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IN THIS ISSUE

VOL. 71 | NO. 2 | JANUARY 15, 2024

On the cover

January 15, 2024

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Viewpoints “Poultry farmers know that healthy birds to produce eggs and meat cannot be raised without vitamins, particularly B12, which are present in poultry diets.” — Constance Cullman | 10

News

Features

7 | ERS: Increases in current U.S. corn export amounts

9 | Poultry industry looks back on 2023 successes

8 | AFIA applauds House intro of the Innovative FEED Act

Business 12 | Aviagen opens 9th US hatchery

Calendar JANUARY JAN 29 - FEB. 1 — NPFDA ANNUAL CONVENTION & SHOWCASE, Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Atlanta, Ga. Contact: National Protein & Food Distributors Association, 2014 Osborne Road, Saint Marys, Ga. 31558; Ph: 912-4393603; www.npfda.org. JAN 30 - FEB. 1 — IPPE (INTERNATIONAL PRODUC-

21 | Special discount offered to poultry growers to attend this year’s IPPE 21 | Free bus service offered from field operations to 2024 IPPE 22 | International Rendering Symposium to explore impact on biofuel and animal food production

24 | Purdue Beef Basics program to highlight key topics for the beef cattle industry

TION & PROCESSING EXPO), Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Ga. Contact: USPOULTRY, 1530 Cooledge Rd., Tucker, Ga. 30084; Ph: 770-493-9401; info@ippexpo. org; www.ippexpo.org. MAR 12-14 — 2024 PURCHASING and INGREDIENT SUPPLIERS CONFERENCE, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, Orlando, Fla. Contact: American Feed Industry Association, 2101 Wilson Blvd., Suite 810, Arlington, Va. 22201. Ph: 703524-0810; www.afia.org. POULTRY TIMES

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ERS: Increases in current U.S. corn export amounts DAVID B. STRICKLAND

PT Poultry Times Editor dstrickland@poultrytimes.com WASHINGTON — The production of U.S. feed grain for 2023/2024 was estimated in December at 400 million metric tons by the USDA’s Economic Research Service in its most recent “Feed Outlook” report. The total feed grain supply was forecast at 439.4 million metric tons. “Strong corn exports and healthy outstanding sales, particularly for Mexico, contribute to a 25-million-bushel increase in the 2023/24 U.S. corn export forecast,” ERS said. “The corn and sorghum season-average prices received by farmers remain unchanged; however, barley and oats prices are raised to align with reported prices to date.” ERS added that U.S. corn production reported in December was at 15.2 billion bushels, with noted stronger than expected yields reported by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. The department added that as farmers wrapped up their year-end harvests, the January estimates will give a clearer look at 2024’s production. However, “the 2023/24 corn supply forecast remains unchanged at 16.6 billion bushels (in December), as accumulated corn imports suggest that the United States is poised to hit the current forecast of 25 million bushels.” The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service reported in late November that U.S. corn export commitments were just above 1 billion bushels. “This number is nearly 300 million bushels higher than the same time last year and is largely driven by heavy corn purchasing from Mexico,” ERS said.“Mexico’s 2023/24 corn production forecast is lowered by 1 million metric tons on lower area. Although higher beginning stocks help alleviate the cut to the overall Mexican corn supply, it is not enough to completely offset such a loss — particularly on the heels of growing Mexican red meat and poultry production.” This had led Mexico to increase its imports of U.S. corn, the department added. “In fact, U.S. corn exports to Mexico jumped 20 million bushels in October from the previous month, accounting for nearly 64 percent of the October U.S. corn trade,” the report noted. In continuing its look at U.S. corn exports, ERS said that November shipments will be greater than October amounts. “U.S. corn export sales to Mexico were 55 percent higher in November than October,” the report said. “Moreover, FAS reported that out-

COVER STORY

standing sales of U.S. corn to Mexico grew by 9.4 percent over the last month. Thus, despite the growing corn demand by Mexico, November will represent the first month of the 2023/24 marketing year in which more than 50 percent of outstanding U.S. corn sales are not claimed by Mexico. In short, this number signals strong demand in the 2023/24 marketing year for U.S. corn exports. These factors support the 25-million-bushel increase in the 2023/24 corn export forecast to 2.1 billion bushels. This change is reflected in the ending stocks projection, which is lowered to 2.13 billion bushels.” • Ukraine The corn trade for December was estimated by ERS to be 1.7 million tons higher and to equal about 199.1 million tons. “Ukraine corn exports are projected 1 million tons higher (in December) to reach 21 million, still the lowest export volume since 2017/18 (when corn output was 24 million tons),” the report noted. “Corn supplies are projected higher (in December) in Ukraine, as improved POULTRY TIMES

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corn yields expand production by 1 million tons to 30.5 million.” ERS added that Ukraine is highly focused on exports and that its grains and oilseeds are mainly produced to be shipped out. “Typically, domestic consumption of corn in Ukraine is less than 20 percent of its supplies, and given current wartime conditions, that percentage has fallen to 16.5 percent,” the department said. “Under normal circumstances, Ukraine also does not stock much grain. However, corn stocks increase when the country’s ability to export grain is hindered. Given the level of current Ukrainian corn supplies, the country could have exported even more corn as its prices continue to be very competitive, if not for Russian military actions impeding exports out of the Black Sea.” ERS also noted that for the U.S., estimated corn exports during the October to September 2023/24 trade year are forecast at 54 million metric tons.

AFIA applauds House intro of the Innovative FEED Act ARLINGTON, Va. — The American Feed Industry Association appreciates Representatives Greg Pence (R-Ind.), Jim Baird (R-Ind.), Kim Schrier (D-Wash.), and Angie Craig (D- Minn.) for leading the introduction of a key piece of legislation that will improve the regulatory environment for new animal feed ingredients. The Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (Innovative FEED) Act will amend the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to establish a regulatory pathway for a new category of animal food substances that act solely within animals’ gut microbiomes or in the feed they are digesting to provide a wide range of benefits, giving the U.S. Food and Drug Administration the power it needs to ensure regulations keep pace with scientific innovation in feed. Upon introduction of the bill, AFIA President and CEO Constance Cullman said, “The AFIA is excited that the Senate has already introduced the Innovative FEED Act and now, with the House introduction, the bill has the bipartisan and bicameral support we hoped for. Now, we urge Congress to act quickly on the bill. The legislation will be the spark needed to drive nutritional innovation that improves animal health and production while addressing public health challenges. We need this modernized regulatory oversight instead of the current policy of overregulation. Any delay in enacting this legislation continues to put U.S. agriculture at a disadvantage compared to our global counterparts whose regulatory systems have evolved with the times.” The AFIA has urged the FDA to modernize its outdated 1998 Policy and Procedures Manual Guide 1240.3605, which has hindered animal food manufacturers from clearly indicating non-nutritive benefits on labels without navigating the FDA’s arduous drug approval process. Dozens of countries have already safely approved and started using these feed ingredients on farms, resulting in improved animal production, well-being, reduced pre-harvest food safety concerns, and a smaller

environmental footprint. The Innovative FEED Act will bring about the necessary changes to ensure these additives are reviewed for safety and effectiveness as food additives, not drugs, and can more quickly come to market for U.S. farmers and ranchers to choose to use.

deepen stakeholders’ understanding of AFIA’s legislative, regulatory and trade policy positions. In addition, Wyman will prepare grassroots advocacy campaigns on domestic and international policy issues and support the association’s media requests and crisis communications activities. “The AFIA serves as the voice of the U.S. animal food industry, communicating key policy goals to members of Congress, regulatory agencies, White House officials, international delegations, and more,” said Victoria Broehm, AFIA’s senior director of communications. “With Madison’s rich experience in government affairs and conducting multimedia communications campaigns, we know she will help us take our policy communications and grassroots advocacy efforts to the next level.” Hailing from Beaufort, S.C., Wyman holds a dual bachelor of arts degree in politics and international affairs and communication studies from Furman University, where she graduated in May. During her time at the university, she worked as the advance team lead in the Riley Institute, serving as a student ambassador, interacting with local and national leaders and organizing public policy discussions and events. She also participated in a research and communications fellowship program with The Roots Routes in Bangkok, Thailand, over the summer and has internship experience with various government affairs and communications firms. Daisy Rodriguez has been promoted to manager of meetings and events at the AFIA. She has been with the organization for four years and has demonstrated outstanding skill and customer service as part of the meetings and events team. She has taken on additional responsibilities relating to supporting AFIA’s Board of Directors recently and will be

