annual poultry festival was canceled Monday after the state was placed under a 30-day order suspending all poultry shows and sales following the discovery of avian influenza in a Virginia turkey flock.
7/10/2007
Positive avian flu test has poultry farmers on alert
A flock of 54,000 turkeys must be destroyed near Mount Jackson, north of Harrisonburg in Shenandoah County. This comes after turkeys at the farm tested positive for a mild strain of the avian flu.
Government News
7/5/2007
New federal animal research facility dedicated in Ames
Federal and state officials today dedicated the new research facility at the National Centers for Animal Health in Ames. The five members of the Iowa congressional delegation who help secure the funding for the project were on hand, including Republican Congressman Tom Latham of Ames.
7/26/2007
Court Upholds Air Emissions Agreements
WASHINGTON,DC - The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) has welcomed a federal court decision to dismiss challenges to the validity of air emissions agreements between the Environmental Protection Agency and livestock and poultry operations.
7/26/2007
EPA Extends Clean Water Deadlines for Animal Feeding Operations
US - To respond properly to citizen comment on a federal court order, EPA today announced a final rule extending certain compliance deadlines from July 31, 2007 to Feb. 27, 2009 for concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs).
7/26/2007
FSIS to discuss possible changes to slaughterhouse inspections
(free registration required)
Among other topics, USDA's Food Safety Inspection Service will discuss potential changes to how it inspects slaughter plants at a public meeting on Aug. 7 in Arlington, Va.
Industry News
7/27/2007
Pilgrim's Pride names new chairman
Pilgrim's Pride Corp. on Thursday announced that Lonnie Ken Pilgrim was elected chairman of the Pittsburg, Texas-based poultry processor, succeeding his father, Lonnie Bo Pilgrim, who was named senior chairman and remains on the company's board.
7/21/2007
Anti-antibiotics
(free registration required)
When the National Chicken Council gathers at Incline Village in Nevada from July 15-17 for the organization’s annual Marketing Conference, the announcement last month by Tyson Foods that it will phase out use of antibiotics in poultry production will likely dominate many a workshop and hallway discussion.
7/21/2007
Koch's Turkey Farm launches natural and organic deli meats
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Tamaqua, Penn.-based Koch's Turkey Farm has launched an all natural and organic turkey deli meats line.
Other Organizations' News
7/21/2007
Nominate POULTRY's Industry Innovator
(free registration required)
Each year, POULTRY Magazine recognizes an "Industry Innovator" — a poultry processor whose products, processes or overall approach to marketing or management have improved not only its own bottom line, but raised the standard of excellence for the entire poultry industry.
Poultry News
7/26/2007
First-of-its-kind IBDV test in poultry
Ohio State University's Center for Diagnostic Assays (CDA) has developed a test for the detection of very virulent infectious bursal disease virus (vvIBDV) in poultry flocks.
7/9/2007
Researcher explores way to burn poultry litter to provide heat source
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — An agricultural engineering researcher at the University of Arkansas said he has found a way to burn poultry litter to heat poultry houses. He said it could be better for the birds, better for the farmers and better for the environment.
Avian Influenza News
6/20/2007
New pocket geography may point toward better avian flu drugs
Amid heightened concern over a possible epidemic of bird flu in humans, scientists in the United States and Taiwan are reporting critical new insights into the architecture of a key enzyme in the H5N1 avian influenza virus that enables the virus to spread.
6/20/2007
Analysis: Bird flu fears reignited
TORONTO, June 19 (UPI) -- While the threat of a bird flu pandemic continues to hang over the world, authorities in the United Kingdom now believe a second strain of avian flu -- previously considered of little human risk -- does indeed pose a real danger to people.
6/29/2007
Experts meet on bird flu threat
Scientists from around the globe are meeting in Aviemore to consider the latest ways of combating the threat of avian flu.
6/4/2007
FDA Finalizes Guidance for Pandemic and Seasonal Influenza Vaccines
ROCKVILLE, MD -- June 1, 2007 -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today issued final recommendations to increase the supply of safe and effective influenza vaccines for both seasonal and pandemic use.
6/4/2007
Human antibodies protect mice from avian flu
VietNamNet Bridge - An international team of scientists have used antibodies derived from immune cells from recent human survivors of H5N1 avian influenza to successfully treat H5N1-infected mice and perhaps lay the building blocks for a potential cure for the virus.
Government News
6/18/2007
USDA gives the boot to certain organic ingredients
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As a result of a new USDA rule, organic products containing certain non-organic minor ingredients are in non-compliance with organic certification — at least for now.
Industry News
6/11/2007
Aviagen supports future research for the poultry industry
Aviagen's sponsored PhD students recently participated in a seminar in Edinburgh where they updated Aviagen’s research, veterinary and technical teams on their research plans and progress.
6/20/2007
With Avian Flu Behind Brazil's Chicken Exports Grow 85%
Brazil exported around US$ 400 million in chicken meat during the month of May, an increase of 84.9% over the same month last year, according to information disclosed in São Paulo yesterday, June 18, by the Brazilian Poultry Exporters Association (Abef).
6/19/2007
Tyson fresh chicken goes antibiotic free
SPRINGDALE, ARK. — Tyson Foods announced many of its fresh chicken products will be marketed under the Tyson brand and prominently feature the phrase "chicken raised without antibiotics" on the label.
6/29/2007
Tyson launches renewable fuels joint venture
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Springdale, Ark.-based Tyson Foods Inc. on Monday announced it will form a joint venture with Tulsa-based synthetic fuels technology company Syntroleum Corp.
Other Organizations' News
6/29/2007
USA Poultry & Egg Export Council elects chairman
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The USA Poultry & Egg Export Council elected Mark Blanchard, executive vice president of New Orleans-based warehousing and cold storage company NOCS, as its chairman of the board for the 2007-2008 year.
6/20/2007
NPG Launches Nature Reports
Nature Publishing Group (NPG) has announced the launch of two new websites- Nature Reports Climate Change and Nature Reports Stem Cells.
6/8/2007
NCC Urges Congress to Restore Balance In Food-Fuel Equation
WASHINGTON -- May 17, 2007 -- Congress should restore the balance between food and fuel in the nation&squo;s energy policy, according to Bill Roenigk, senior vice president and chief economist of the National Chicken Council, commenting on the Iowa State University on biofuels released here today:
6/8/2007
News from AEB
Poultry News
6/11/2007
Chicken of the Sea: Poultry may have reached Americas via Polynesia
Thor Heyerdahl got it backwards. More than 40 years ago, the late explorer proposed that the Inca or their predecessors voyaged from South America to Polynesia by raft. On the contrary, a new study indicates that Polynesian seafarers reached what's now Chile by about 620 years ago. That conclusion hinges on the first evidence of when chickens arrived in the Americas.
6/19/2007
Chicken litter could be 'green'
One day, the truckloads of chicken manure that Donald Johnson spreads on his pasture could instead be turning on the lights in Iredell County.
6/4/2007
Eastern Shore on short list for poultry litter fueled plant
SALISBURY — The company that next month will launch the country’s first poultry-waste-fueled power plant has said the Lower Shore would be an excellent location for its next plant.
6/6/2007
Polynesians linked to poultry population
Prehistoric Polynesians, not European voyagers, may have brought chickens to the Americas, according to new research from The University of Auckland’s Department of Anthropology which has been published in the June 4 edition of journal, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).
6/29/2007
Campylobacter cases in poultry are beginning to fall
According to experts within the poultry industry, measures introduced in 2006 to reduce the level of campylobacter infection on chicken farms and processing plants may be starting to have an impact.
6/29/2007
Safe food practices keep Fourth fun
6/29/2007
European Union tightens up food safety
EUROPE: Almost half of the rapid-alert system notifications in Europe concern imports rejected at EU border.
Avian Influenza News
5/21/2007
Countries succeeding against avian influenza: OIE
FRANCE: Today, most countries overcome avian influenza outbreaks when they occur.
5/30/2007
USDA releases avian influenza education materials
(free registration required)
USDA has introduced Understanding Avian Influenza, a lesson plan for use in schools around the country aimed at helping American young people understand highly pathogenic AI.
5/1/2007
Optaflu influenza vaccine, receives support of European Union approval
Novartis leading the introduction of influenza cell culture manufacturing - the first major innovation in influenza vaccine manufacturing in more than 50 years.
5/2/2007
'Supermap' of avian flu yields new info on source/spread
Scientists here have designed a new, interactive map of the spread of the avian flu virus (H5N1) that for the first time incorporates genetic, geographic and evolutionary information that may help predict where the next outbreak of the virus is likely to occur.
5/10/2007
FDA Approves First U.S. Vaccine for Humans Against the Avian Influenza Virus H5N1
The FDA has recently announced the first approval in the United States of a vaccine for humans against the H5N1 influenza virus, commonly known as avian or bird flu.
5/15/2007
Avian Flu High On World Health Assembly Agenda
The issue of sharing research data on avian influenza is shaping up to be the most controversial and potentially damaging item on this year's agenda of the World Health Assembly. The annual assembly of 193 governments, which opens in Geneva on Monday, will debate ways to tackle a possible bird flu pandemic. Other global health problems will also be under review. Lisa Schlein has more for VOA.
Government News
5/7/2007
USDA NAMES MEMBERS TO NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON MEAT AND POULTRY INSPECTION
WASHINGTON, May 4, 2007 -U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns has named members to the National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection (NACMPI).
5/2/2007
FDA names a food-safety czar
(free registration required)
Facing growing criticism about its ability to protect the nation's food supply, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday it has created the position of assistant commissioner for food protection to advise on "strategic and substantive food-safety and food-defense matters."
5/2/2007
TRANSCRIPT OF FDA/USDA MEDIA TELECONFERENCE PROVIDING AN UPDATE ON ADULTERATED FEED TO POULTRY AND HOGS
5/7/2007
Food safety amendment introduced
UNITED STATES: Senator Edward Kennedy and colleagues introduce bipartisan food safety amendment.
5/30/2007
National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods to Hold Public Meetings
WASHINGTON, May 30, 2007 - The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today that the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF) will hold public meetings June 4 - 8, 2007.
5/30/2007
Ethanol Reshapes the Corn Market
The expanding U.S. ethanol sector is stimulating demand for corn, but alternatives to corn may dampen that demand.
Industry News
5/30/2007
Grills sizzled over Memorial Day weekend
UNITED STATES: Hamburgers and hot dogs topped list of most popular grilling items over Memorial Day weekend.
5/23/2007
Frozen poultry down 24% from 2006, red meat off 2%
WASHINGTON — Total frozen poultry supplies on April 30 were 969 million lbs, down 24% from a year ago, while total red meet in freezers was 957 million lbs, down 2%, the National Agricultural Statistics Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture said.
5/7/2007
FEBRUARY 2007 EGG INDUSTRY STATISTICS
5/10/2007
Tyson Foods' team members fight Childhood Hunger
UNITED STATES: Hunger-relief organizations in more than 50 communities will receive donations
Other Organizations' News
5/7/2007
Thai-inspired recipe wins!
United States: Chicken breast enhanced with jasmine rice, shredded coconut, and crunchy Thai-style slaw earns $100,000 prize.
