Poultry Times 9-23-24

September 23, 2024

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IN THIS ISSUE

VOL. 71 | NO. 20 | SEPTEMBER 23, 2024

On the cover

September 23, 2024

www.poultrytimes.com

Your poultry industr y news

source since 1954

LITTER MANAGEMENT

LITTER MANAGEMENT

Viewpoints “Proper poultry litter management offers numerous benefits in maintaining welfare, preventing illness, reducing the cost of production inputs by the grower and protecting the environment.”

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— Rafael Rivera | 10

News 8 | NCC responds to Harris campaign comments on food price gouging

Business 12 | Meyn celebrates 65 years of poultry processing innovation

Calendar SEPTEMBER

SEPT 30-Oct. 2 — 59th NATIOdNAL MEETING on POULTRY HEALTH, PROCESSING and LIVE PRODUCTION, Roland E. Powell Convention Center, Ocean City, Md. Contact: Delmarva Chicken Association, 16686 County Seat Hwy., Georgetown, Del. 19947; Ph: 302856-9037; www.dcachicken. com.

OCTOBER

OCT 7-10 — POULTRY SYMPOSIUM, Rogers Convention Center, Rogers, Ark. Contact: The Poultry Federation, 321 South Vic-

Features 7 | Benefits, hazards and proper application of poultry litter 9 | CDC issues warning after 65 salmonella illnesses stemming from recalled eggs 9 | Is eating chicken a healthy choice for your diet?

tory Street, Little Rock, Ark. 72201; Ph: 501-375-8131; info@thepoultryfederation. com; www.thepoultryfederaiton.com.

OCT 9-11 — PROTEIN PACT SUMMIT, JW Marriott, Austin, Texas. Contact: North American Meat Institute, 1150 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20036; Ph: 202-587-4200; www.meatinstitute.org.

OCT 10 — AFIA/KSU500, Fundamentals of Feed Manufacturing. Online course runs through Nov. 5, 2024.

Contact: American Feed Industry Association, 2101 Wilson Blvd., Suite 810, Arlington, Va. 22201. Ph: 703524-0810; www.afia.org.

POULTRY TIMES

20 | Does poultry litter contain weed seeds?

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Index of Advertisers Be sure to pay a visit to these esteemed sponsors of the Poultry Times, recognizing them as vital contributors to the industry who greatly appreciate your support.

Big Dutchman | 23 616-582-4000; www.bigdutchmanusa.com Eagan Mfg. | 15 870-878-6805; www.eaganmfg.com Farmer Boy Ag | 22 717-866-7565; www.farmerboyag.com Gas-Fired Products | 13 800-849-7311; www.spaceray.com Impact Poultry Products | 14 800-448-4723; www.impactpoultryproducts. com Jones-Hamilton | 2 888-858-4425; www.poultrylittertreatment. com Kunafin (The Insectary) | 29 800-832-1113; www.kunafin.com L.B. White | 24 608-783-5691; www.lbwhite.com Lewis Brothers | 3

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS POULTRY TIMES PO Box 1338 Gainesville, GA 30503 PH | 770-718-3443 FAX | 770-532-4894

POULTRY TIMES STAFF LAUREN HUNTER Publisher, Poultry Times/PoultryTimes.com 770-718-3443 laurenhunter@poultrytimes.com DAVID B. STRICKLAND Editor, Poultry Times 770-718-3442 dstrickland@poultrytimes.com

912-367-4651; www.lbmfg.com National Incinerator | 18 205-589-6720; www.nationalincinerator.com Neogen | 31 800-234-5333; www.neogen.com Overdrive Lighting | 28 800-657-0509; www.aglights.com Precision Lighting | 1, 4, 26, 32 800-737-1837; www.poultrylighting.com The Egg Carton Store | 29 866-333-1132; www.eggcartonstore.com Uzelac Industries | 20 414-529-0240; www.uzelacind.com Walinga USA | 27 800-466-1197; www.walinga.com Weightech | 17, 25 800-457-3720; www.weightechinc.com

ELIZABETH BOBENHAUSEN Content Writer, Poultry Times 770-209-3335 ebobenhausen@poultrytimes.com

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COVER STORY

Benefits, hazards and proper application of poultry litter PT

BY DAVID B. STRICKLAND

Poultry Times Editor dstrickland@ poultrytimes.com

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Poultry litter is a valuable byproduct of poultry production, but it must be safely stored and properly applied to agricultural land to gain the benefit of this organic fertilizer.