PISC registration is open AFIA has opened registration for its 2024 Purchasing and Ingredient Suppliers Conference (PISC), happening on March 12-14 in San Antonio, Texas. This three-day, must-attend program includes education and networking events for hundreds of feed ingredient buyers and sellers across the animal food manufacturing industry. “We are thrilled to bring PISC to San Antonio this year and continue to be the place where business gets done,” said Jessica Morse, AFIA’s director of meetings and events. “PISC 2024 promises to offer even more networking opportunities and relationship building between suppliers and customers.” In addition to the networking events, conference attendees will hear presentations on myriad topics, including decoding the consumer’s journey: meat purchasing in a changing landscape, transportation logistics, California’s proposition 12, navigating the people puzzle, and forecasting the grain and economic outlooks. Registration is $775 for AFIA members and $2,550 for nonmembers. Through the Buyers to PISC program, AFIA member-company professionals in buying roles who normally would not be able to attend the event are invited to apply for a conference scholarship. For more information, or to register, visit https://www.afia.org/events/ pisc-2024/fees/.

Staff changes AFIA has also announced the addition of Madison Wyman as its policy communications specialist. In this newly created position, Wyman will collaborate with AFIA’s policy team to communicate to and POULTRY TIMES

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expanding her role with the team. “Daisy consistently provides outstanding customer service to AFIA members registering for and attending AFIA events and programs and has shown herself to a be a team player who is always willing to support and collaborate with her colleagues,” Morse said.“I look forward to working with her in her expanded role.” Prior to joining the AFIA in August 2019, Rodriguez provided administrative and event support for VersaTel Solutions, the Laurel Ridge Elementary School Parent Teacher Association, Time Warner Cable and the law office of Shapiro and Burson. Rodriguez holds a bachelor’s degree in government and politics and a paralegal certificate from George Mason University. The association also notes the addition of Taylor Lekin as its marketing and program development coordinator. In this newly created position, Lekin will play a pivotal role in marketing AFIA’s educational and networking events as well as the overall value of AFIA membership. In addition, Lekin will work closely with the executive director of the Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER), AFIA’s 501(c) (3) public charity, on an ambitious branding campaign to communicate the need for industry leaders and stakeholders to invest in the future of the animal food industry. “Taylor exudes positive energy and a passion for helping the agriculture industry thrive, and I know she will bring creative new ideas to engage AFIA members at events and through our programs,” Broehm said. “With her background working for a foundation and analyzing complex agricultural research and policy, I have no doubt she will be an asset to IFEEDER as it embarks on an ambitious communications strategy to reach donors, potential donors and external stakeholders in the new year.” Lekin is a recent Iowa State University graduate with a degree in agriculture and rural policy studies. She grew up raising cattle with her brother, and her family owns and operates Tama Livestock Auction. She has experience working as a writer for ISU’s Foundation and at the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, as well as has been active in her sorority and participated in the CALS Dean’s Leader-

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Poultry industry looks back on 2023 successes BY ELIZABETH BOBENHAUSEN

Times staff PT Poultry ebobenhausen@poultrytimes.com

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — The year 2023 has come to an end and the National Chicken Council looks back on having a great year. In NCC’s “Washington Report,” the organization said “these qualities also position chicken as an essential, high-quality protein that can help end hunger in our nation and world. In fact, the meat and poultry category is one of the most purchased and consumed food items by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households, and proteins like chicken are one of the top three most requested items at food banks.” The NCC describes how good chicken is to include in an individual’s diet. Chicken is good for the brain because it provides needed vitamins ship Study Abroad program.

Equipment Manufacturers Conference More than 60 industry professionals and 28 spouses gathered in Tucson, Ariz., in November to participate in the AFIA’s annual Equipment Manufacturers Conference. Hosted by AFIA’s Equipment Manufacturers Committee, this year’s conference focused on labor and supply chain issues in the feed industry. “This year’s conference was

and minerals for it to function properly. The NCC adds, “dark and white meat chicken contains vitamin B12 and choline, which together may promote brain development in children, help the nervous system function properly and aid cognitive performance in older adults.” Chicken can be helpful when a person is attempting to improve their mood. The NCC says, “chicken has tryptophan, an amino acid that is responsible for raising serotonin levels in your brain. Serotonin is the ‘feel-good’ neurochemical linked with mood.” Just like dairy, chicken provides support to strengthen bone health. The NCC added that, “Chicken is a source of dietary protein. Protein can benefit bone health.” Along with strengthening a person’s bones, chicken is also good for developing muscles. “Chicken is a source of high-quality dietary protein. 30 grams of protein per meal could

tage, a new university scholarship model, ways to market a company to recruit new and retain current employees, discussions … industry, and more. The AFIA Equipment Manufacturers Committee raises additional funds for a scholarship fundraiser through a golf putting contest and a raffle at the group dinner. This year, donations via golf, raffle, donations from Hayes & Stolz in honor of Dale Presnell, and a donation from Johnny Wheat of 4B Components, Ltd., raised a total of $8,950 to support

one of the best ever! It was held at a great location, fostered excellent networking and featured a tremendous agenda of excellent speakers and topics,” said Gary Huddleston, AFIA’s director of feed manufacturing and regulatory affairs. The conference included sessions on how AFIA members can use lessons from the pandemic to help manage their businesses for the future and more. It also offered attendees an opportunity to hear about how they can use immigration laws to their advanPOULTRY TIMES

benefit muscle growth.” Chicken is good for heart health, the council noted, adding that, “Chicken provides under-consumed vitamins and minerals and can be center of the plate for a heart-healthy, low-fat, low-cholesterol diet, such as the DASH diet.” Now that it is the beginning of a new year and people are looking into maybe changing their diets. Eating chicken is also recommended for someone trying to lose weight. “Lean chicken meat is an excellent source of protein that the body can use easily,” NCC said. “Foods high in protein may be a tool for managing weight and a normal blood sugar.” Chicken is also good for many people that need support in chewing, swallowing or have taste changes. The NCC says, “For those who struggle with chewing or swallowing foods, or with changes in taste, chicken is a versatile source of highquality protein.” The organization, in its Chicken Check-In blog, also reported how the industry helped feed many people around the world this year by providing an estimated 123,230,600 meals, 40,630,000 pounds of protein and $81,112,000 in funding. The NCC also provided efforts to educate about biosecurity and preservation of the birds’ health. Despite struggles such as avian influenza, the poultry industry noted a good year. The USDA, in a recent Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook report, provided many industry statistics, including: • Projected broiler production is adjusted up for the fourth quarter of 2023 based on strong production in October but adjusted down in the first quarter of 2024 based on recent hatchery data. • Both broiler exports and imports were adjusted up slightly in 2023 on recent data. • Broiler prices are adjusted down 1 cent in the fourth quarter of 2023 on recent prices but are unchanged for next year. • Total table egg production in 2023 is unchanged, while 2024 production is decreased slightly. • Wholesale prices for eggs are adjusted down for the fourth quarter of 2023 on recent data. Expectations for both imports and exports of eggs and egg products in 2023 are increased slightly on recent data.

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the scholarship fund. The AFIA congratulated the first-place team of this year’s golf tournament: Paul Allen, of AgriIndustrial Division, Jason Hoekstra of EPL Feed LLC, Joe Natale of Premier Tech Systèmes Automatisés and Johnny Wheat of 4B Components, Ltd. The AFIA also congratulated the overall winner of the putting contest: Jonathen Cowles of WL Port-Land Systems Inc. The 2024 EMC will take place Nov. 6-8. For the latest AFIA event schedule, visit www.afia.org/ events.

VIEWPOINT

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Navigating 2024: Reflections, resolutions and resilience in the animal feed industry POULTRY TIMES

COMMENTARY BY Constance Cullman American Feed Industry Association Constance Cullman is president and CEO of the American Feed Industry Association headquartered in Arlington, Va.