5/7/2007
Antimicrobial intervention symposium set
The Canadian Meat Council is bringing together researchers, government policy makers, and meat and poultry industry members and suppliers for a symposium on "Advances in Antimicrobial Interventions for Quality Control of Meat and Poultry Products." It will be held at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, Toronto Airport (Canada) on September 13 and 14, 2007.
5/18/2007
Study Warns U.S. Near Tipping Point in Corn-Based Ethanol
WASHINGTON - A major new study officially issued today conservatively estimates that increased corn prices driven by rapidly expanding U.S. ethanol production already have increased U.S. retail food prices by $14 billion annually.
Poultry News
5/10/2007
Organic poultry gains popularity
Despite high feed costs, eggs and poultry are now among the fastest growing organic food products in the US. The sale of organic eggs is expected to rise nearly 40% and poultry sales to more than triple by the end of the decade.
5/10/2007
Small town looks to turn chicken fat into power
For the Houston area to have an energy source first isn’t unusual, but the latest plan isn’t your typical black gold rush.
5/10/2007
No More "Foul" Air From This Chicken Coop
If only there were a nifty device that could filter the air leaving chicken coops to reduce the levels of potentially harmful ammonia, dust and pathogenic microbes that enter the atmosphere. Soon there may be, thanks to an Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientist in Fayetteville, Ark.
5/10/2007
New rules on chicken welfare
EUROPE: European agreement on animal welfare rules for broilers welcomed.
5/15/2007
FDA issues food safety reminder to processors
UNITED STATES: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issues letter to food manufacturers regarding legal responsibilities for the safety of food/feed ingredients.
University News
5/15/2007
Timmons new Extension poultry specialist
SALISBURY, Md. — Jennifer Timmons is the newest face at the Lower Shore Research and Education Center.
5/18/2007
Prof receives poultry industry medal of achievement
4:58 p.m., May 17, 2007--Conrad R. Pope, professor of veterinary pathology in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at UD, is the 2007 recipient of the Delmarva Poultry Industry's Medal of Achievement for a nonelected
individual.
Avian Influenza News
4/6/2007
OIE launches AI Web site
(free registration required)
The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) recently launched a new Web site providing key facts and figures about highly pathogenic avian influenza.
4/16/2007
Bug versus Bug: Insect virus makes a viable flu vaccine
A new influenza vaccine churned out by caterpillar cells prevents the flu, researchers say. The advance might eventually revolutionize the manufacture of flu vaccine, now produced in chicken eggs in a long, cumbersome process prone to contamination and other failures.
4/18/2007
FDA Licenses First U.S. Vaccine for Humans Against Avian Influenza
SWIFTWATER, Pa. and LYON, France, April 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sanofi pasteur, the vaccines division of the sanofi-aventis Group, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has licensed its H5N1 vaccine, the first avian influenza vaccine for humans in the U.S. Sanofi pasteur, in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health, submitted a Biologics License Application to the FDA for this H5N1 vaccine. The licensure serves as a first key step in achieving the government's goal of stockpiling vaccine intended to protect those who are at increased risk of exposure to the H5N1 influenza virus contained in the vaccine during the early stages of a pandemic.
Government News
4/23/2007
First decline in poultry meat production since 1973
Economic Research Service (ERS) of the US Department of Agriculture has revised its estimate of US broiler production downward for the 2007.
4/26/2007
International Egg and Poultry Review
US - By the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service - This is a weekly report looking at international developments concerning the poultry industry.
4/3/2007
F.D.A. to propose label revisions for irradiated foods
WASHINGTON — In the April 4 Federal Register, the Food and Drug Administration plans to issue a proposal to revise its labeling regulations for foods that have been treated with irradiation. The agency is proposing that only foods in which irradiation "causes a material change in the food, or a material change in the consequences that may result from the use of the food, bear the radura logo and the term ‘irradiated.’
Industry News
4/17/2007
Tyson teams with ConocoPhillips to produce renewable diesel fuel
(free registration required)
By teaming up with Tyson Foods, ConocoPhillips will be able to use beef, pork and poultry byproduct fat to create renewable diesel fuel, an effort aimed at shoring up America's energy security and addressing climate change concerns.
4/17/2007
Brazilian poultry meat exports drop
In 2006, Brazilian poultry meat exports fell 4.67% to 2.71 billion kg. This compares with 2.84 billion kg in 2005.
4/2/2007
Pilgrim's Pride recommits to production cuts
PITTSBURG, TEXAS – Despite what the U.S. Department of Agriculture expects to be the most acreage dedicated to corn crops in more than 60 years, Pilgrim's Pride Corp. plans to stick to its plan of cutting poultry production by 5% for the remainder of 2007.
Poultry News
4/23/2007
$500,000 solar project for poultry industry
A solar electric system at a poultry growout house owned by Allen Family Foods, US, has officially opened.
4/27/2007
Turning poultry waste into profit
It seems everyone nowadays is into biofuels. But when the largest poultry processor in the world decides to enter the biofuels arena, it makes a big difference.
4/26/2007
Campylobacter strategy progressing well
New Zealand: New Zealand Food Safety Authority adopts whole food chain approach to tackle pathogen.
4/4/2007
Move to cut Salmonella in chicken
EUROPE: EFSA publishes EU-wide survey on Salmonella levels in broiler meat flocks.
4/6/2007
Pilot project studying solar poultry house
At most poultry farms, there are giant fans to keep the air moving, water cooling systems to keep the chickens comfortable and rows and rows of incandescent light bulbs.
4/9/2007
Scientists look for best feed from ethanol byproduct
URBANA – Ethanol is the star on the agriculture stage now, but behind the scenes, University of Illinois animal scientists are casting the spotlight on its not-so-sexy byproduct.
4/9/2007
Burning Poultry Litter Yields Energy, Reduces Pollution
UNIVERSITY PARK -- Researchers in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences are working to perfect a method for disposing of poultry litter that could save energy costs to heat poultry houses and reduce water pollution from manure applied to fields as fertilizer. Supported by a two-year $50,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, scientists are collaborating with turkey growers and the Adams County poultry company Pilgrim's Pride to demonstrate that incineration is a viable method to resolve problems associated with the spreading of poultry litter.
4/10/2007
Report of the Task Force on Zoonoses Data Collection on the Analysis of the baseline survey on the prevalence of Salmonella in broiler flocks of Gallus gallus, in the EU, 2005-2006
Salmonella is an important cause of food-borne illnesses in humans. Farm animals and food of animal origin form an important source of human Salmonella infections. Therefore European Community legislation foresees setting of Salmonella reduction targets for animal population including broiler flocks. A European Union-wide baseline survey was carried out to determine the prevalence of Salmonella in commercial flocks of broilers with at least 5,000 birds. This survey provides information for the Salmonella target setting. The survey was the second of several baseline surveys to be conducted in the Community.
4/10/2007
Chicken litter to provide power in Georgia
(free registration required)
A new power plant in Carnesville, Ga., will produce electricity powered in part by chicken litter.
4/12/2007
Streamlining Wastewater Treatment In Poultry Processing
Columbus, WI — With the steady increase in poultry processing rates there has been a corresponding increase in wastewater pollutant concentrations.
Avian Influenza News
3/16/2007
U.S. downplays H5N1 entering via bird pathways
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - It is unlikely that a sick bird would be able to carry the deadly H5N1 avian influenza virus into the United States through the Pacific and Atlantic flyways, U.S. officials said on Wednesday
3/16/2007
Questions and Answers: Avian Influenza
3/21/2007
Researchers Find Surprising Pattern of Influenza Spread in South America and Tropics
BETHESDA, Md., March 20, 2007--Researchers studying influenza transmission patterns in the Southern Hemisphere and in tropical areas, specifically Brazil, uncovered the unexpected finding that each season influenza travels from low populated regions near the equator to the more populated centers. Their work, funded by the Fogarty International Center (NIH), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), can improve planning for influenza control in tropical areas.
3/30/2007
Scientists Hope Vigilance Stymies Avian Flu Mutations
The virus, H5N1, which was first isolated in humans in 1997, has not started a pandemic in a full decade of trying, so a few flu experts think it never wil
3/30/2007
WHO, Asian Nations Test AI Preparedness With Drill
The World Health Organization and several Asian nations will perform their first drill to determine how quickly the group can react to the initial indicators of a pandemic.
3/1/2007
Review Of 1918 Pandemic Flu Studies Offers More Questions Than Answers
Science Daily — Scientists and public health officials, wary that the H5N1 avian influenza virus could trigger an influenza pandemic, have looked to past pandemics, including the 1918 "Spanish Flu," for insight into pandemic planning. However, in a Journal of Infectious Diseases review article now posted online, David M. Morens, M.D., and Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, conclude that studies of the 1918 influenza pandemic, which killed some 50 to 100 million people around the globe, have so far raised more questions than they answer.
3/1/2007
FDA panel endorses first U.S. avian flu vaccine
The first vaccine against avian flu for the United States has been endorsed by a Food and Drug Administration advisory panel, but merely as a stopgap measure until better vaccines are developed.
3/7/2007
Scientists reconstruct migration of avian flu virus
UC Irvine researchers have combined genetic and geographic data of the H5N1 avian flu virus to reconstruct its history over the past decade. They found that multiple strains of the virus originated in the Chinese province of Guangdong, and they identified many of the migration routes through which the strains spread regionally and internationally.
Government News
3/21/2007
U.S.D.A. sees broiler 'retrenching' in 2007
WASHINGTON – Broiler production in the United States will increase only 1% in 2007, to 36 billion lbs. This would be the slowest rate of production growth since 1975, Shayle D. Shagam, a livestock analyst with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, told participants in the U.S.D.A.’s Agricultural Outlook Forum on March 2.
3/21/2007
USDA surveys broiler profitability
UNITED STATES: USDA is conducting a nationwide survey of broiler growers to determine the costs and revenues of operating their farms.
3/14/2007
U.S.D.A. formally signs agreement with F.A.O.
WASHINGTON — Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns and Director-General Jacques Diouf of the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (F.A.O.) on Wednesday signed an agreement to coordinate technical assistance between the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the F.A.O. The agreement is designed to address issues important to U.S. agriculture, such as chronic hunger, plant and animal diseases including avian influenza, conservation, genetic resources and the growing demand for renewable energy resources.
Industry News
3/21/2007
Award for Tyson
UNITED STATES: International Foodservice Distributors Association names Tyson Foods Supplier of the Year.
3/31/2007
Pilgrim's Pride official discusses Gold Kist and market challenges
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – During a presentation yesterday at the Lehman Brothers High Yield Bond and Syndicated Loan Conference, O.B. Goolsby Jr., president and chief executive of Pilgrim’s Pride Corp., Pittsburg, Texas, discussed the company’s history, its most recent acquisition, competition in the market and what lies ahead.
3/7/2007
Tyson joins University of Arkansas Board of Trustees
(free registration required)
John H. Tyson, chairman of Tyson Foods' board of directors, has been appointed to the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees by Gov. Mike Beebe.
3/7/2007
Tyson Foods named supplier of the year by I.F.D.A.
SPRINGDALE, ARK. – Tyson Foods, Inc. was named Supplier of the Year for the second year in a row by the International Foodservice Distributors Association at the association’s Partners Executive Forum, held in Amelia Island, Florida. Each year the I.F.D.A. surveys its distributor membership to rate the effectiveness and performance of foodservice supplier companies in five key business areas.