Care and concern need to be given to what are the two most valuable, and potentially contaminating nutrients found in poultry litter — nitrogen and phosphorous.

In information from the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, it says, “most of the nitrogen found in poultry manure or litter is in the form of organic nitrogen. A smaller amount of the nitrogen in the litter is ammonium. Organic nitrogen can be converted to inorganic nitrogen by bacteria in the soil. Plants can then use inorganic nitrogen for growth. Excessive organic ammonium forms of nitrogen can be transformed into nitrate nitrogen, which in high levels in drinking water can harm human health.”

A problem noted about excess

ing that the nutrients are applied in a beneficial way, while also protecting ground and surface waters from potential contamination.

There are some key components of an NMP, UGA Extension noted. These include: • Farm mapping This included identifying the land where the litter will be applied.

“Locate surface waters and wells on the property with appropriate setback distances for application,” UGA Extension said. “Do not apply poultry manure within 100 feet of surface waters or wells unless a 35-foot vegetative buffer can be provided.”

• Soil and litter analysis Soil and litter nutrient levels obtained from laboratory analysis is needed for the assisting with appropriate application rates.

“Soil samples can be taken on a two- or three-year cycle,” UGA added. “Litter analysis should be done on an annual basis. Contact your local Cooperative Extension Office for assistance.”

• Nutrient budgets Calculate the amount of litter to be applied based on soil and litter analysis, as well as the crop nutrient requirements and the amount of commercial fertilizer

nitrogen from locations where it is applied is the potential for leaching or runoff caused by rainstorms, where the nitrogen can cause contamination after finding its way into the ground water.

“Poultry manure contains phosphorous as a result of natural excretions and from the phosphorous added as an ingredient in poultry feeds,” UGA Extension adds. “Soils with excessive phosphorous levels, if not managed properly, can be a source of soluble phosphorous contamination via runoff into surface waters. Excessive soluble phosphorous in water can cause increased plant and algal growth that can lead to fish kills as a result of depleted oxygen levels in the water.”

The use of Best Management Practices procedures is the best way to ensure that these nutrients do not become environmental issues, the information noted.

“Using appropriate methods for storage and application of poultry litter will assure maximum fertilizer values and environmental protection for your farm and community,” UGA Extension added.

The proper application of poultry litter requires NMPs (Nutrient Management Plans). These plans and practices will assist in assurPOULTRY TIMES

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used.

“The use of a phosphorous risk index (P-Index) can be incorporated into the NMP to determine if litter/manure application is most appropriately done on a nitrogen or phosphorous basis,” UGA said.

• Record keeping Documentation is key for the determining the proper use of litter and manure.

“Document the annual manure generation on the farm, the amount applied to the land, and the amount transported off the farm,” UGA Extension added.

• Proper handling and storage The storage procedures used to calibrate manure spreading equipment also need to be documented.

• Mortality disposal UGA also noted the importance of documenting, “dead bird disposal procedures using state Department of Agriculture approved methods and emergency action plans when needed.”

“Responsible management also requires consideration of appropriate sites, timing of application and consideration of neighbors,” UGA Extension added. “Maintaining and calibrating spreader equipment on a regular basis will ensure that the calculated rates of application from the NMP are actually delivered as intended ….

It takes only one poorly managed poultry operation to negatively impact all producers in a community.”

NCC responds to Harris campaign C i comments on food price gouging PT

ELIZABETH BOBENHAUSEN

Poultry Times staff ebobenhausen@ poultrytimes.com

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — As the presidential race heats up, both former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have made their economic pitches to the American people.

President Trump plans to “drill baby drill” to offset energy prices, which in turn he believes will bring down inflation.

He has stated that if inflation is brought down people will have more in their paychecks, lower interest rates and grocery bills will come down.