ARLINGTON, Va. — Each new year brings a paradox of thought, one that is reflective of the year gone by, and one hopeful for the year to come. While this unique dichotomy often leads to lofty and fleeting personal New Year’s resolutions, it can serve a critical purpose for business leaders looking to reset their strategies to meet their goals. At the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), our resolution to make the world healthier through advanced animal nutrition never falters. However, we continue to face hurdles on the legislative, regulatory and trade fronts. These hurdles make it more challenging for animal food manufacturers to deliver on that goal with the products their farmer customers need in a cost-effective, timely and reliable way. One such example of this is with the regulation of animal food additives that do not impact animal nutrition, but rather, act within an animal’s gut to bring about positive health, production, sustainability, and food safety benefits. One example is extracellular enzymes aiding in feed digestion and reducing waste in poultry production. Since 1998, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has deemed these ingredients “drugs” versus “foods,” subjecting them to years of bureaucratic red tape, causing our country to lag farmers in Europe, Brazil, Australia and elsewhere who are already using animal food additives on farms to produce economic and environmental results. POULTRY TIMES

“Poultry farmers know that healthy birds to produce eggs and meat cannot be raised without vitamins, particularly B12, which are present in poultry diets.”

Over the past few years, momentum has built within the FDA to modernize its regulatory process, but the agency has said it needs congressional authority to act. On Capitol Hill sits the solution: the Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (Innovative FEED) Act (S. 1842/H.R. 6687). Introduced last year, this bill would fix the FDA’s outdated regulatory process by more appropriately regulating these ingredients as feed ingredients so they can get to the marketplace. Though the bill enjoys some bipartisan, bicameral support, lawmakers need to hear from the agricultural community on POULTRYTIMES.COM

the reasons why they should support this bill and keep it moving forward. With the FDA setting its sights on revamping its food safety program this year and the Biden administration focused on reducing food insecurity and U.S. methane emissions, we must leverage the opportunity the year brings before talks of the election cloud substantive work in Congress. The AFIA will focus its efforts on maintaining pressure on lawmakers to move this important legislation through the much-needed farm bill, FDA appropriations or another moving legislative vehicle, and poultry farmers are encour-

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aged to join us in this effort by writing their members of Congress and encouraging passage of the Innovative FEED Act. On another front, the industry continues to do all it can to reduce animal disease risks and enhance the country’s preparedness and response efforts. With highly pathogenic avian influenza circulating, our feed mills have doubled their biosecurity efforts, and we are taking lessons learned from other research on animal disease spread at mills to improve those efforts even more. Specifically, this year, the AFIA supports $8 billion in the mandatory farm bill research title to spur scientific breakthroughs and agricultural research that can keep animal diseases at bay. We also continue to support farm bill language that would direct the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to consult with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and FDA on the agricultural applications for the use of formaldehyde, a tool safely used for decades in the animal food industry to reduce animal disease and food safety risks. Without these tools, the animal agriculture industry will become even more vulnerable — not a place we want to be when hunger is a pressing problem across our communities. Our industry also continues to express concerns about how the ongoing domestic and international supply chain disruptions, worsened by recent geopolitical tensions across Europe and the Middle East, are raising production costs and, ultimately, impacting farmers’ ability to bring affordable food to the marketplace. To stay ahead of potential challenges, last year, the AFIA started discussions with the Biden administration over the U.S. animal agriculture’s dependency on China for essential vitamins. Currently, a staggering 94 percent of vitamin B6 and over 91 percent of vitamin C is imported from China, and over 78 percent of all U.S. vitamin imports come from the Asian giant. Equally concerning for our members is the lack of alternative suppliers. Poultry farmers know that

healthy birds to produce eggs and meat cannot be raised without vitamins, particularly B12, which are present in poultry diets. And, as consumers turn to more chicken and eggs for affordable and nutritious protein for their families, we must do all we can to support the resiliency of our food supply. The animal food industry has delicately been sounding the alarm to the Biden administration on the need to vary POULTRY TIMES

the United States’ sources of vitamins. Potential solutions include, but are not limited to, investing in domestic vitamin production, engaging in publicprivate partnerships, or exploring other countries’ vitamin production capabilities. With our members, the AFIA continues to communicate this message in meetings with representatives from the USDA, the U.S. Trade Representative, and other interagency supply chain task 11

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forces, and encourages poultry farmers to leverage in-district meetings with their legislators this year to put this critical issue on their radars. The AFIA is already off to a running start on these and many other to-do’s this year. While we know we have mountains to climb, our resolve to make the world a healthier place through animal nutrition remains steadfast.

BUSINESS

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Aviagen opens 9th US hatchery POULTRY TIMES

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Aligned with an ongoing commitment to food security in the U.S. and worldwide, Aviagen® announces the inauguration of a state-of-theart poultry hatchery in Longview, Texas, and has already seen a successful first Parent Stock shipment. This marks Aviagen’s ninth hatchery in the United States and first in the state of Texas. The global breeding company celebrated the hatchery’s grand opening with a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony, joined by state and local officials. Representing a substantial investment, the new facility reflects a major commitment to food security and economic growth, as well as bird welfare and sustainability, the company said, adding that it will make a positive impact on the poultry supply chain, with the capacity to set 1.1 million eggs per week, and will bring new employment opportunities to the area. The location was chosen after careful consideration, taking into account its secure isolation from other bird populations, proximity to regional and international airports, and the availability of a high-quality workforce, Aviagen noted. The facility is equipped with innovative features designed to ensure strict biosecurity measures, and optimal bird welfare. Furthermore, a significant investment has been made in cuttingedge equipment for hatchery automation. This level of automation strengthens the hatchery’s production efficiency, capacity, biosecurity and chick quality. Moreover, it provides a safe and ergonomic environment for employees. Aligned with Aviagen’s sustainability goals, the hatchery also incorporates energy-efficient technology and environmentally friendly practices. The facility highlights Aviagen’s commitment to animal wel-

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On hand for the opening of Aviagen’s hatchery in Longview, Texas, were, left to right: Timothy Smith, director of business retention & expansion and workforce development, Longview Economic Development Corp.; Trey Hooper, hatchery manager, Aviagen; Marc de Beer, president of Aviagen North America; Jason Anderson, vice president of agricultural development, Henning Companies; and Larry B. Smith Jr., president, L.B. Smith & Associates.

fare and biosecurity, ensuring the health and well-being of chicks throughout the hatching process, ultimately contributing to the company’s mission to promote food security and sustainable growth, the company added. “We are proud to introduce our Longview hatchery, our response to the increasing demand for quality breeding stock that will serve as a sustainable food source,” Dr. Marc de Beer, president of Aviagen North America, said. “This facility is a testament to our commitment to ‘Breeding Success Together’ with local poultry producers, supporting their growth and success as they diligently feed communiPOULTRY TIMES

ties in North America and worldwide.” De Beer added that Aviagen would like to thank the Longview hatchery team and all who contributed to making the hatchery a reality. For more information, visit www.Aviagen.com.

Perdue Farms announces executive leadership changes SALISBURY, Md. — Perdue Farms has announced senior leadership changes that underscore the company’s commitment to supply chain and 12

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operations optimization, talent acquisition and profitable growth. • Chief supply chain and operations officer Gregg Uecker has joined Perdue Foods in the newly created position of Chief Supply Chain and Operations Officer. He has responsibility for the entire Perdue Foods supply chain, including live production, plant operations, transportation and warehousing, order fulfillment, customer service, food safety and quality assurance, procurement, and engineering. “Gregg’s depth of experience and understanding of operations

and supply chain agility will help optimize our supply chain efficiencies to meet and exceed the unique needs of our customers and consumers, and drive sustainable growth for the company,” said Kevin McAdams, CEO of Perdue Farms. Uecker comes to Perdue from CJ Schwan’s, where he was executive vice president of global supply chain. Prior to that, he spent more than 30 years with Tyson Foods in key senior leadership roles such as senior vice president of operations and supply chain for Prepared Foods, SVP of Supply Chain Strategy, SVP/Gen-

sion and total rewards. Katigan joined Perdue Foods in May 2022 as SVP of Human Resources. Prior to joining Perdue, Katigan was chief human resources officer for James Hardie Building Products. She has also held senior-level leadership roles of increasing responsibility at global business until and function levels with such companies as Colfax Corp., Electrolux, Mead Johnson Nutrition and Ford Motor Co. “Our associates are the backbone of our company and Julie’s vision and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to provide a positive experience in a safe, inclusive and supportive environment,” McAdams said.