3/7/2007
Pilgrim's Pride named to 'Most Admired' list
Chicken company Pilgrim's Pride Corp. has been named to Fortune's list of "America's Most Admired Companies" for the fifth consecutive year. The firm ranked No. 2 overall in the food production industry for 2007.
Other Organizations' News
3/9/2007
Chicken Industry Supports Bills to Clarify that Federal “Superfund” Law Does Not Apply to Chicken Litter
The National Chicken Council supports legislation introduced in Congress today by a bipartisan group of influential lawmakers that will clarify that chicken litter and other types of animal manure are not hazardous waste under federal law.
3/9/2007
Higher Meat and Poultry Prices Seen As Ethanol Demand Hits Corn Supply, Chicken Industry Tells Congress
Meat and poultry producers are facing rapid increases in the cost of the grain needed to feed their animals, which economists predict will result in higher consumer prices, the chicken industry told Congress today.
3/7/2007
Ross Enterprise Webcast
Addressing Organic Food Production Challenges.
Register before March 13, 2007
3/31/2007
National Chicken Council Encouraged by Report On Corn Planting Plans, Concerned by Drop in Soybeans
Bill Roenigk, senior vice president and chief economist of the National Chicken Council, said Friday that while the Council is encouraged by the USDA Prospective Plantings report that acreage planted in corn this year will increase 15 percent over 2006, the outlook is clouded by a predicted drop in soybean acres, since the poultry industry is a major buyer of soybean meal as well as corn.
3/31/2007
Industry Roadmap: Building the Fresh Foods Supply Chain of the Future
As anyone who has been involved in the selling and tracking of random-weight or variable-measure products (such as poultry and red meat) can tell you, the current tracking system is inadequate. There is simply not enough capacity to uniquely identify today’s large number of fresh foods products and manufacturers. While today’s system may not be “broken,” it is inefficient without common standards that cross all perishable categories. A new direction and roadmap are required.
3/1/2007
Webinar by Watt Publishing
New Products and New Opportunities in the Meat and Poultry Industry
3/16/2007
NTF Chairman Expresses Concerns About Renewable Fuels and Feed
NTF Chairman Ted Seger warned the House Agriculture Committee today that the growing impact of the federal renewable fuels policy on the demand for corn and soybeans could significantly harm the turkey industry and raise food prices for consumers.
Poultry News
3/16/2007
Poultry Litter to Fuel Minnesota Power Plant
Biomass -- in this case in the form of hundreds of thousands of pounds of turkey litter with woodchips and sawdust blended in -- soon will be fueling a 55 megawatt [MW] power plant producing enough electricity to supply 50,000 homes in the Minnesota community of Benson.
3/16/2007
Salmonella control in turkey chillers
UNITED STATES: Research shows that properly managed immersion chilling systems consistently reduce salmonella and campylobacter on turkey carcasses during commercial turkey processing.
3/23/2007
Transgenic chicken eggs may fight skin cancer
SAVOY, Ill. -- Patients with skin cancer may one day have access to cheaper drugs for treatment, thanks to the work of a team of scientists in Scotland on developing transgenic chickens whose eggs contain proteins that may be the key to developing new cancer-fighting drugs and other therapeutic proteins.
3/30/2007
High fertilizer prices drive poultry sales
PURDY, Mo. — High commercial fertilizer prices are creating more interest in using poultry litter to grow crops from grass to corn.
3/30/2007
Manure as Fuel: Poultry Litter-Fueled Furnace Will Reduce Energy Costs, Protect Watershed
Newswise — Modernizing an ancient method of producing energy, a Division of Agriculture engineering researcher at the University of Arkansas has developed a system that addresses two major problems associated with poultry farming. By using poultry litter as fuel, the system will help protect the environment and could reduce individual farmers’ energy costs by as much as 80 percent.
3/30/2007
Examination of polymers created with poultry feathers
Biodegradable polymers created from poultry feathers may add value to the poultry industry and help solve the growing environmental problem of plastic waste.
3/11/2007
Bacteria control product to begin testing in US poultry plants
Tasker Blue has consistently tested effective in significantly lowering these and other bacteria during poultry processing under research conditions.
3/13/2007
Change is on the way for meat/poultry processors
Meat and poultry processing plants are in for a change -- more concentrated risk-based inspection system (RBI).
3/1/2007
Poultry: January Egg Production Down 1 Percent
U.S. egg production totaled 7.64 billion during January 2007, down 1 percent from last year. Production included 6.54 billion table eggs, and 1.10 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.03 billion were broiler-type and 67 million were egg-type. The total number of layers during January 2007 averaged 347 million, down 1 percent from last year. January egg production per 100 layers was 2,200 eggs, down slightly from January 2006.
3/1/2007
Poultry Slaughter: Ready-to-Cook Weights Down Slightly
Poultry certified wholesome during January 2007 (ready-to-cook weight) totaled 3.55 billion pounds, down slightly from the amount certified in January 2006. December 2006 revised certified total at 3.20 billion pounds, was down 6 percent from December 2005. The December revision represented an increase of 20.4 million pounds from last month's preliminary pounds certified.
Avian Influenza News
2/3/2007
GlaxoSmithKline Files Its New Pre-Pandemic Influenza Vaccine In Europe
GlaxoSmithKline (NYSE: GSK) today announced that its new generation H5N1 split antigen pre-pandemic influenza vaccine has been accepted for review by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) in Europe. This innovative vaccine utilizes GSK's novel proprietary adjuvant system technology which allows a very low amount of antigen (3.8µg) to be used to elicit a strong seroprotective response -- the so-called 'antigen-sparing' effect.
2/3/2007
Tiny Mutations Can Limit Influenza Spread, Study Finds
ATLANTA, Feb. 1 -- Two small mutations are enough to turn off the ability of the highly lethal, wildly contagious "Spanish influenza" virus to pass from person to person, a new study suggests.
2/3/2007
Bird Flu Control Measures Have `Failed,' Webster Says (Update1)
Feb. 1 (Bloomberg) -- The resurgence of avian influenza among poultry and people in Asia and Africa shows international control measures have ``failed,'' a U.S. expert said.
2/18/2007
Scientists Warn That Bird-Flu Virus Remains a Threat
Last winter, as the deadly bird-flu virus marched out of Asia, across Europe and down into Africa, public health experts warned of the potential for a catastrophic pandemic like the Spanish flu of 1918.
2/18/2007
WHO reports development of influenza vaccine
Geneva, Feb 17: The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported encouraging progress in the development of avian influenza vaccine.
2/17/2007
Poultry trade, not wild birds, now responsible for spread of avian flu – UN expert
Avian influenza, last season transmitted by migrating wild birds, is now being spread through the poultry trade, the top United Nations expert on the issue said today, warning that despite some successful efforts of States to contain the virus, no one can afford to be complacent as it could potentially mutate into a human pandemic.
2/18/2007
Bird flu summit scheduled
UNITED STATES: The fourth international bird flu summit will be held next month in Washington, D.C.
Government News
2/18/2007
USDA Long-Term Projections: World Poultry Imports
Poultry meat imports by major importers are projected to increase by about 0.8 million tons (15 percent) from 2007 to 2016.
2/18/2007
USDA: Increased ethanol output will force expansion of U.S. corn crop
(free registration required)
Ethanol production will drive corn output up to 12.065 billion bushels in the 2007-08 marketing year, with additional increased corn planting over the next decade, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said Wednesday.
2/3/2007
FSIS works to protect U.S. food supply
UNITED STATES: The Food Safety and Inspection Service is working to protect the nation’s food supply in the event of an avian influenza outbreak.
2/3/2007
FSIS label changes for poultry
2/23/2007
FSIS Proposes Timeline for Risk-Based Inspection in Processing Plants
WASHINGTON, Feb. 22, 2007 — USDA Under Secretary for Food Safety Dr. Richard Raymond today announced a timetable for introducing more robust risk-based inspection in processing plants, proposing to begin in April with 30 locations representing about 254 establishments and potentially expanding to approximately 150 locations by the end
of 2007.
2/20/2007
Georgia poultry research lab could be expanding
The country's main bird flu research program could be undergoing a major renovation, including the expansion of a new lab in Athens, Georgia.
2/20/2007
Changes to U.S. meat, poultry inspections
UNITED STATES: Major changes to the United States food inspection system could mean tougher inspections for meat and poultry companies.
2/3/2007
LIVESTOCK, DAIRY, AND POULTRY OUTLOOK
Industry News
2/23/2007
EU poultry production declines due to AI
GERMANY: A German market analyst says EU poultrymeat production was down about two percent last year because of bird flu.
2/20/2007
Global poultry industry being squeezed
BRAZIL: A poultry industry analyst says avian influenza outbreaks and high maize prices are taking a toll on the industry.
2/18/2007
Rising poultry prices relieve producers
Poultry prices are rising rapidly, which may be just what the poultry sector needs to return to profitability in the wake of the bird flu scare that prompted a supply glut last year.
2/18/2007
Poultry sales mostly unaffected by bird flu
Leading supermarket chains say the recent bird flu outbreak in Britain has had little impact on poultry counter sales so far -- a view echoed in other parts of Europe.
2/18/2007
Poultry industry looks for better '07
Production may be cut to help rebound
Higher input costs and greater poultry supplies nationwide resulted in a tough 2006 for profits, and area companies may be reducing production numbers to rebound the 2007 market, industry experts said.
Other Organizations' News
2/18/2007
International Poultry Expo Posts Increase in Attendance
The 2007 International Poultry Expo brought together nearly 20,000 attendees from 48 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and 90 countries.
2/3/2007
USPOULTRY names new VP of food safety and production
(free registration required)
The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association on Tuesday announced the appointment of Alling Yancy to the post of vice president of food safety and production programs, effective Feb. 12.
Poultry News
2/3/2007
‘Big birds’ leave tracks on retail and foodservice
UNITED STATES: Big birds may be popular with processors who get more bang for their buck, but consumers still like smaller birds better.
2/18/2007
US antibiotics phased out in two years time
Bills have been introduced in the US Congress that would phase-out within two years the non-therapeutic use in animal feed of antibiotics that are deemed important to human medicine. They also would require manufacturers to submit information on the amounts of such drugs sold.
2/3/2007
Avian cholera identified in seagulls: N.L. vet
Avian cholera, a disease that can quickly kill bird populations, has been diagnosed in six dead seagulls, Newfoundland and Labrador's chief veterinarian reported Tuesday.
University News
2/18/2007
Penn State Poultry Science Club Named Club of Year
The Penn State Poultry Science Club was named national Club of the Year for the fourth time in six years at the International Poultry Exposition in Atlanta, Georgia., last month.
Avian Influenza News
1/22/2007
World is years away from controlling bird flu: WHO
GENEVA (Reuters) - The world is years away from stamping out bird flu in poultry, and the threat of a human pandemic will remain until it does, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday.
1/2/2007
Molecular Anatomy of Influenza Virus Detailed
Being able to visualize influenza virus particles should boost our efforts to prepare for a possible pandemic flu attack, says NIAMS Director Stephen I. Katz, M.D., Ph.D. This work will allow us to ‘know our enemy much better.