Vice President Harris intends to address “corporate price gouging” on food items.

She believes that corporations are purposefully attacking the consumer by making prices higher. The Telegraph reported her campaign said, “price fluctuations are normal in free markets, but Harris recognizes there is a big difference between fair pricing and the excessive prices unrelated to the costs of doing business that Americans have seen in the food and grocery industry.”

However, the vice president has received backlash for her economic plan. The National Chicken Council issued a statement on Harris’ remarks on food price gouging.

“Americans are seeing inflation in nearly every part of their

AP Photo / Susan Walsh

President Joe Biden and Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris arrive to speak about the administration’s efforts to lower costs during an event at Prince George’s Community College in Largo, Md., on Thursday, Aug. 15.

“It’s time for this administration to stop using the meat and poultry industry as a scapegoat and a distraction for the root causes of inflation and the significant challenges facing our economy,” Kushner added.

Reports have noted President Trump calling her economic proposals as “communist.” The New York Post reported from a

livelihoods — rent, gas, automobiles, furniture — not just in the meat case,” Gary Kushner, NCC interim president, said.

“Chicken prices are largely affected by supply and demand, by major input costs like corn, soybeans, energy, packaging, transportation, and by fiscal policy and burdensome government regulations. Not price gouging.”

news conference in Bedminster, N.J., on Aug. 15, Trump said, “we call it the ‘Maduro plan,’ like something straight out of Venezuela or the Soviet Union.

[The plan] is an admission that her economic policies have totally failed and caused really a catastrophe for our country, and beyond that, a catastrophe in the world.”

Subscribe to the free weekday newsletter: The Poultry Report GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Poultry Times has launched a free email newsletter, The Poultry Report.

We have learned that relevant, actionable news and information are absolutely critical to every aspect of the poultry industry as we all navigate very challenging times.

With a focus on current industry trends and concise content delivery, The Poultry Report is designed POULTRY TIMES

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box Monday through Friday.

To subscribe, visit https://www. poultrytimes.com/thepoultryreport.

n CDC issues warning after 65 salmonella illnesses stemming from recalled eggs PT

BY DAVID B. STRICKLAND

Poultry Times Editor dstrickland@ poultrytimes.com

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Milo’s Poultry Farm, Bonduel, Wis., has recalled all of its branded eggs with the labels “Milo’s Poultry Farm” and “Tony’s Fresh Market” after an investigation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration revealed that these eggs have the potential to be contaminated with salmonella.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also issued a warning and noted that 65 people from 9 states have gotten sick from the same strain of salmonella believed to be linked to these products. The products were shipped to be sold in Wisconsin, Illinois and Michigan through retail stores and foodservice distributors. Illness was also reported in California, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Utah and Virginia, CDC said, adding that most of the illnesses have been

in Wisconsin (42) and Illinois (11), with 24 people requiring hospitalization with no deaths reported.

Milo’s Poultry Farm issued its recall on Sept. 6 and added that this recall includes: all carton sizes and egg types labeled “Milo’s Poultry Farm,” as well as all expiration dates. It also includes all cartons of “Tony’s Fresh Market” branded eggs, as well as all expiration dates. In addition, the company is recalling all cases and

expiration dates distributed for retail and foodservice, it said.

“The recall was initiated after the FDA informed the company that environmental samples tested positive for the bacteria,” Milo’s Poultry Farm said in a company announcement. “FDA also conducted whole genome sequencing and found that the samples were related to an ongoing salmonella outbreak investigation.”

“Milo’s Poultry Farm LLC has

ceased production and distribution at this time and will undergo appropriate testing and sanitization of farms and processing equipment,” the company added.

Consumers concerned about the products and the recall may contact Milo’s Poultry Farm at 715-758-6709.

CDC notes that people infected with salmonella may experience fever, stomach cramps and diarrhea, with symptoms beginning from 6 hours to 6 days after consumption of a tainted product.

Most recover after 4 to 7 days without treatment; however, children under 5, adults 65 and older, or people with weakened immune systems may require medical treatment or have more severe symptoms.