eral Manager of Processed Meats, SVP/General Manager of Animal Feed and Ingredients and VP of Operations. • Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer Julie Katigan has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for Perdue Farms. She will oversee all aspects of Perdue Farms’ people strategies that engage and develop talent, shape culture, and focus on associate well-being through active talent management, organization development, diversity and inclu-

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Marel appoints Sigurdsson as CEO GARDABAER, Iceland — Arni Sigurdsson took over the role of chief business officer and deputy CEO of Marel in November 2022, and has held the role of Interim CEO since Nov. 7, 2023. He joined Marel in 2014 initially as head of strategy before taking up the role of chief strategy officer and

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executive vice president strategic business units. Before joining Marel, Sigurdsson worked at AGC Partners and Landsbanki Islands. He graduated with an MBA degree from Harvard Business School Sigurdsson and BSc in Industrial Engineering from the University of Iceland. “The Board of Directors is pleased to confirm the appointment of Arni Sigurdsson as chief executive officer of Marel after it undertook a thorough process during the last month,” Arnar Thor Masson, Marel Board of Directors chairman, said. “I have had the pleasure of working alongside Arni over a number of years during which he has held various important leadership roles across our business, most recently the Interim CEO position during an uncertain period for the company, which he has managed well. The Board and (Continued on next page)

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I are confident that he has the skill set and experience needed to ensure Marel effectively manages the near-term headwinds and enable Marel to deliver on its significant potential, for the benefit of our shareholders and wider stakeholders.” “I joined Marel in 2014 as I saw a great business which not only had tremendous opportunities to deliver growth but also to make a meaningful impact for good on food systems globally,” Sigurdsson said. “I am proud of what we have achieved over the last decade and as I look ahead, I am even more excited for what awaits, and I will be assessing the best approach to deliver on our full potential, in the coming months. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues, customers, and wider stakeholders in my new role to ensure that Marel continues to play a leading role in transforming the way food is processed.”

TRANSFORM project secures additional private sector support for antimicrobial use stewardship principles MINNEAPOLIS — Antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections can contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) that spreads amongst human, animal, and plant populations, weakening our ability to prevent and treat future infections. To effectively tackle AMR and reduce its impact on global health security, the USAID-funded Transformational Farm Output Risk Mitigation (TRANSFORM) project is leveraging multisectoral interventions using the One Health approach that recognizes the interdependencies between the

health of humans, animals, and the environment. As part of TRANSFORM, the International Poultry Council (IPC) is driving global change within animal agriculture by uniting poultry industry associations and private sector organizations in supporting antimicrobial use stewardship principles that guide actions to avoid the need to use, but when needed, ensure proper use of antimicrobials. Today, 11 poultry organizations are announcing their commitment to antimicrobial use stewardship principles that reduce the need to use antimicrobials at the farm level. These organizations are commended for recognizing the importance of antimicrobial use stewardship: Animal Husbandry Association of Vietnam (AHAV); Asociación Latinoamericana de Avicultura (ALA); British Poultry Council (BPC); Canadian Poultry & Egg Processors (CPEP); Cargill Inc.; Chicken Farmers of Canada (CFC); Hoa Phat, a Vietnambased company; McDonald’s; Srinivasa Farms, an India-based company; Turkey Farmers of Canada (TFC); and Tyson Foods. These organizations join eight others that have already adopted or endorsed the principles, including Brazilian Association of Animal Protein (ABPA), Federación Nacional de Avicultores de Colombia (FENAVI), Poultry Federation of India (PFI), Unione Nazionale Filiere Agroalimentari Carni e Uova (UNAITALIA), Thai Broiler Processing Exporters Association (TBA), Vietnam Poultry Association (VIPA), DABACO Group and Kenchic Limited. “Each of the 19 organizations that have endorsed or adopted the antimicrobial use stewardship principles brings us closer to our goal of an industry-wide commitment,” said Robin Horel, IPC President. “We’re inspired by the private sector leadership that has been demonstrated thus far, and hope others are motivated to take action to proactively reduce risks to their flocks and beyond.” Collectively, these organizations reach more than 100 countries and represent over 30 percent of global poultry meat production spanning all sectors of poultry production from fully integrated systems POULTRY TIMES

to small farms. Each of these organizations are demonstrating industry leadership in their commitment to these principles, recognizing that action starts at the farm. By adopting or endorsing the principles, organizations are committed to encouraging or taking action that centers around four key points. First, organizations agree to take a risk-based approach around each instance of antimicrobial use and consider why, when, which and how much to administer. Second, organizations agree to adopt farm management practices that improve animal health and would reduce the need for antimicrobial use. Third, organizations commit to using antimicrobials only in compliance with national authorizations and, fourth, that antimicrobials critically important for human medicine should only be used under a supervising veterinarian’s diagnosis and oversight. “Through the One Health approach, we know that human health is linked with the health of animals,” said Annie Kneedler, chief of party for TRANSFORM. “By advancing science-based antimicrobial use stewardship principles, we are able to create an ecosystem where animal health improves, the need for antibiotic use decreases, and animal production increases. These collective efforts contribute to the Global Health Security Agenda goals of reducing the risk of antimicrobial resistance and zoonotic diseases, lessening their impacts on the health of humans around the world.” Led by a private-sector consortium that includes Cargill, Heifer International and IPC, TRANSFORM is working in Kenya, India and Vietnam to advance market-driven animal health solutions that increase global health security by combatting zoonotic disease and AMR. By working throughout the value chain, TRANSFORM aims to drive lasting, systemic change through on-farm practices, holistic animal nutrition research, antimicrobial use stewardship, and access to finance to support animal health and economic sustainability. For more information about TRANSFORM, visit www.cargill. com/sustainability/transform. 14

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Brian Sikes, Cargill president and CEO, elected chair of Cargill Board of Directors MINNEAPOLIS — Cargill President and CEO Brian Sikes has been elected Chair of Cargill’s Board of Directors, effective as of Jan. 1, 2024. Sikes succeeds Dave MacLennan, who retires as executive chair of Cargill’s board. Sikes began his career with Cargill in 1991 and was named president and CEO in January 2023. Sikes is the 10th CEO in Cargill’s 158-year history and is known for his relentless focus on people and culture, as well as customer-driven transformation and growth, the company said. “It is an honor to be elected board chair, and I am confident the best days for our company, and its greatest contributions, lie ahead,” Sikes said. “I step into this role from a position of strength thanks to Dave’s outstanding service and visionary leadership as executive chair of the board and former president and CEO. He reshaped the fabric of Cargill and built a solid foundation, business model and culture that positions us for long-term success.”

Will Chick-fil-A have to open Sundays in New York? NEW YORK — There has been a lot of recent media attention on a bill introduced in New York that would require Chick-fil-A locations to be open on Sundays. However – this bill concerns food facilities that are open in rest stop areas along the state’s highways, as well as nine travel plazas in New York City. The Chick-fil-A brand, known for its iconic sandwich, is synonymous with being (Continued on page 16)

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closed on Sundays. A representative of N.Y. Assemblyman Tony Simone, who introduced the bill, told Business Insider in an email that, “The bill addresses the need for any restaurant that serves travelers to be open seven days a week. When it comes to travel areas, like rest stops, bus stations, and airports, people are often traveling on Sundays, and so it doesn’t make any sense for one of the few restaurants available at these locations to be closed on one of the busiest travel days of the week.” Chick-fil-A has not yet commented on this proposed bill.