1/4/2007
NIAID DNA Vaccine for H5N1 Avian Influenza Enters Human Trial
The first human trial of a DNA vaccine designed to prevent H5N1 avian influenza infection began on December 21, 2006, when the vaccine was administered to the first volunteer at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center in Bethesda, MD. Scientists from the Vaccine Research Center (VRC) at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), one of the NIH Institutes, designed the vaccine. The vaccine does not contain any infectious material from the influenza virus.
1/2/2007
New AI guidelines issued
ITALY: The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed advice for the use of antiviral treatments for avian influenza.
1/5/2007
Bird flu tops list of challenges as Chan takes over WHO
(free registration required)
Margaret Chan, a 59-year-old Hong Kong native, took charge of the World Health Organization on Thursday, pledging to prioritize the concerns of women and Africans even while coping with the ongoing specter of bird flu.
1/5/2007
Avian Flu Virus Unlikely To Spread Through Wastewater And Drinking Water Treatment Systems, Cornell Researchers Find
A close relative of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1) can be eliminated by waste and drinking water treatments, including chlorination, ultraviolet (UV) radiation and bacterial digesters. The virus is harmless to humans but provides a study case of the pathways by which the influenza could spread to human populations.
1/9/2007
OSHA gives guidance for protecting against avian influenza
The Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently released guidance about the hazards of occupational exposure to avian influenza, with practical recommendations on ways to avoid infection
Government News
1/9/2007
Masters leaving F.S.I.S., Goldman to acting administrator
WASHINGTON — Dr. Barbara Masters will step down as administrator of the Food Safety and Inspection Service on Jan. 19 to become senior policy analyst for the Washington-based law firm of Olsson Frank and Weeda, according to Dr. Richard Raymond, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s undersecretary for food safety.
1/2/2007
U.S. to allow cloned meat in food supply
UNITED STATES: The Food and Drug Administration says meat and milk products from cloned animals and their offspring are safe to eat.
1/22/2007
Exclusive: Masters says HACCP top achievement
UNITED STATES: Former FSIS administrator, Barbara Masters, tells MeatNews her involvement with HACCP was her greatest accomplishment at FSIS.
Industry News
1/22/2007
Pilgrim's Pride’s marketing healthy kids products
UNITED STATES: Pilgrim's Pride says its EatWellStayHealthy Kids chicken products will be available in 3,000+ stores by the end of February.
1/2/2007
Pilgrim's Pride Wins Gold Kist Shares
PITTSBURG, Texas — Poultry producer Pilgrim's Pride Corp. said Thursday that it received 88.9 percent of shares in Gold Kist Inc. with its $1.1 billion tender offer and expects to complete the acquisition of its rival in early January.
1/2/2007
Poultry farms feeling pinched
LUDLOW — Deep in rural Scott County, where rusted farm equipment and muddied pickup trucks sit among bales of hay, aging farmers fear their livelihood is at stake
1/26/2007
Tyson gives incentive to record breakers
UNITED STATES: Tyson Foods says it will give anyone who breaks a world record at the Tyson Invitational $50,000.
1/2/2007
NO TYSON BONUSES THIS YEAR
UNITED STATES: Tyson Foods says because of poor performance this year no one, including senior executives, will get year-end bonuses.
1/10/2007
Pilgrim's Pride acquires Gold Kist
UNITED STATES: Pilgrim’s Pride says integration efforts are underway now that it has acquired Gold Kist, forming the largest chicken company in the U.S.
Other Organizations' News
1/12/2007
Antibiotics are Used Safely and Responsibly in the Broiler Industry
The authors of the Johns Hopkins paper took average performance data from one company and applied what they believed to be average industry costs and are trying to apply it to every flock in the United States, which is not a valid analysis. Sometimes the average will apply and often it won’t. Health care for animals depends largely on local conditions, a fact that was noted in the original paper cited by the authors of the new paper.
1/12/2007
NTF Promotes Three Staff Members
National Turkey Federation (NTF) President Joel Brandenberger announced the promotion of three NTF staff members: Sherrie Rosenblatt to vice president of marketing and communications; Michael Rybolt to director of scientific and regulatory affairs; and Brie Wilson to director of member and convention services.
1/16/2007
WATT launches new poultry website
UNITED STATES: WATT has launched a new website for the world’s commercial poultry industries.
1/26/2007
CHICKEN INDUSTRY ISSUES WARNING ON PRICE IMPACT OF GREATER DEMAND FOR ETHANOL
The vast increase in the use of renewable and alternative fuels urged by President Bush could have the unintended effect of pushing up the cost of poultry and other foods of animal origin, according to the National Chicken Council.
1/24/2007
U.S. Poultry names new VP
The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association has named a new Vice President of Food Safety and Production Programs.
1/4/2007
American Poultry Hall of Fame Adds Five Industry Leaders
The American Poultry Historical Society will honor five outstanding individuals by inducting them into the American Poultry Hall of Fame. Donald D. Bell, Nelson A. Cox, James H. Denton, Robert H. Harms, and Richard L. Witter will be inducted into the American Poultry Hall of Fame on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2007, at the International Poultry Expo and International Feed Expo in Atlanta, Ga. The ceremony is open to all IPE and IFE attendees.
1/5/2007
Childers named Poultry Federation president
LITTLE ROCK - Term-limited state Rep. Marvin Childers, R-Blytheville, was named Tuesday as president of the Arkansas Poultry Federation.
Poultry News
1/4/2007
Entrepreneurs look to use chicken fat for fuel
DEXTER, Mo. - Jerry Bagby is typical of the oil men who are prospecting for a fortune in the Midwestern biofuels boom. He's convinced there's oil in these hills - and he's found a well that no one else is using.
1/24/2007
Atlanta poultry show starts with science
As a prelude to the International Poultry Expo (IPE), the annual International Poultry Scientific Forum started yesterday, January 22. Attendance was expected to be up to the usual level of around 700.
1/25/2007
Poultry Expo underway
ATLANTA - The 2007 International Poultry Expo is underway in Atlanta.
1/19/2007
NOVEMBER 2006 EGG INDUSTRY STATISTICS
1/19/2007
Summary of Flock Size and Egg Price Projections for 2007
1/19/2007
SUMMARY OF ESTIMATED REGIONAL EGG PRODUCTION COSTS - 2006
1/19/2007
Brazil reports stable broiler production
BRAZIL: The Brazilian Broiler Chick Producer’s Association says broiler production remained virtually unchanged last year.
1/22/2007
Researchers find way to cut back poultry manure odor
Researchers at Iowa State University have uncovered another way to cover up the smell of animal manure. Jacek Koziel conducted the study on poultry manure using a product called zeolite. He says zeolite is an inexpensive clay-like material that can be mined and has a lot of surface are so it can store a lot of odorous gases. Koziel is an assistant professor in Iowa State's agricultural and biosystems engineering department.
1/2/2007
Turkey less popular this year in Brazil
BRAZIL: More and more Brazilians are reportedly choosing pumped up chester over turkey this holiday season.
1/2/2007
DEFRA and SAC develop poultry red mite vaccine
Extensive experience gained researching sheep scab mites has opened up a major new avenue for researching poultry red mite, according to Dr John Huntley, of Edinburgh’s Moredun Research Institute.
Avian Influenza News
12/1/2006
Influenza fact sheet - Symptoms, Protection and what to do
Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The flu can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to death.
12/1/2006
Flu viruses survive frozen in lakes, study finds
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Influenza virus can live for decades and perhaps even longer in frozen lakes and might be picked up and carried by birds to reinfect animals and people, researchers reported on Tuesday.
12/1/2006
Virginia officials monitor waterfowl for avian flu
In a nationwide effort to monitor a dangerous strain of avian flu, the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries is collecting waterfowl samples. It's a smart call by wildlife officials who want to stay on top of something like the highly pathogenic Asian strain of H5N1 avian influenza.
12/4/2006
Bird flu fight needs more cash - World Bank
DAKAR, Dec 4 (Reuters) - Compensating poultry farmers fast and fairly is central to a global fight against bird flu that is projected to cost an extra $1.2-1.5 billion over the next 2-3 years, international experts said on Monday.
12/6/2006
New Research Predicts U.S. Entry of H5N1 Avian Influenza
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Scientists at the Consortium for Conservation Medicine (CCM), Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, and Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoo report H5N1 avian influenza is most likely to be introduced to countries in the Western Hemisphere through infected poultry trade.
12/7/2006
Egg-injected vaccine would protect birds from A.I.
AUBURN, ALA. — An egg-injected vaccine has been developed to protect poultry against avian influenza. Harold Toro, an Auburn University veterinary professor, in collaboration with researchers at Vaxin Inc., Birmingham, Ala., has developed the first "in ovo," or egg-injected, vaccine to fight against A.I. He said the vaccine would provide 100% protection once an outbreak’s strain is determined. Mr. Toro’s research is being published in the scientific journal, Vaccine
12/13/2006
No bird flu outbreak in 12 months but Vietnam taking no chances
No new bird flu outbreak has been reported in Vietnam since December 2005, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development announced.
12/15/2006
AI REMAINS A GLOBAL THREAT
ITALY/MALI: Disease experts say Africa is vulnerable to the virus which might spark a pandemic in humans.
12/14/2006
U.S. Poultry experts ready for bird flu
GAINESVILLE, Ga. (AFX) - The dreaded avian influenza outbreak has yet to strike the U.S., but here in one of the nation's leading poultry producing regions they talk as if it already has.
12/19/2006
Fact Sheet: Implementation of the National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza: Six-Month Status Report
Today, Frances Fragos Townsend, The Assistant To The President For Homeland Security And Counterterrorism, Summarized Progress The U.S. Government Has Made Implementing The Actions In The National Strategy For Pandemic Influenza Implementation Plan. The National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza was released by the President on November 1, 2005, on the same day that the President requested $7.1 billion from Congress to accomplish the objectives of the Strategy. The Implementation Plan was released on May 3, 2006, and directed Federal Departments and Agencies to undertake over 300 actions in support of the National Strategy.
12/20/2006
UMd tests cell-cultured bird flu vaccine
A bird flu vaccine cultured in laboratory-grown cells and not chicken eggs like traditional vaccines is being tested at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
12/26/2006
New poultry regulations exclude backyard, hobby flocks
RICHMOND—While new regulations governing all aspects of the live bird marketing system in Virginia went into effect this fall, owners of backyard and hobby flocks are exempt.
Government News
12/21/2006
BROILER NUMBERS CONTINUE TO SHRINK
UNITED STATES: Chicken companies set fewer broiler eggs in incubators and placed fewer chicks on farms.
12/20/2006
FDA Reminds Consumers to Practice Egg Safety this Holiday Season
The U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reminds consumers to pay special attention to the handling of eggs and preparation of foods that contain eggs during this holiday season. Some holiday favorites, such as cookie dough, homemade eggnog, and some types of stuffing, may contain eggs that are raw or undercooked. Eggs sometimes contain a bacteria called Salmonella enteriditis (SE), which can cause illness if eggs are not handled and cooked properly. An FDA national survey of consumer food safety practices, the 2006 FDA/FSIS Food Safety Survey, found that cookie dough is one of the major sources of raw egg in the American diet, and that only three percent of respondents always use a food thermometer when they cook baked egg dishes such as stuffing.