NASS: U.S. hog inventory up slightly WASHINGTON — As of Dec. 1, there were 75 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, up slightly from December 2022 and down slightly from Sept. 1, 2023, according to the recent Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report published by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Other key findings in the report were: • Of the 75 million hogs and pigs, 69 million were market hogs, while 6 million were kept for breeding. • Between September 2023 and November 2023, 34.6 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, down slightly from the same time period one year earlier. • From September 2023 through November 2023, U.S. hog and pig producers weaned an average of 11.66 pigs per litter. • U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.90 million sows farrow between December 2023 and February 2024, and 2.91 million sows farrow between March and May 2024. • Iowa hog producers accounted for the largest inventory among the states at 24.9 million head. Minnesota had the second largest inventory at 9.10 million head. North Carolina was third with 7.80 million head. To obtain an accurate measurement of the U.S. swine industry, NASS surveyed 6,341 operators across the nation during the first half of December. The data collected was received by electronic data recording, mail,

a time when GXO is well positioned to grow its market share, particularly in North America, following its acquisition of PFSweb Inc. in October, the company said, adding that the acquisition expands GXO’s offerings in high growth verticals, including cosmetics and luxury goods across North America and Europe, as well as its service capabilities, including high touch customer care, secure payments, fraud protection and distributed order orchestration systems. “On behalf of the entire GXO team, I thank Eduardo for all his contributions to leading our AMAPAC business and wish him continued success,” Wilson said. “He has done a fantastic job deepening talent, standardizing structure, improving efficiency, and winning terrific new customers. He has brought tremendous passion, expertise, and energy to GXO, and we appreciate his continued support to ensure a seamless transition.” GXO currently employs approximately 33,000 team members across more than 400 warehouse locations in the Americas & Asia Pacific.

telephone, and face-to-face interviews. The Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report and all other NASS reports are available online at www.nass.usda.gov.

GXO appoints Guanter as president of Americas and Asia Pacific GREENWICH, Conn. — GXO Logistics Inc. has announced that Jorge Guanter has been appointed president of its Americas and Asia Pacific (AMAPAC) business, succeeding Eduardo Pelleissone who will depart GXO in March 2024. The role, reporting to CEO Malcolm Wilson, has responsibility for managing operations in 12 countries, with a priority focus on North America. “Jorge brings a unique breadth of management and operations expertise having led our Industrials division in North America as well as our operations in Asia, Latin America and Mexico,” Malcolm Wilson, GXO chief executive Officer, said. “Jorge has a proven track record of developing and growing existing and new customers, delivering record sales growth, and providing excellent customer service which is at the heart of every successful company.” Guanter, who is based in the U.S., has more than two decades of experience across engineering, operations and supply chain. Since 2021, he has served as division president of Industrials in the Americas & Asia Pacific business, where he drove record business wins and served top brands, including Boeing, BP, Ingersoll-Rand and Raytheon, while also leading GXO’s International division with operations in Asia, Mexico and Latin America. Prior to joining GXO, he held senior roles at Cargill and Airbus Military. Guanter assumes this role at POULTRY TIMES

Report: Organic feed market size to hit $13.25B by 2030 BURLINGAME, Calif. — Marketing firm CoherentMI recently published a report, titled, “Organic Feed Market Size is estimated to grow from U.S. $7.39 Billion in 2023 and is forecast to reach a value of U.S. $13.25 Billion by 2030” at a CAGR of 8.7 percent between 2023 and 2030. The organic feed market is being driven by two key factors, the company noted. Firstly, there is a growing demand for organic and natural animal products, driven by the increasing consumer awareness regarding the health 16

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benefits associated with organic food consumption. Consumers are becoming more conscious about the potential adverse effects of pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics in conventionally produced animal products. This has resulted in a shift towards organic animal products, thereby driving the demand for organic feed. Secondly, government regulations and standards promoting the use of organic products are further boosting the market growth. Many countries have implemented regulations and certification programs to ensure the authenticity and quality of organic products, including organic feed. These regulations and certifications provide assurance to the consumers about the organic nature of the products, thereby increasing their demand., CoherentMI said. There are two prominent trends shaping the organic feed market. First, there is a rising trend of vertical integration in the organic feed industry. Key players in the market are adopting the strategy of backward integration by acquiring or partnering with organic farms to produce their own organic feed. This not only ensures a constant supply of organic feed but also helps in maintaining the quality and authenticity of the products, the company noted. Second, there is an increasing trend of product innovation and development in the organic feed market. Manufacturers are focusing on developing novel and improved formulations of organic feed to meet the specific nutritional requirements of different animal species. They are also investing in research and development activities to improve the nutritional value and overall performance of organic feed, CoherentMI added. Some recent developments the company noted, include: • In March 2022, Cargill introduced CkickXM, an organic poultry feed that helps grill birds immune systems and digestive health. • In May 2020, ForFarmers purchased De Hoop Mengvoeders, which broadened the company’s organic feed line. The organic feed market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand

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for organic and sustainable farming practices, CoherentMI said, adding that, consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental and health benefits of organic products, leading to a rise in demand for organic livestock products. This has created a lucrative market opportunity for organic feed manufacturers. With the ban on the use of synthetic additives and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in organic livestock farming, there is a growing need for organic feed that meets the strict regulatory standards. Farmers are looking for high-quality organic feed that provides the necessary nutrients to their livestock without compromising on sustainability and animal welfare, the company noted. The global demand for organic livestock products is on the rise, creating a significant opportunity for the organic feed market, CoherentMI said, adding that, consumers are increasingly concerned about the quality of the food they consume and the impact it has on their health and the environment. As a result, there is a growing preference for organic

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enza (HPAI) in poultry following a November outbreak at a commercial raised-for-release waterfowl facility in Southwest Georgia. As listed with the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH, formerly OIE), this designation allows exports and international trade for Georgia poultry products to be restored. “Following the detection of HPAI in a commercial raisedfor-release waterfowl flock in Southwest Georgia, our State Agricultural Response Team

Ga. announces it is ‘HPAI-Free’ following Nov. outbreak in commercial duck flock ATLANTA — On Dec. 29, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper announced that as of Dec. 27, 2023, Georgia has achieved free status for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influ-

(SART) immediately deployed to the affected premises where they worked through the Thanksgiving holiday to successfully contain the outbreak and mitigate any further spread,” Harper said. “I’m incredibly proud of their work to contain the outbreak, protecting our poultry industry and the more than 80,000 Georgians it employs. Thanks to our SART Team’s work, Georgia’s ‘HPAI-Free’ status in poultry has been restored, and exports of Georgia Grown poultry can resume as normal.” Flock owners should note that a HPAI-free status in poultry is NOT an “all clear” or an indication that the risk of the disease is over in Georgia or the United States. Owners of all flocks, large and small, need to remain vigilant in biosecurity and prevent the virus’s introduction. “We’re grateful that Georgia has been declared HPAI-free in poultry. While the risk of HPAI persists, we’re optimistic that with conscientious flock owners, we’ll remain HPAI-free in poultry,” said Georgia State

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Veterinarian Dr. Janemarie Hennebelle. “Continuing vigilance is key — minimize contact between wild birds and poultry, follow all biosecurity protocols, and stay watchful over your flocks.” The influenza virus is still very active throughout parts of the United States. HPAI has been identified on 1050 premises in 47 states since February 2022, with new cases as recently as late December. Wild birds infected with HPAI have been found from coast to coast in various species, including waterfowl (ducks, geese, gulls, etc.), raptors (vultures and eagles), as well as other common species (wild turkey), and has also been detected in some wild mammals (bear, mountain lion, etc.) In Georgia, HPAI was confirmed in November 2023 in a commercial raised-for-release waterfowl operation located in Sumter County. This was the first confirmation of HPAI in a commercial waterfowl flock in the state. All control areas and surveillance zones have been

coughing, sneezing, lack of coordination, and diarrhea. • Reporting Disease: Promptly report any observation of domestic or wild birds with the signs as described above. • Domestic birds: In Georgia, call the AI Hotline at 770-7666850. Testing is free through the Georgia Poultry Lab, https:// www.gapoultrylab.org/avianinfluenza-hotline/. • Wild birds: In Georgia, report dead or sick bald eagles or vultures when seen in unusually high numbers in a single location to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at 478-994-1438. For more information about HPAI, visit www.aphis.usda.gov.

released. Under WOAH guidelines, HPAI-free status in poultry can be declared for a state or region after the disease has been eliminated on all affected farms and no new infections are detected during a minimum waiting period of 28 days. Avian influenza is a viral disease of poultry. It can be of low pathogenicity (LPAI), causing mild disease, or high pathogenicity (HPAI), causing severe illness and death. The virus has different strains, for example, H1N1 or H7N3. Some LPAI viruses can mutate and become HPAI viruses. Waterfowl and other wild birds contribute to the spread of avian influenza. • Food Safety: Avian influenza does not pose a risk to the food supply. The risk of human infection with avian influenza is very low. • Signs of HPAI: Signs include sudden death without clinical signs; lack of energy or appetite; decreased egg production; soft-shelled or misshapen eggs; swelling or purple discoloration of the head, eyelids, comb, hocks, nasal discharge,

KFC China celebrates the opening of its 10,000th store SHANGHAI — Yum China Holdings Inc. is celebrating the opening of KFC China’s 10,000th store, marking a significant milestone in KFC China’s 36year growth journey in the coun-

try. Situated in Hangzhou, KFC China’s 10,000th store is located on the banks of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, a historically important link connecting northern and southern China. Since opening its first store in Beijing in 1987, KFC has grown into the country’s largest QSR brand in terms of system sales. This growth has been underpinned by a world-class in-house supply chain management system developed over three decades. “As the first western QSR restaurant brand in China to reach this incredible milestone, KFC China’s 10,000th store opening is a proud moment for all of us, demonstrating the brand’s deep bond with Chinese consumers across generations for over 36 years,” said Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China. “Strategically positioned for sustained growth, KFC China stands to benefit from its large and rapidly expanding store network, substantial economies of scale and access to an even broader customer base. (Continued on next page)

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Presently serving just one-third of China’s population, our goal is for KFC China to reach over half by 2026. By leveraging our solid foundation of success and tremendous untapped potential for future growth, we are confident that KFC China will continue to be China’s leading restaurant brand for many years to come.” “In pursuit of our ambitious growth targets, we are committed to establishing KFC China as the preferred daily choice for an increasingly diverse customer base,” said Warton Wang, general manager of KFC China. “KFC China remains at the forefront of pioneering new formats and groundbreaking concepts to accelerate store expansion into untapped cities, while also staying ahead of evolving consumer preferences and emerging consumption trends. Going forward, KFC China will continue to offer a diverse array of innovative meal choices across price ranges, ensuring that consumers can enjoy KFC anytime and anywhere.” Despite having already established an extensive presence in more than 1,900 cities as of

the end of Q3 2023, KFC China continues to actively expand its addressable market, with 1,100 untapped cities on the brand’s radar for entry. Over the past five years, KFC China has seen

remarkable growth, with average annual growth in net new KFC stores exceeding 22 percent, all while maintaining an average store payback period of approximately two years. At the same time, KFC China has been accelerating store openings in lower-tier cities while increasing store density in higher-tier cities. Through the introduction of innovative products and development of new categories, KFC China is proactively broadening its consumer base and catering to the evolving needs of Chinese consumers, the company noted. Recent successes include the introduction of Juicy Whole Chicken and Beef Burgers, with both products generating annual sales exceeding $100 million. KFC China is also widening its menu to introduce more entry-level price point offerings, ensuring its products better cater to the needs and preferences of a broader range of consumers. Meanwhile, KFC China continues to expand its in-house coffee brand, KCOFFEE, aiming to open more than 300 standalone KCOFFEE stores by the end of 2024. In tandem with increased store density across various regions, KFC China is redefining convenience and making its delivery services more accessible,

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the company added. Notably, a double-digit surge in smallticket delivery orders of 40 RMB or less across major fast-food players represents an area of opportunity for KFC China. KFC China has also showcased a steadfast commitment to maintaining robust margins, enabled by procurement excellence, continuous product innovation, and full chicken utilization, the company said. Additionally, the brand has embraced cutting-edge technologies, including in-store Internet of Things, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiency. Looking forward, KFC China plans to further accelerate its annual net new store openings to exceed 1,200 in the next three years, with 15 percent to 20 percent expected to be franchise stores, aligning with Yum China’s overarching goal to reach 20,000 stores by 2026. KFC China’s future strategy encompasses a diverse range of store models and modules – ranging from standard stores to future concept stores, mini-stores, and stores strategically positioned in lower-tier cities. This approach underscores KFC China’s commitment to innovationempowered growth and adaptability in the dynamic Chinese market, the company added.

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Special discount offered to poultry growers to attend this year’s IPPE ATLANTA — Poultry growers are invited to attend the 2024 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) with a special registration fee of only $5 (onsite only), an excellent savings of $125! This program is open to U.S. residents only. “We strongly encourage poultry growers to take advantage of this opportunity to attend IPPE at such a great price. They will be able to EXPERIENCE IT ALL in IPPE’s more than 588,500 (and growing) square feet of exhibit space. Attending IPPE will allow you to build relationships, find new suppliers and vendors, and connect with your friends and colleagues in one place, at one time. Join us in Atlanta to EXPERIENCE IT ALL at the 2024 IPPE!” said IPPE show organizers.

IPPE will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta from Jan. 30- Feb. 1, 2024. Poultry growers can attend the IPPE on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Registration will be-

gin each morning at 7 a.m. at the Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd., in downtown Atlanta. A completed registration form and a 2024 Grower Days coupon are

Free bus service offered from field operations to 2024 IPPE ATLANTA — Free bus service from field operations will be available for the upcoming 2024 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). Company employees and contract producers of companies actively involved in the production and processing of poultry and meat or the production of animal food, who are also members of the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, American Feed Industry Association, or the Meat Institute, are eligible to participate. Complimentary registration for IPPE will be provided through the Members to Atlanta (M2A) Program. Buses will pick up employees and growers at a location selected by the company, travel to the Expo and return the same afternoon. There is no cost to the company or the individuals, and the program is available to any location within an approximate three-hour drive from Atlanta. “We strongly encourage company managers to take advantage of the free IPPE bus program,” said IPPE show organizers. “The bus program makes it convenient and simple for

employees and growers to attend the Expo at no cost to them. This is a unique opportunity to see and experience the current and future innovations in meat, poultry and egg, and animal food production and processing, in addition to the free education programs, TECHTalks, New Product Showcase, and networking and attendee activities. It is a cost-effective and special way of recognizing employees and acknowledging the role of producers.” The 2024 IPPE will be held Jan. 30–Feb. 1 and will have the largest trade show floor in its history at 615,000+ square feet and growing. IPPE is a collaboration of three trade shows—International Feed Expo, International Poultry Expo and International Meat Expo — representing the entire chain of protein production and processing. More information about IPPE is available at www.ippexpo.org. For companies interested in taking advantage of the bus program, please contact Benjamin Starkey via email at bstarkey@uspoultry. org and by phone at 770-635-9057. POULTRY TIMES

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required. Registration forms will be located at the Expo and should be completed onsite. Coupons are available through state poultry organizations, as well as this issue of Poultry Times.

International Rendering Symposium to explore impact on biofuel and animal food production ATLANTA — The rendering industry’s contributions to animal agriculture’s economic and environmental sustainability is vital, yet often overlooked when food and animal food production is discussed. The International Rendering Symposium, held in conjunction with the 2024 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta, Ga., will discuss rendering’s contributions, impact, and the future of the industry. Hosted by the North American Renderers Association (NARA) and U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY), the symposium will begin at noon, Thursday, Feb. 1, and continue through Friday morning, Feb. 2, in room B-405. The cost of registration is $250. The symposium is organized by focus area into four sections. Topics to be covered on Thursday in the “Poultry and

Pet Food Section” include Lifecycle Data on the Sustainability of Rendered Products for Pet Food; The Pet Food Market in Latin America; and The Use of Animal Proteins in Chicken and Egg Production. This will be followed by the “Low Carbon Intense (CI) Ingredients Session.” Sessions will include discussions on Impacts of CI Scoring on the Food, Feed and Fuel; The Truth About Food vs. Fuel — What the Historical Data Shows; and a Market Outlook. A networking reception will be held on Thursday at the conclusion of the afternoon’s presentations. Day two kicks off with the “Aquaculture Section” which will cover Lifecycle Data on the Sustainability of Rendered Products for Aquaculture; The Use of Rendered Proteins and Fats in Aquaculture; and a Latin America Aquaculture Market Review. The final “Interna-

tional Section” will feature the topics Global Anti-Oxidant Supply; China: Making Moves to Reduce Food Loss & Waste; and International Market Intelligence. Each section will be followed by a panel discussion. The 2024 IPPE will be held Jan. 30-Feb. 1 and is a collaboration of three trade shows – the International Feed Expo, International Poultry Expo

and International Meat Expo — representing the entire chain of protein production and processing. The event is sponsored by USPOULTRY, the American Feed Industry Association and the Meat Institute. For more information about IPPE, including registration details, lodging and other education offerings, visit www. ippexpo.org.