12/19/2006
Cool-Water Wash for Eggs Can Help Prevent Microbial Contamination
Using cooler water to wash shell eggs during a second washing can help cool them quicker. This reduces the potential of foodborne pathogen growth both inside the eggs and on the eggshell surface, according to scientists with the Agricultural Research Service (ARS).
12/11/2006
ARS patents new anti-E. coli and salmonella feed additive
(free registration required)
USDA's Agricultural Research Service has patented a new chlorate-based compound that when added in small amounts to cattle feed two days before slaughter significantly reduces levels of salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 in the animals' digestive tract.
12/4/2006
FSIS to Hold a Public Meeting to Help Define 'Natural' Label
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2006 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) today announced a public meeting to discuss a petition to establish a definition for the voluntary claim "natural" and to gather comments on conditions under which the claim should be allowed to be used on the labels of meat and poultry products.
12/8/2006
Mushrooms Have a Future in Fighting a Fowl Parasite
Wide use of a mushroom extract to protect poultry against a major parasitic disease is now closer, thanks to an Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientist and her South Korean colleagues.
12/6/2006
Using Comparative Genomics to Manage Marek's Disease
The genetic code for a virulent strain of Marek's disease virus was cracked a few years ago. Now, to determine how best to cripple it and other infectious strains, Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists are working to decipher the genomes of several nonvirulent Marek's disease (MDV) vaccine strains.
12/4/2006
CHICKEN SLAUGHTER JUMPS
UNITED STATES: USDA says poultry processors output five percent more ready-to-cook chicken in October than they did one year earlier.
12/7/2006
USDA to review 'natural' claims for meat, poultry
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is set to implement new rules on the definition of the term ‘natural’, after receiving a petition stating that the claim on meat and poultry products is misleading to consumers.
12/13/2006
U.S. International Avian and Pandemic Influenza Assistance Tops $434 Million
The United States announced today an increase of $100 million in international assistance to address the threat of avian and pandemic influenza since January 2006. The announcement came at an international conference in Bamako co-sponsored by the Government of the Republic of Mali, the European Commission and the African Union.
12/26/2006
POULTRY IMPROVEMENT PLAN MEETING
UNITED STATES: A meeting has been scheduled on the National Poultry Improvement Plan.
12/26/2006
USDA ADDRESSES RISK BASED INSPECTION
UNITED STATES: A U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) official is speaking about Risk Based Inspection of Meat and Poultry Products.
Industry News
12/6/2006
NEW POULTRY GIANT ANNOUNCED
UNITED STATES: Pilgrim’s Pride and Gold Kist have announced a merger that will form the largest poultry company in the U.S.
12/13/2006
Brazil agrees on poultry quotas
New quotas for imports of poultry from Brazil have been agreed with the EU.
12/20/2006
Foster Farms unveils new 'Imposters' Web sites
(free registration required)
The Foster Imposters, the junk food-eating chickens who have been impersonating Foster Farms birds in ads for the Livingston, Calif.-based poultry processor since 1993, now have two new homes on the Web.
12/26/2006
Pilgrim's Pride gives $25,000 to education
Christmas came early for Kennesaw State University's Clarice C. and Leland H. Bagwell College of Education. In its effort to support education throughout the Southeast, Pilgrim's Pride Corp., the second-largest poultry producer in the country, donated $25,000 to the college, as a result of the 2006 Bagwell Ball fundraiser held in October.
12/26/2006
Poultry farm to run on solar power
Alan Family Foods in Laurel, Delaware, USA, is to build a photovoltaic system to power its growout poultry house. The system is supplied by WorldWater & Power Corp, involving a US$500,000 investment.
12/1/2006
Pilgrim's Pride: Gold Kist shareholders support takeover bid
(free registration required)
Pittsburg, Texas-based Pilgrim's Pride Corp. said Thursday that most Gold Kist stockholders support the No. 2 processor's attempt to take over its Atlanta-based rival.
12/1/2006
Majority of Gold Kist shareholders back Pilgrim's Pride bid
PITTSBURG, TEXAS — Pilgrim’s Pride’s hostile bid for Gold Kist Inc. moved a step closer Thursday, as Gold Kist shareholders tendered 34,219,233 shares, or approximately 67%, of the company’s stock.
12/4/2006
Gold Kist agrees to $1.1 billion buyout
(free registration required)
Months after Pittsburg, Texas-based Pilgrim's Pride Corp. launched a hostile takeover bid for rival chicken processor Gold Kist, the two companies have reached an agreement.
Other Organizations' News
12/21/2006
U.S. - Panama Free Trade Agreement "Will Prove Beneficial" for Poultry, NCC Says
The National Chicken Council recognizes poultry was a sensitive product during negotiations, making it a challenge to reach a satisfactory agreement. On balance, NCC believes the US-Panama Free Trade Agreement will prove beneficial for poultry exports. Having Panama recognize USDA inspection service and international standards for poultry health as part of the agreement is a very positive development.
12/19/2006
MPRP Reasearch Summit & MPC Annual Meeting
12/8/2006
NTF Chairman Presents President Bush with "Flyer" The National Thanksgiving Turkey
President George W. Bush and National Turkey Federation (NTF) Chairman Mike Briggs continued a 59-year-old holiday tradition today when Briggs presented the president with the National Thanksgiving Turkey in a White House Rose Garden ceremony.
Poultry News
12/11/2006
Egg Economics Update August 2006
U.S. Farm Egg Production Income, Costs and Profitability - 2001 to 2006
12/11/2006
SEPTEMBER 2006 EGG INDUSTRY STATISTICS "LATEST" AVAILABLE
12/7/2006
Ethanol production to have further impact on poultry industry
The poultry industry may feel further impact from increased production of ethanol next year, particularly in the US, as more corn is diverted away from feed production.
12/6/2006
Bacteria found in 83% of chickens
Cook your chicken to 165 degrees and wash up with soap and hot water afterward. That's the take-home message of a report released Monday by Consumer Reports. It found that 83% of 525 chickens it tested were infected with either campylobacter or salmonella bacteria or both.
12/6/2006
Poultry bacteria study is inaccurate: USDA
A study by Consumer Reports in the US indicates that eighty-three percent of chicken sold in US grocery stores may contain bacteria that cause foodborne illnesses. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA), however, says the study was flawed.
12/6/2006
Fresh Chicken Is Safe and Healthful, Notwithstanding "Consumer Reports"
Fresh chicken is a healthful and natural food that is safe to eat when handled and prepared according to simple, common-sense procedures printed on the wrapping of every package of fresh poultry and meat sold in the United States. Consumer Reports says what every cook already knows, that fresh poultry may carry naturally occurring bacteria and should be properly handled and cooked. The Consumer Reports story, as far as we know, contains nothing new and should not be cause for alarm to anyone.
12/20/2006
First solar-powered poultry house set for 2007
Dec. 18, 2006--A first-of-its-kind solar-powered poultry house will soon begin operations at a Laurel farm owned by Allen Family Foods Inc. The house is part of a research project to evaluate the use of solar power as an economical source of energy for poultry houses.
12/18/2006
RISE IN CAMPYLOBACTER CASES
EUROPE: Campylobacteriosis overtakes salmonellosis as the most reported animal infection transmitted to humans in the EU.
12/13/2006
Poultry manure makes better fertilizer than cow dung
Dried poultry manure is two to three times as rich as cow manure in inorganic fertilizer content.
12/26/2006
UK POULTRY REGISTER SUCCESSFUL
UNITED KINGDOM: One year on, more than 250 million poultry appear on the GB Poultry Register.
Avian Influenza News
11/17/2006
Scientists find mutations that let bird flu adapt to humans
By comparing influenza viruses found in birds with those of the avian virus that have also infected human hosts, researchers have identified key genetic changes required for pandemic strains of bird flu.
11/17/2006
OSHA updates guidance on avian flu
Nov 15, 2006 (CIDRAP News) – The US Department of Labor yesterday released revised Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidance to help employers protect their workers from job-related exposure to H5N1 avian influenza.
11/17/2006
Gene chip test identifies bird flu strains
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A new "gene chip" test can quickly and cheaply identify different influenza strains, allowing doctors to easily tell who has H5N1 avian influenza and who has everyday flu, U.S. researchers said on Monday.
11/13/2006
WHO tells bird flu scientists to stop squabbling
HONG KONG (Reuters) - The World Health Organization has urged Chinese and foreign scientists to stop squabbling and share information to figure out how to combat a new H5N1 bird flu virus strain that is spreading unchecked in poultry flocks.
11/13/2006
Foam OKd to kill bird flu-infected fowl
(free registration required)
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The government has approved the use of firefighting foam to kill chickens quickly if there is an outbreak of deadly bird flu in commercial poultry.
11/3/2006
U.N. Official Sees Bird Flu as Threat for Next Decade
Bird flu is likely to remain a health threat to animals, and possibly humans, for the next decade, the U.N. coordinator for avian influenza says.
11/3/2006
USDA Downplays Significance Of Low-Pathogenic Bird Flu
The U.S. Department of Agriculture will, as of this week, stop issuing press releases on the discoveries of low-pathogenic bird flu, but will continue to compile findings and data from its surveillance program on government Internet sites.
11/3/2006
No avian flu found in tests of Ohio birds
Tests conducted by two federal agencies have confirmed that no avian influenza virus was found in samples collected from wild ducks in Ohio several weeks ago.
11/3/2006
Fears of Pandemic Flu makes Americans Ready for Change
Most Americans are ready to make major changes in their lives and cooperate with public health officials' recommendations when faced with serious outbreak of pandemic flu according to the latest national survey conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) Project on the Public and Biological Security
11/3/2006
USDA Changing AI Announcements
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Department of Interior (DOI) to post low path AI findings online.
11/3/2006
Susceptibility of North American Ducks and Gulls to H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses
Since 2002, H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses have been associated with deaths in numerous wild avian species throughout Eurasia. We assessed the clinical response and extent and duration of viral shedding in 5 species of North American ducks and laughing gulls (Larus atricilla) after intranasal challenge with 2 Asian H5N1 HPAI viruses. Birds were challenged at ~10 to 16 weeks of age, consistent with temporal peaks in virus prevalence and fall migration. All species were infected, but only wood ducks (Aix sponsa) and laughing gulls exhibited illness or died. Viral titers were higher in oropharyngeal swabs than in cloacal swabs. Duration of viral shedding (1-10 days) increased with severity of clinical disease. Both the hemagglutination-inhibition (HI) and agar gel precipitin (AGP) tests were able to detect postinoculation antibodies in surviving wood ducks and laughing gulls; the HI test was more sensitive than the AGP in the remaining 4 species.
11/3/2006
New strain of Avian Flu discovered
Scientists in Asia have discovered a new strain of the disease - H5N1 avian influenza, to give it its scientific description - which has spread from birds to people and suggests that a third wave of avian flu could be on its way.
11/3/2006
Human Bird Flu Deaths in 2006 Match Previous Two Years Combined
Bird flu killed a 39-year-old woman in Egypt, pushing the number of fatalities worldwide this year to 74, as many as reported in the previous two years combined.