Meat Institute: House passes bill to preserve Xylazine vet use WASHINGTON — The Meat Institute applauds the House of Representatives for passing the Support for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act that, in part, fights the illicit use of xylazine in humans while preserving access to the drug for use in animals. “For beef packers, xylazine is used to quickly and humanely sedate sick or injured cattle in a manner that can safely and effectively be administered by workers. Xylazine has both animal welfare and worker safety benefits at beef plants, and there are no equally safe and effective alternatives,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. At issue is the concern that xylazine, a drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in animals, is being imported illegally in powder form and added to fentanyl. Xylazine is

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USPOULTRY and PSA Foundations host Ph.D. and Vet Student Career Fair at IPPE ATLANTA — The U.S. Poultry & Egg Harold E. Ford Foundation (USPOULTRY Foundation) and the Poultry Science Association Foundation (PSA Foundation) announce the jointly sponsored Ph.D. and Vet Student Career Fair which will be held during the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE), scheduled for Jan. 30–Feb. 1, 2024, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Ga. The Career Fair will be held in Room B309, 8-11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 30, in conjunction with the International Poultry Scientific Forum. This unique program is designed to better serve U.S. Poultry & Egg Association member companies and allied suppliers, particularly involving, but not limited to, technology driven companies such as those in genetics, health, pharmaceuticals, and nutrition. The target participants are post-doctoral,

early Ph.D. and vet students. USPOULTRY, through the USPOULTRY Foundation, also hosts a well-established and highly successful College Student Career Program during IPPE. The integral components of this outstanding program include interview opportunities with member companies and exhibitors for summer internship employment and entry-level career positions for B.S. and M.S. students seeking employment in the poultry production, processing and allied supplier industry. The Poultry Science Association provides a career program

focused primarily on academic career opportunities for graduate students, both M.S. and Ph.D., through the PSA website. The effort is supported by the PSA Hatchery, which is PSA’s graduate student organization. It is also supported by the PSA Foundation, primarily through the Giesen Internship Program for aspiring graduate students in conjunction with industry partners, endowed undergraduate scholarships and through M.S. and Ph.D. Fellowships supported by Foundation donors through grants or endowments. “This is a great service our two

organizations can provide to the poultry and allied industry, particularly those with needs in genetics, health, pharmaceuticals and nutrition fields. Further, this opportunity is provided in one place at one time in conjunction with the IPSF, conveniently benefiting these exceptional students and industry companies seeking talented employees to provide for their next generation of scientific leadership,” said Mike Levengood, Perdue Farms, and USPOULTRY Foundation chairman. “We are pleased to again offer the Ph.D. and Vet Student Career Fair at IPPE 2024.” For more information on the program, go to Ph.D. and Vet Student Career Fair at www. ippexpo.org. For further information or inquiries, contact Jerrica Russaw, jrussaw@uspoultry.org or Barbara Jenkins, bjenkins@uspoultry.org.

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Purdue Beef Basics in the Eastern Corn Belt is a virtual, multi-session program that will take place in February and March. Hosted by Purdue Extension, the program is aimed at the beef cattle industry and will cover topics including an overview of beef cattle, behavior and facilities, health, genetic selection, forages, nutrition, and reproduction.

Purdue Beef Basics program to highlight key topics for the beef cattle industry Purdue University

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University Extension is offering Purdue Beef Basics in the Eastern Corn Belt — a virtual, multi-session program aimed at the beef cattle industry that will take place in February and March. Purdue Extension educators and specialists and industry experts will facilitate and lead program sessions. Among the topics to be covered are an overview of beef cattle, behavior and facilities, health, genetic selection, forages, nutrition, and reproduction. Producers with less than five years of experience and those interested in exploring the industry are encouraged to attend. The program will run from Feb. 6 until March 26, 2024, on Tuesdays from 6-8:30 p.m. ET, and on Thursdays from 7-8 p.m. ET. The cost is $50, and the registration deadline is

Jan. 24, 2024. Sabrina Allen, Purdue Extension educator, agriculture and natural resources, and program co-host, says, “We hope that producers walk away from this training with increased confidence and awareness of what producing beef cattle entails.” Keith Johnson, professor of agronomy, Extension forage specialist and event speaker, says, “The Purdue Beef Basics program will provide attendees with the ability to better communicate with those that supply inputs necessary to be a successful cattle producer. The program will also introduce participants to a network of professionals that will prove valuable as they begin or further establish their beef business.” To register for the program, visit the Extension event website: https://cvent.me/ EBNPNV. For other questions or inquiries, email allen484@purdue.edu or jmrichards@purdue.edu. POULTRY TIMES

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“The Purdue Beef Basics program will provide attendees with the ability to better communicate with those that supply inputs necessary to be a successful cattle producer. “

NCC: Dozens of Congress members request more time for latest Packers, Stockyards Rule WASHINGTON — The Congressional and Senate Chicken Caucuses in December sent letters to USDA requesting a 180-day extenLED by Innovation sion to the implementation period for the department’s latest Packers and Stockyards Act rule, entitled, “Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments.” The rule, which was published in final version in the Federal Register on Nov. 28, 2023, includes a 75-day compliance period. Thus, the implied compliance date for broiler processing companies and growers is Feb. 12, 2024. “The rule establishes numerous additional disclosure requirements, changes what provisions must be included in contracts, introduces various open-ended and novel definitions and terms, requires companies establish entire oversight systems from scratch, and injects significant ambiguity regarding compliance,” the House letter said. “The provisions in the rule requiring certain terms be included in contracts are so novel that it appears the industry could have to amend nearly every contract — tens of thousands in total — in just two months over three major federal holidays. By providing just 75 days to implement the rule,

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PEAK attendee registration & hotel reservations now open BUFFALO, Minn. — Registration and hotel reservations for attendees to PEAK 2024 — formerly called the Midwest Poultry Federation Convention — is now open at www.midwestpoultry.com. Show dates are April 17-19, 2024, at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minn. PEAK is the nation’s largest trade show and convention in North America focused exclusively on the business and food production of poultry. In 2024, the show days shift to Wednesday-Friday and include a variety of education, networking and trade show activities, including: • The Pre-Show Nutrition and Poultry Health Symposium will be held Wednesday afternoon, April 17. • Education tracks for tur-

Convention Center (new location in 2024). • PEAK’s Exhibit Hall will be open 10am-5pm on Thursday, April 18 and 9am–12pm on Friday, April 19. “PEAK is the ideal place to connect with professionals, researchers, and industry experts to exchange ideas with others in the poultry industry,” said Ross Thoreson, MPF president. Thoreson’s company, Best Veterinary Solutions, is a long-time exhibitor at the show. “PEAK

keys, egg layers, broilers, and feed technology and manufacturing will take place across two days of the show (April 17-18). • The Business and Leadership Track focuses on leadership development and the success of your employees and your business and will run all three day of the show (April 17-19). • PEAK Unhatched: An Evening of Eats and Entertainment will run opening night at PEAK — Wednesday, April 17 starting at 5:00 pm. at the Minneapolis

attendees stay informed about industry trends, scouring the trade show floor for the latest innovations, technologies, and trends in the industry that will benefit their farm businesses and help them stay competitive.” Partnering events include the North Central Avian Disease Conference (April 16-17), the Organic Egg Farmers of American Symposium (April 17), and the Devenish Nutrition Symposium (April 17 by invitation only) — all events will be held at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Details on all PEAK events, education program, and the list of exhibitors are available at www.midwestpoultry.com. You may also contact MPF with any questions at info@midwestpoultry.com or 763-284-6763.

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HUNT VALLEY, Md. — McCormick® announces its Flavor Forecast 24th Edition, an annual report illuminating the latest culinary trends shaping the way people prepare and enjoy food worldwide. With this year’s report, McCormick announces its 2024 Flavor of the Year: Tamarind. Consumers can experience it in action with the new Tamarind & Pasilla Chile Seasoning. Tamarind, a spice native to Africa, India, and the Middle East, has lent its acidic, tangy-sweet flavor to Latin, Caribbean, and Mexican cuisines for centuries. Today, this plump, pod-like fruit is jetsetting across the world, feeding a global curiosity for what’s next in food, drink, and flavor, the company said. McCormick adds that other flavor predictions and trends identified in its Flavor Forecast include:

• Sour Power: From tamarind to coconut vinegar, acidic agents are stepping into the spotlight to open our senses, boost craveability, and even help “cook” without heat. Sour is proving it’s not “just another ingredient;” it’s revolutionizing menus, delivering layer on layer of exciting flavor. • Thoughtfully Borrowed:

Authenticity encompasses background, heritage, and experiences — with it comes a reinvention of regional-traditional cooking. Starting with a dash of something that’s “you”, these conscious cultural combinations pay homage and respect to both roots and backgrounds — creating a celebration of flavor, experience, and cuisine.

• Indulgence Redefined: A source of pleasure, ritual, and community, indulgence comes in all shapes and forms. From time of day to season, flavor sensations link to emotions, memories, and all lived experiences. From a crisp, light ceviche to an over-the-top breakfast poutine, it’s about how we treat ourselves through flavor, texture, and ingredients that make us happy. Two ways this trend comes to life are through newstalgic and food maximalism. Newstaglic: What’s old is new again, with restaurants re-introducing childhood favorites with a gourmet twist. Food maximalism: By layering flavors and textures in creative, fun, and always thoughtful ways, you can experience flavor to the max. “For nearly 25 years, McCormick has forecasted global flavor trends through our Flavor Forecast report. After all this time, there is still no shortage of trends to uncover which allow us to continue to shake up the way people cook, flavor, and eat,” said Tabata Gomez, McCormick chief marketing officer. For more information, visit www.flavorforecast.com.

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USPOULTRY Foundation awards student recruiting grant to DelVal TUCKER, Ga. — The USPOULTRY Foundation has awarded a $2,310 student recruiting grant to Delaware Valley University. Delaware Valley University offers an undergraduate poultry science course that provides the opportunity for students to work hands-on with poultry and connect with industry partners. Students completing this course also complete the Certified Poultry Technician Training through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The grant funds will be used to enhance the poultry science course through the addition of a live bird husbandry component, helping students to learn about poultry husbandry firsthand, including biosecurity, nutrition and feed efficiency. Addition-

ally, funds will help to defray the cost of connecting with leaders at Perdue Farms to experience a large-scale poultry operation and network with Delaware Valley University alumni currently working at Perdue Farms. The USPOULTRY Foundation board approved student recruiting grants totaling $297,580 to 26 colleges and universities across the United States with a Poultry Science Department or industry-related degree program. The USPOULTRY Foundation provides annual recruiting funds to colleges and universities to attract students to their poultry programs. The grants are made possible by gifts to the Foundation from companies, individuals and families, in addition to funds earned over the

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Joanne Powell, professor in the Animal Science department at Delaware Valley University, and other staff and students are shown receiving a $2,310 USPOULTRY Foundation student recruiting grant.

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Wilkes Community College receives grant for recruiting from USPOULTRY Foundation TUCKER, Ga. — The USPOULTRY Foundation awarded a $7,000 student recruiting grant to Wilkes Community College in North Carolina. Wilkes Community College is well situated to provide students with an entry into the poultry industry, as several large companies are located in the region. Through

its Associate in Applied Sciences degrees in Animal Science Technology and Poultry Management, students are provided with the foundation necessary for a career in the poultry industry, the foundation noted. The grant funds will be used to recruit high school students into

the poultry program and raise awareness of the career options available, as well as inform about the impact that this industry has on the local economy. Additionally, funds will be used to support FFA activities as well as promotional items to further increase awareness of poultry industry careers. Finally, a youth poultry workshop will be offered in the Western North Carolina area, allowing participants to learn about such topics as candling eggs, egg breakout, grading eggs, grading carcasses, dissecting birds and identifying poultry anatomy. The USPOULTRY Foundation board approved student recruiting grants totaling $297,580 to 26 colleges and universities across

the United States with a poultry science department or industryrelated degree program. The USPOULTRY Foundation provides annual recruiting funds to colleges and universities to attract students to their poultry programs. The grants are made possible by gifts to the Foundation from companies, individuals and families, in addition to funds earned over the years at the International Poultry Expo, part of the International Production & Processing Expo.

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Consumers grapple with confusion over food labels and foodborne illness Purdue University

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The use of food-date labels such as “use by” and “best if used by” causes consumer confusion that results in many Americans discarding food that is safe to eat or donate, according to the Purdue University’s November 2023 Consumer Food Insights Report. The survey-based report out of Purdue University’s Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability assesses food spending, consumer satisfaction and values, support of agricultural and food policies, and trust in information sources. Purdue experts conducted and evaluated the survey, which included 1,200 consumers across the U.S. The Congressional Research Service recently reported that 7 percent of all U.S. food waste is because of date labeling confusion. “The goal of this month’s CFI survey was to gather consumer perceptions about what these food date labels mean,” said the report’s lead author, Joseph Balagtas, professor of agricultural economics at Purdue and director of CFDAS. The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service defines “use by” and “best if used by” as references to peak food quality rather than the date after which the food is no longer safe to eat. However, there is no official standard for food date labeling in the U.S., which leads to an unsurprising mix of responses as to what they mean. “Over half of consumers connect ‘best if used by’ and ‘use by’ dates with food safety, while over 30 percent believe these labels are related to food quality,” Balagtas said. “This information problem is a kind of market failure and leads to waste. One potential fix to misinformation is for the government to set standards for food date labels to help inform consumers what is and is not safe to eat to help reduce food waste in the U.S. The recently proposed Food Date Labeling Act is an attempt to achieve that goal.”

Foodborne illness The November survey also looked at consumer perceptions of foodborne illness risks. Food-risk attitudes are divided into three groups: risk-averse, risk-neutral and risk-loving. The groupings were based on respondents’ self-assessed risk tolerance for food at home (FAH) and food away from home (FAFH) on a scale from 0 (risk-averse) to 10 (fully prepared to take risks or risk-loving). The summaries broken down this way focus on CFI data from January to November 2023. “We found that consumers believe the

risk of contracting a foodborne illness is higher when eating food at a restaurant compared to eating food they prepare at home themselves, which is consistent with data on the incidence of foodborne illness,” Balagtas said. “So it is not surprising that we also see that consumers who are more risk-averse when it comes to their food eat home-cooked meals more frequently than consumers willing to take more risks with their food consumption.” A variety of store-bought goods have the potential to contain foodborne bacteria that cause illness. Even so, consumers were more likely to select raw meat items as foods that pose a high risk of foodborne illnesses. “We see a gap of more than 20 percentage points in the rate at which raw meats were selected compared to leafy greens, milk, flour, and raw fruits and vegetables, despite the fact that some of these items that are perceived as ‘safer’ have caused foodborne illness outbreaks in the past,” Balagtas noted. The Interagency Food Safety Analytics Collaboration, a group tasked with monitoring the causes of foodborne illnesses in the U.S., recently reported that the contribution of fresh produce to foodborne outbreaks is comparable to that of raw meats and, in some cases, greater. The November survey also showed that food insecurity has dropped slightly for the fifth straight month, to 12.6 percent. “We do observe higher rates of food insecurity among risk-loving consumers, though this difference is likely the result of the correlation between age and food-risk attitudes,” said Elijah Bryant, a survey rePOULTRY TIMES

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search analyst at the center and co-author of the report. “Generally, older consumers with more resources, on average, tend to be more food secure and less willing to take food risks, while younger people more willing to take risks tend to have fewer resources, resulting in higher rates of food insecurity.” Consumers also were asked to recall their food behaviors during the previous month. “Those who are classified as risk-loving reported eating fruits and vegetables without washing them, eating rare or undercooked meat and eating raw dough or batter more frequently than those who are riskaverse,” Bryant said. Consumers less willing to take risks with their food were also less likely to agree with claims about the health benefits of nonconventional food items. These claims include organic being more nutritious than nonorganic, plant-based milk being healthier than dairy milk and gluten-free food being healthier than products containing gluten. This may be indicative of risk-averse consumers being more resistant to alternative foods in the food system that stray from what they perceive as the norm, Bryant said. The Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability is part of Purdue’s Next Moves in agriculture and food systems and uses innovative data analysis shared through user-friendly platforms to improve the food system. In addition to the Consumer Food Insights Report, the center offers a portfolio of online dashboards. For more information, visit https://ag.purdue.edu/next-moves/.

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