11/3/2006
Genetic disposition suspected for human bird flu--WHO
Scientists suspect some people have a "genetic disposition" for infection with bird flu, which may explain why some get it and others don't, and why it remains relatively rare, the World Health Organisation said on Thursday.
11/3/2006
Bird flu spread tied to outdated farming
IMPROPER poultry raising and sales techniques - rather than the flights of migratory birds - play the most important role in the spread of the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus, United Nations officials said yesterday at a conference in eastern China.
11/3/2006
Avian Influenza's Impact on International Trade Is Subject of New CAST Commentary. Avian Influenza: Trade Issues
Although much of the concern about a pandemic outbreak of high-pathogenic avian influenza centers on human health, the potential impacts on the international poultry trade are significant. To bring these trade concerns into sharper focus, CAST has prepared a new Commentary.
11/3/2006
Avian Influenza Is Topic of Newest CAST Commentary Avian Influenza: Human Pandemic Concerns
In response to heightened concern about the possibility of a human pandemic resulting from avian influenza, CAST has prepared a new Commentary on the subject. In Avian Influenza: Human Pandemic Concerns a task force of subject experts addresses the current situation, evaluates the structure and function of avian influenza viruses, outlines pandemic risk assesment, and provides references for further information.
Government News
11/13/2006
Less Corn for Meat Production
UNITED STATES: USDA estimates that the 2006 corn crop will be three percent less than last year but there will be five percent more soybeans.
11/13/2006
U.S. Chicken Numbers Slide
UNITED STATES: USDA reports a modest three percent decrease in the number of meat-type chicken eggs set in commercial incubators.
11/3/2006
U.S. Chicken-Meat Potential Continues Slide
USDA reports that the number of broiler eggs set in commercial incubators decreased two percent last week.
11/3/2006
Surveillance Instructions Reissued
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service has reissued its food surveillance procedures.
11/3/2006
Poultry trade predictions for 2007
The US Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service has prepared a report that provides an overview of global poultry trade predictions for 2007.
11/17/2006
USDA Helps Americans Be Food Safe This Thanksgiving
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2006 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service is providing consumers with key recommendations they can use to help reduce the risk of foodborne illness during the Thanksgiving holiday.
11/17/2006
Coming Soon: More Turkeys
UNITED STATES: USDA reports a nine percent increase in the number of turkey eggs set in commercial incubators in October.
Industry News
11/17/2006
Pilgrim's Pride still wants Gold Kist
(free registration required)
Pilgrim's Pride said Tuesday it is committed to continuing its efforts to acquire rival chicken processor Gold Kist.
11/17/2006
Pilgrim's Pride marks 60th anniversary
(free registration required)
DULUTH, GA. – Pilgrim's Pride Corp. is celebrating its 60th year of supplying farm-raised poultry. Pilgrim's Pride serves the restaurant industry through its Pilgrim's Pride Foodservice division, which is the second-largest poultry provider in the business.
11/17/2006
News from the American Egg Board
Ivy to lead American Egg Board as New CEO
11/13/2006
US Poultry Producers Support Russian WTO Agreement
US - The National Chicken Council and the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council are pleased and supportive that the United States and Russia have reached an agreement in principle on market access issues so that Russia can move forward toward joining the World Trade Organization.
11/13/2006
Tyson Foods wants to turn animal fat into fuel
CHICAGO, Nov 13 (Reuters) - The largest U.S. meat producer, Tyson Foods Inc. produces 2.3 billion pounds (1 billion kg) of animal fat a year and the company thinks that could be turned into fuel, Tyson officials said on Monday.
11/13/2006
Cargill Donating Thanksgiving Turkeys
UNITED STATES: Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation donating turkeys to Ronald McDonald Houses for Thanksgiving.
11/13/2006
News from American Egg Board
Eggs a star in restaurant publication.
11/3/2006
Drought Impacts Australian Poultry Industry
The Australian Chicken Meat Federation says an ongoing drought in rural Australia is having a severe impact on the chicken meat industry.
11/3/2006
Deal Over Poultry Imports
EU and Brazil agree on a new EU poultry meat import regime.
11/3/2006
Perdue Farms receives national award for health and wellness program
Officials with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services this past week recognized Perdue Farms, Inc. for successfully implementing a creative health and wellness program for employees of its 17 processing facilities.
11/3/2006
Chicken Export Concerns
Thai chicken processing industry concerned over levels of export quota to the EU.
University News
11/17/2006
MSU opens new poultry research, teaching lab
Teaching and research capabilities in Mississippi State University's Poultry Science Department have been expanded with the opening of a new poultry processing laboratory.
Avian Influenza News
10/27/2006
Wild Bird Samples from Michigan Undergo Additional Avian Influenza Testing
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Department of the Interior (DOI) today announced a detection of H5 and N1 avian influenza subtypes in a wild Green-winged teal sample from Tuscola County, Mich., that was killed by hunters. Initial tests confirm that this wild bird sample does not contain the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain that has spread through birds in Asia, Europe and Africa. However, initial test results do indicate the presence of low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) virus, which poses no threat to human health.
10/27/2006
Indonesia moving on AI: poultry to be caged
Indonesia has begun what its government acknowledges will be a monumental and difficult task in the fight against bird flu – demanding that poultry in urban areas are caged.
10/20/2006
Low pathogenic A.I. found in Ohio birds
Low pathogenic avian influenza virus was identified in wild birds killed by a hunter in Ottawa County, Ohio earlier this month. The samples were collected Oct. 8 as part of an expanded wild bird monitoring program developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Division of Wildlife. Initial tests confirmed the bird samples did not contain the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain.
10/13/2006
Bird flu found in pigs in Indonesia's Bali
The H5N1 bird flu virus has infected pigs on the Indonesian resort island of Bali, a senior agriculture ministry official said on Monday.
10/13/2006
Avian Influenza Tests Complete on Wild Northern Pintail Ducks in Montana
The U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Interior today announced final test results, which confirm that a low pathogenic H5 avian influenza virus was found in samples collected last month from wild Northern pintail ducks in Montana. This type of avian influenza has been detected several times in wild birds in North America and poses no risk to human health.
10/13/2006
Pigs, cats in Indonesia infected with H5N1
Pigs and stray cats have been found infected with the H5N1 avian influenza virus in Indonesia, adding to the few previous reports of such cases, according to news services.
10/13/2006
Avian Influenza Briefing Scheduled
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Wisconsin Department of Agriculture have teamed up to update poultry and wild bird stakeholders on avian influenza.
10/13/2006
Improved test can detect avian or seasonal flu
An updated diagnostic test can simultaneously detect whether someone is suffering from an H5 strain of bird flu or seasonal influenza, its developer said on Tuesday.
10/6/2006
U.S. Bird Flu Plans Near "State of the Art": official
U.S. preparations against a possible outbreak of the deadly form of the H5N1 avian flu virus are solid, but other countries may not be as ready, a U.S. health safety official warned on Thursday.
10/6/2006
Illinois Wild Bird Samples Undergo Additional Avian Influenza Testing
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Department of the Interior (DOI) today announced a detection of the H5 and N1 avian influenza subtypes in samples from wild, migratory Green-winged Teals in Illinois. Initial tests confirm that these wild duck samples do not contain the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain that has spread through birds in Asia, Europe and Africa. These samples were collected from apparently healthy birds and initial test results indicate the presence of low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) virus, which poses no threat to human health.
10/6/2006
U.K. Orders AI Vaccine
The British government has ordered 10 million doses of avian influenza vaccine as a contingency plan.
10/6/2006
China warns of shortfalls in bird flu fight
China still faces serious shortcomings in its bird flu prevention preparations and government departments must do better ahead of the autumn season, a vice agriculture minister said on Thursday.
10/6/2006
Molecule blocks flu infection, U.S. researchers say
A fragment of a human protein that blocks influenza viruses -- including avian flu -- from attaching to and infecting cells holds promise if laboratory experiments are borne out, researchers said on Wednesday.
Government News
10/20/2006
U.S. Turkey Production Jumps
USDA reports a 12 percent increase in the number of turkey eggs set in U.S. hatcheries.
10/13/2006
USDA Proposes Fee Hike for Egg, Poultry Grading
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a proposal to increase fees for certain grading services for eggs, poultry, and rabbits. The fees and charges need to be changed to cover rising agency costs and salaries of federal and state employees who administer the programs. The agency is required to collect fees from users of these services to cover the costs of services rendered
10/13/2006
Salmonella test approved for poultry plants
A new rapid test for Salmonella has been approved for use in poultry plants by a department of agriculture committee.
10/6/2006
CDC Says Food Supply Safe
A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) food scientist, Dr. Robert Tauxe, says U.S. food is the safest it has been in the past decade.
10/6/2006
U.S. Poultry Trade With Cuba Booming
Companies in 37 states exporting food to Cuba despite trade embargo.
10/6/2006
Court keeps poultry slaughter case alive
In a victory for animal-rights supporters, a U.S. district court ruled on Wednesday that members of the U.S. chapter of the Humane Society can sue the federal government over the way chickens and turkeys are slaughtered.
10/6/2006
Broiler Flow Slows
USDA reports decreases in the number of broiler eggs set in hatcheries and in the number of chicks placed on farms.
Industry News
10/27/2006
MD. Poultry Industry Feels Avian Flu Repercussions as Exports Fall Significantly
Incidences of avian flu in far-flung parts of the world have taken a large bite out of Maryland's biggest farm business, poultry production.
10/27/2006
National Turkey Federation Names Veteran Lobbyist to Head Organization
NTF Chairman Mike Briggs announced the appointment of Joel Brandenberger as the new NTF president, effective Dec. 1.
10/27/2006
US chicken industry must confront low prices-trade
U.S. chicken producers face a challenge: cut production or watch breast meat prices fall even further than the seven-year lows notched this week in the wholesale markets, analysts said.
10/20/2006
Pilgrim's Pride Gets Consents
Pilgrim's Pride Corporation announced this morning that, as of 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, it had received the requisite consents from holders of approximately 99% of the aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes to the proposed amendments to the Notes and the indenture under which the Notes were issued, in connection with its previously announced tender offer for any and all of Atlanta, Ga.-based Gold Kist Inc.'s outstanding 10-1/4% Senior Notes due March 15, 2014.
10/20/2006
An Interview with O.B. Goolsby Jr., CEO of Pilgrim's Pride: "We're waiting [for] the shareholders"
The chief executive of Pilgrim's Pride, in Atlanta Monday to meet with Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue, won't say if the Texas-based company will raise its bid to acquire Atlanta-based Gold Kist.
10/20/2006
Gold Kist Offer Fast Tracked
The antitrust waiting period has been terminated for Pilgrim's Pride's attempt to acquire Gold Kist.
10/20/2006
Grower Talks About Pilgrim's Pride Offer
A Gold Kist grower says he's not worried about the Pilgrim's Pride's attempt to buy Gold Kist.
10/13/2006
Russia to lift U.S. poultry import restrictions
Russia will lift restrictions on the import of poultry and eggs from the U.S. state of Maryland as of October 12, the Agriculture Ministry said Wednesday.
10/13/2006
Poultry processor Amick Farms sold to Illinois firm
Poultry processor Amick Farms, one of the Midlands' largest employers, has been sold to an Illinois meat distributor.
10/13/2006
Pilgrim's Pride Not Giving Up
Pilgrim's Pride is continuing efforts to acquire Gold Kist despite Gold Kist's announcement that it is rejecting the unsolicited offer.
10/6/2006
Gold Kist to open Florida plant expansion
(free registration required)
Atlanta-based chicken processor Gold Kist Inc. will officially open the expansion to its Live Oak, Fla., facility on Nov. 2.
10/6/2006
Sanderson Farms Proceeds With New Complex
Sanderson Farms says it will move forward with a new $70 million poultry processing plant in Texas.
10/6/2006
Experts: Poultry growth continues: Demand expected to level off in 2007
While U.S. consumers are expected to eat more poultry this year than in 2005, the demand is expected to level off in 2007, officials said.
Poultry News
10/20/2006
Hickman Named Chairman of National Chicken Council; Welch is Vice Chairman, Roberts Named Secretary-Treasurer
Mark Hickman, president and chief executive officer of Peco Foods, Inc., Tuscaloosa, Alabama, was installed today as Chairman of the National Chicken Council, the trade association for the chicken production and processing industry. Mike Welch, president and chief executive officer of Harrison Poultry, Bethlehem, Georgia, took office as Vice Chairman, and Michael Roberts, president of the Poultry Group of Perdue Farms, Inc., Salisbury, Maryland, became Secretary-Treasurer.
University News
10/6/2006
Environmental Poultry House Opened
Maryland University and engineering firm have teamed up for an innovative poultry house.
10/6/2006
Gold Kist endowment creates professorship at U.G.A.
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and Gold Kist Inc. announce the establishment of the Gold Kist Professorship in Poultry Science and Health. This endowed research position is being funded through a bequest from the late founder of Gold Kist, D.W. Brooks. The new professor will conduct research in avian disease and poultry health enhancement.
Avian Influenza News
9/29/2006
Study: Live H5N1 virus vaccines effective
U.S. scientists say live, weakened versions of differing strains of avian flu viruses have offered protection when tested in mice and ferrets.
9/29/2006
Scientists reveal how H5N1 kills
Scientists have discovered a potential reason to explain why the H5N1 strain of bird flu is so much more deadly to people than standard human flu.
9/29/2006
Joint USDA and DOI News Release: Avian Influenza Tests Complete on Wild Mallard Ducks in Pennsylvania
The U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Interior today announced final test results, which confirm that low pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus was found in samples collected last month from wild mallard ducks in Pennsylvania. This subtype has been detected several times in wild birds in North America and poses no risk to human health.
9/29/2006
Joint USDA and DOI Release: Montana Wild Bird Samples Undergo Additional Avian Influenza Testing
The U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Interior today announced a detection of the H5 and N1 avian influenza subtypes in samples from wild Northern pintail ducks in Montana. Initial tests confirm that these samples do not contain the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain that has spread through birds in Asia, Europe and Africa. These samples were collected from apparently healthy ducks and initial test results indicate the presence of low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) virus, which poses no threat to human health.
9/29/2006
UK flu data system launched
The largest flu monitoring system in Europe was launched by the Health Protection Agency at its annual conference last week.
9/29/2006
WHO takes bird flu as top health danger
Avian influenza remains the No. 1 danger for global public health, said Richard Nesbit, World Health Organization's Acting Regional Director for the Western Pacific, on Friday.
9/29/2006
Swiss measures aim to protect flocks from bird flu
Switzerland on Friday announced "targeted" preventive measures to protect its poultry against bird flu carried by migratory birds heading south to Africa.
9/29/2006
UK ministry orders bird flu vaccine for poultry
Britain's farm ministry said on Friday it had ordered 10 million doses of vaccine to protect poultry against bird flu, from Akzo Nobel unit Intervet.
9/29/2006
Scientists uncover why Spanish flu was so deadly
The 1918 Spanish flu that killed up to 50 million people worldwide caused a severe immune response which may help to explain why it was so deadly, American scientists said on Wednesday.
9/29/2006
U.S. tests Montana ducks for avian influenza strain
Federal laboratories will do more tests to determine the avian influenza strain found in some wild ducks in Montana but it does not appear to be the contagious strain feared worldwide, U.S. officials said on Thursday.
9/21/2006
World Bank: Bird Flu Could Cost $2 Trillion
A severe bird flu pandemic among humans could cost the global economy up to $2 trillion, the World Bank said on Sunday, sharply raising earlier estimates.
9/21/2006
Pacific nations urged to improve birdflu plans
The World Health Organization (WHO) urged small Pacific islands nations on Tuesday to do more to prepare emergency plans for a possible birdflu outbreak and human influenza pandemic, warning no nation could be immune.
9/15/2006
Avian Influenza Tests Complete on Maryland Resident Wild Mallard Ducks
The U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Interior today announced final test results, which confirm that an H5N1 avian influenza virus detected in fecal samples collected last month from resident wild mallard ducks in Maryland is a low pathogenic subtype. This strain has been detected several times in wild birds in North America and poses no threat to human health.
9/15/2006
Flu Viruses Hitch Rides on Jetliners
The sharp drop in air travel after the 9/11 attacks in 2001 slowed the spread of the 2001-2002 seasonal flu and delayed its peak by almost two weeks, according to researchers here.
9/15/2006
Commission gives green light for veterinary vaccines against avian flu
The European Commission has given Community-wide authorization to two avian influenza vaccines. This should ensure that effective vaccines are available for use throughout the EU during the autumn/winter, which is the period of greatest risk of a bird flu epidemic. There are no outbreaks of avian influenza in domestic or wild birds in the EU at the moment, but the risk of the disease will increase in the coming weeks as the autumn migration period begins. Both of the vaccines which have been approved reduce mortality and virus excretion in vaccinated chickens exposed to infection. The two vaccines concerned, Nobilis Influenza H5N2[1] and Poulvac FluFend H5N3 RG[2], are inactivated, adjuvanted avian influenza vaccines for administration by injection. Nobilis Influenza H5N2 is for use in chickens and Poulvac FluFend H5N3 RG is for use in both chickens and Pekin ducks.
9/15/2006
Improved test can detect avian or seasonal flu
An updated diagnostic test can simultaneously detect whether someone is suffering from an H5 strain of bird flu or seasonal influenza, its developer said on Tuesday.
9/15/2006
Russia bans poultry imports from two US states over avian flu
Russia banned as of Friday all poultry meat and products, eggs and live bird imports from the U.S. states of Maryland and Pennsylvania due to outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian flu, Russia's Agriculture Ministry said Monday
9/8/2006
Low Pathogen Bird Flu found in Wild Ducks in Maryland
The U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Interior has announced that the presence of the H5N1 avian influenza subtype has been detected in fecal samples from wild birds in Maryland.
9/8/2006
Low-risk H5N1 bird flu found in Pennsylvania ducks
Mallard ducks in Pennsylvania have tested positive for a low-pathogenic strain of the H5N1 bird flu virus, the U.S. Agriculture and Interior departments said on Saturday, adding to cases detected recently in Maryland and Michigan.
9/8/2006
Bird Flu's Spread Tracked With Satellite-Linked Swans
Swans fitted with the same global positioning system satellite transmitters used to navigate cars may help scientists better understand the role wild birds play in the spread of avian influenza
9/8/2006
AI-Prevention program upgraded
A new sampling campaign is to start in Africa this month in a bid to check the progress of potential avian influenza outbreaks across the continent. The move follows concerns that the disease could spread across Africa through migratory birds and also through illegal trade circuits.
9/8/2006
100 million doses of flu vaccine this year, U.S. says
More than 100 million doses of influenza vaccine, the largest number ever shipped, will be available for the U.S. market this flu season, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday.
9/1/2006
Avian influenza tests complete on Michigan mute swans
The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced final test results, which confirm that an H5N1 avian influenza virus detected in samples collected earlier this month from two Michigan wild mute swans is a low pathogenic subtype. This strain has been detected several times in wild birds in North America and poses no threat to human health.
9/1/2006
New global group launches bird flu data sharing campaign
(free registration required)
A group of 70 scientists and health experts last week formed a group to share genetic data on avian influenza infections in hopes of better tracking mutations.
9/1/2006
Avian Flu Detection Information On Wild Birds Available
Scientists are now using the newly developed database and Web application called HEDDS (HPAI Early Detection Data System) to share information on sample collection sites, bird species sampled, and test results.
9/1/2006
Quicker avian flu diagnosis developed
U.S. scientists report developing a microchip that cuts the time needed for a detailed diagnosis of avian flu from a week or more to fewer than 12 hours.
Education News
9/21/2006
Bernie Wentworth Will Receive CALS Distinguished Service Award
Although avian physiologist Bernie Wentworth retired from the UW-Madison College of Agricultural Sciences in 2005, the legacy of his research and instructional programs will guide his department for years to come. In recognition of his 35 years of distinguished research, teaching, administrative service and outreach, the College is honoring Wentworth with its Distinguished Service Award.
9/21/2006
Fall Fashion Guide: The Chicken Feather Suit
Chicken feathers and rice straw could become commonplace in clothing in the future, scientists report.
Egg News
9/8/2006
Scientists hatch plans for eggs with harder shells
Scientists have finally cracked one of the culinary world's greatest conundrums — how to get eggs from the chicken coop to the kitchen table in one piece.
Government News
9/29/2006
USDA Expands The National Poultry Improvement Program
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced an interim rule that expands the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP), a voluntary cooperative federal, state and industry program designed to prevent the spread of poultry diseases in commercial poultry operations. The expansion of the program is in harmony with international animal health guidelines.
9/15/2006
Animal Products Markets in 2005 and Forecast for 2006
Uncertainty continues to shape the forecasts for animal products markets in 2006. Potential and actual animal disease outbreaks, consumer sensitivities, volatile exchange rates, and growing competition from producers in other countries cloud U.S. trade prospects for major meats. Loss of U.S. trade market share, partly caused by disease outbreaks and related trade restrictions that have affected animal product exports since 2003, compounds the problem. The outlook for U.S. meat, poultry, and dairy markets in 2006 depends on how well domestic production adjusts to changes in input costs, the effect of exchange rates on trade, the continuing effects of disease and trade restrictions on exports, and the increasing competitiveness of emerging animal products exporters.
Industry News
9/29/2006
Pilgrim's Pride launching hostile bid for Gold Kist
(free registration required)
Pittsburg, Texas-based Pilgrim's Pride Corp. is initiating a $1 billion hostile takeover offer for Atlanta-based Gold Kist Inc.
9/29/2006
Gold Kist Responds to Pilgrim's Pride Offer
Gold Kist issued a statement late yesterday responding to Pilgrim's Pride's latest attempt at a hostile takeover. The Atlanta, Ga.-based Gold Kist says it has requested that stockholders take no action at this time.
9/29/2006
Pilgrim's makes $1 bln hostile bid for Gold Kist
Pilgrim's Pride Corp. said on Thursday it would launch a hostile $1 billion takeover offer for poultry producer Gold Kist Inc. after failing to agree on a deal with Gold Kist's management.
9/21/2006
Global Uncertainty In Animal Markets Clouds US Trade Prospects
Potential and actual animal disease outbreaks, consumer sensitivities, volatile exchange rates, and growing competition from producers in other countries cloud U.S. trade prospects for major meats. Loss of U.S. trade market share, partly caused by disease outbreaks and related trade restrictions that have affected animal product exports since 2003, compounds the problem.
9/21/2006
Chicken Prices in India Reach All Time Low
The price of a dressed chicken has touched an all-time low as it is quoted at Rs 38 a kg in the retail market. In the wholesale it was between Rs 32 and Rs 35 a kg. Interestingly, the minimum price of ladoos in the region is Rs 45 per kg.
9/21/2006
Perdue partners with EPA on water-protection program
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Salisbury, Md.-based poultry processor Perdue Farms and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency signed an agreement Wednesday that will set up a program to minimize the environmental impact that poultry farms have on the Chesapeake Bay and coastal bays around the Delmarva peninsula.
9/21/2006
Gold Kist introduces new antibiotic-free, air-chilled chicken products
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In response to the natural protein trend, Atlanta-based chicken processor Gold Kist Inc. unveiled a new line of chicken products raised without antibiotics.
9/21/2006
John Tyson recognized for corporate citizenship
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Officials with the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars of the Smithsonian Institution will honor John Tyson, chairman of Springdale, Ark.-based Tyson Foods, Inc., with its Woodrow Wilson Award for Corporate Citizenship at a benefit dinner this evening.
9/21/2006
Russia bans poultry imports from three U.S. plants
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The Russian Federal Veterinary and Phytosanitary Control Service (Rosselkhoznadzor) has banned imports of poultry meat from three U.S. plants, the Agriculture Ministry said in a release.
9/21/2006
E.U. Tightens Food Safety
The European Commission has adopted a program that will provide better training for food-safety officials in order to make food safer
9/15/2006
Gold Kist gets high-powered help for possible proxy battle
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Atlanta-based poultry processor Gold Kist has retained Gleacher Partners, a powerful Wall Street firm with poultry expertise and Atlanta connections, to help it prepare for a possible proxy battle with Pilgrim's Pride, the Pittsburg, Texas-based processor trying to acquire it.
9/15/2006
Tyson Plant Reaches Safety Milestone
The Tyson Foods-owned River Valley Animal Foods (RVAF) plant in Robards, Kentucky, has operated five years -- one million man-hours -- without an accident resulting in a lost day from work. The plant, which converts poultry byproducts into ingredients for pet food, is the first byproduct rendering facility to ever achieve such a safety record within Tyson Foods.
9/8/2006
Poultry war threat to pecking order of US food producers
Pilgrim's Pride, the second-largest US poultry producer, made a $1.02bn hostile bid last week for Gold Kist, the third-largest producer, in a move that could have developed into a game of chicken.
9/8/2006
U.S. Broiler expansion continues
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agriculture Statistics Service (NASS) reports that one percent more broiler eggs were set in U.S. hatcheries and two percent more broiler chicks were placed on U.S. farms in the19-state broiler-producing region during the week ending September 2, 2006
9/8/2006
Tyson reveals "Thrive not just survive" strategy
Meat-processing giant Tyson's Foods, Springdale, Ark., will sell more of its products through distribution channels, Tyson's chief executive officer Richard Bond told attendees yesterday at the Prudential Equity Group's Annual Back-to-School Consumer Conference in Boston, Mass.
9/1/2006
U.S. Poultry Output Higher
U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) reported U.S. processors produced 3.36 billion pounds of ready-to-cook poultry – chicken, turkey, and duck – in July – a two percent increase compared to the amount output in July 2005. The poultry output for June 2006 was 3.67 billion pounds.
University News
9/15/2006
Susan Ranck First Graduate of On-Line Masters Degree Program
Susan Ranck of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is the first student to complete the On-Line Master of Agriculture degree program in the Texas A&M University Poultry Science Department.
Avian Influenza News
8/25/2006
Scientists propose sharing genetic data on bird flu
Leading scientists called on Thursday for the establishment of a global consortium to share genetic data from bird flu cases, deemed vital for tracking mutations and developing a vaccine against a human pandemic.
8/25/2006
Avian flu detection information on wild birds available
The public can now view a Web site showing current information about wild bird sampling for early detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the United States: http://wildlifedisease.nbii.gov/ai/.
8/25/2006
Interim Guidance for States Conducting Avian Mortality Surveillance for West Nile Virus (WNV) and/or Highly Pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus
Surveillance of dead birds for WNV has proven useful for the early detection of WNV in the United States. In recent months, it has also proven useful for the early detection of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza A (HPAI H5N1, hereafter referred to as H5N1 virus) in Europe. Given the potential for H5N1 to infect wild birds in North America in the future, the following interim guidance is offered to support the efforts of states conducting avian mortality surveillance.
8/25/2006
AVIAN INFLUENZA Low Pathogenic H5N1 vs. Highly Pathogenic H5N1
There are two types of avian influenza (AI) that are identified as H5N1. A difference exists in the virus classification; one is low pathogenic (LPAI) and the other is highly pathogenic (HPAI). Pathogenicity refers to the ability of the virus to produce disease.
8/25/2006
Dutch order poultry indoors to prevent bird flu
The Dutch Agriculture Ministry ordered farmers on Tuesday to keep their poultry indoors from Sept. 1 to protect flocks from the threat of avian flu from migrating birds.
8/18/2006
2 Michigan Swans Seem Infected With Nonlethal Avian Flu Strain
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Two swans in Michigan appear to have been infected with an avian flu of the A(H5N1) type, government agricultural officials announced yesterday, but the virus is not the same lethal strain that has killed millions of birds and 139 people in Asia and the Middle East.
8/18/2006
Michigan Finding No Problem for Commercial Poultry Producers
The finding of a low-pathogenic, North American subtype of avian influenza in wild birds in Michigan creates no problems for commercial poultry operations or consumers, according to the National Chicken Council.
8/18/2006
Two Sources Blamed for New AI Outbreak
Endemic and new subtypes of the avian influenza virus are to blame for the disease's recurrence in Asia, according to a U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report. Laboratory confirmation points to both the old and new isolates of the virus as sources of recent cases of high-pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in southeast Asia.
8/11/2006
Bird flu virus blueprints go public
Scientists at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control have placed the genetic blueprints of about 40 H5N1 viruses isolated from human bird flu cases in Indonesia into one public access database.
Feed News
8/11/2006
Cocofeed Fed Chickens Now Shipping
Tropical Traditions is now shipping its pastured chickens raised outdoors on pasture and Cocofeed. The first chicks were raised by Amish farmers in western Wisconsin in May of this year.
8/11/2006
Researchers Investigate Hops for Poultry
University of Arkansas poultry scientists Dr. Susan Watkins and Dr. Park Waldroup have reported that hops, an herb used to impart a bitter taste in beer, can be an effective substitute for growth-promoting antibiotics in broilers.
Industry News
8/25/2006
Organic Poultry Plant Opens
Elite Foods LLC, Marshville, N.C., an organic turkey and chicken company, has opened a state-of-the-art poultry processing plant in Troy, N.C. The 38,000-square-foot plant will produce Alison's Family Farms line of all-natural poultry products.
8/25/2006
Gold Kist to review Pilgrim's Pride offer
Gold Kist Inc. on Monday said its board will carefully examine the latest takeover bid from Pilgrim's Pride Corp., but was "surprised and disappointed" that Pilgrim's decided to make the unsolicited offer public after six months of quiet talks.
8/25/2006
LIVESTOCK, DAIRY, AND POULTRY OUTLOOK
The August issue of LIVESTOCK, DAIRY, AND POULTRY OUTLOOK with forecast tables is now available
8/21/2006
Pilgrim's Pride makes bid for Gold Kist
8/18/2006
More Turkeys in the Pipeline
According to the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Agriculture Statistics Service data, more turkeys will be available to consumers during the upcoming Christmas and New Year holiday periods.
8/18/2006
New Zealanders Want Fresh Chicken
Sales of fresh chicken remain high despite reports that an unusually large portion of the product is contaminated with bacteria.
8/18/2006
Gold Kist Awards Scholarships
The Gold Kist Foundation awarded $1,000 college scholarships to 15 children of Gold Kist chicken producers and employees.
8/11/2006
Gold Kist swings to loss in third quarter
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Citing a broiler glut and depressed export prices, Gold Kist Inc. swung to a loss in its fiscal third quarter.
8/11/2006
Foster Farms closes Oregon plant
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Foster Farms will close its Creswell, Ore., plant within the next two months to move its Northwest processing operations to Washington state.
8/11/2006
U.S. seeks to ease rules on Canadian pork, poultry
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8/11/2006
California seeks help for poultry producers
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger promised the state's poultry producers that he will seek federal assistance to offset losses in eight San Joaquin Valley counties from the historic heat wave that killed thousands of chickens and turkeys.
8/4/2006
Poultry companies dismissed from arsenic lawsuit
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Six poultry companies were removed from a lawsuit alleging that arsenic use as a feed additive resulted in cancer among individuals in Prairie Grove, Ark.
Circuit Judge Kim Smith ruled Wednesday that plaintiffs Michael "Blu" Green and his parents could not illustrate distinct amounts of arsenic exposure. Green suffered leukemia as child.
Smith said that the plaintiffs showed no relationship between illnesses and individual companies.
Tyson Foods Inc., Simmons Foods, Simmons Poultry Farms, George's Farms, George's Processing and Peterson Farms were dismissed from the case.
The maker and distributor of the feed additive, Alpharma and Alpharma Animal Health, will go to trial on Sept. 5 as the remaining defendants.
Other Organizations' News
8/11/2006
News from the American Egg Board
Avian Influenza News
7/31/2006
Control of Avian Influenza in Poultry
Avian influenza, listed by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), has become a disease of great importance for animal and human health. Several aspects of the disease lack scientific information, which has hampered the management of some recent crises. Millions of animals have died, and concern is growing over the loss of human lives and management of the pandemic potential. On the basis of data generated in recent outbreaks and in light of new OIE regulations and maintenance of animal welfare, we review the available control methods for avian influenza infections in poultry, from stamping out to prevention through emergency and prophylactic vaccination.
7/31/2006
Glaxo has bird flu 'breakthrough'
UK drugs firm GlaxoSmithKline believes it has developed a vaccine for the H5N1 deadly strain of bird flu that may be capable of being mass produced by 2007.
7/31/2006
Lack of coordination hitting bird flu fight – WHO
Lack of cooperation between health and farm officials in developing countries is hampering the fight against bird flu, the World Health Organization said on Friday.
7/31/2006
Wild Birds Can Spread Bird Flu to People
Study of Iowa Hunters Shows Wild Birds Can Spread a Non-Threatening Kind of Bird Flu
Government News
7/31/2006
USDA OFFERS GUIDE TO HELP AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS PROTECT THE U.S. FOOD SUPPLY
The U.S. Department of Agriculture today released a guide entitled "Pre-Harvest Security Guidelines and Checklist 2006" to help agricultural producers enhance security at the farm level.
University News
7/31/2006
Michigan Lab on Path to New Marek's Disease Vaccine
Experimental versions of the first genetically engineered Marek's disease vaccine for poultry are being developed by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists in Michigan.