The agency also advises that if a consumer has any of the recalled product to throw it away or return to the place of purchase.

Do not consume them and thoroughly wash any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled eggs.

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Is eating chicken a healthy choice for your diet?

PT

ELIZABETH BOBENHAUSEN

Poultry Times staff ebobenhausen@poultrytimes.com

In a mini-series of articles, Poultry Times will be looking at the health benefits of the various poultry industry product segments. This first article looks at the health benefits of chicken.

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — The National Chicken Council takes much pride in the nation’s poultry products. The organization states how important it is to feed people good quality chicken.

NCC says, “supplying the world with a safe, planet-friendly, and nutrient-dense source of high-quality protein.” Its website explains the health benefits of consuming chicken. The protein product consists of all nine amino acids for the human diet. It is a low-calorie, lowsodium and a low-fat source of meat. Chicken establishes all the needed nutrients a person needs from pregnancy to elder years. Studies show that people will eat chicken more than once a week.

Consumers also will purchase chicken be-

cause it is reasonably priced, healthy and versatile. According the NCC, “Americans on average will eat a record 96.8 pounds of chicken per person this year. Chicken consumption is nearly twice that of beef and pork.”

Chicken is a protein that all age groups can enjoy. Chicken can fulfill any personal POULTRY TIMES

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needs, cultural traditions and budgets. Some of the many health benefits include “providing vitamins and minerals involved in brain function, building muscle, promoting heart health, strengthening bones and aiding in weight loss.” The NCC notes, “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 also can promote bone health.

When losing weight, chicken is a meat that is lean and provides protein that the body can utilize. Since it is high in protein, chicken is a good source for managing weight and blood sugar.

According to WebMD, a breast of raw and boneless chicken contains the following nutrients: • Calories: 120 • Protein: 26 grams • Fat: 2 grams • Carbohydrates: 0 grams • Fiber: 0 grams • Sugar: 0 grams

VIEWPOINT

POULTRY TIMES

Proper poultry litter management can help optimize your flock, protect your livelihood POULTRY TIMES

COMMENTARY BY RAFAEL RIVERA U.S. Poultry & Egg Association Rafael Rivera is director, Food Safety & Production Programs, with the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association based in Tucker, Ga. He can be reached at rrivera@uspoultry.org.

TUCKER, Ga. — Proper litter management is a key factor for improved broiler performance. Proper poultry litter management offers numerous benefits in maintaining welfare, preventing illness, reducing the cost of production inputs by the grower and protecting the environment.

The benefits of proper litter management can be summarized in seven main points: 1. Reduces ammonia production: Proper management helps control ammonia levels, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for the birds. High ammonia levels can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems that reduce the welfare of birds.

2. Improves footpad quality: Good litter management reduces the incidence of footpad dermatitis, hock burns and breast blisters, which can significantly impact bird welfare and carcass quality. This is a significant welfare indicator.

3. Enhances litter amendment activity: Effective management practices increase the activity of litter amendments, which help in controlling moisture and ammonia levels.

4. Increases fuel efficiency: Proper litter management can improve fuel efficiency during preheating and brooding by maintaining optimal floor moisture levels. It reduces the need for additional ventilation to dry up litter, and the equipment inside the house can be used for optimized growing conditions and not for remediation.

5. Reduces health risks: By keeping the litter dry and well-managed, the risk of bacterial and fungal infections is minimized, promoting overall flock health, and food safety.

6. Environmental benefits: Properly managed poultry litter can be used as a valuable fertilizer, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and enhancing soil health. It protects other farms from the spread of disease. It also helps in complying with nutrient management guidelines and reduces the environmental impact of poultry farming.

7. Economic benefits: Healthy birds perform better, leading to higher productivity and profitability for poultry farmers. Litter can be an additional POULTRY TIMES

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source of income when sold for fertilizer or other uses. Reduced health issues mean lower veterinary costs and fewer losses.

The goal is to maintain litter dry enough to prevent adverse health and welfare effects and increase bird comfort. Ventilation and adequate drinker management and proper litter amendment applications are the key tools that can make the biggest impact on the success of your litter management program during the life of the flock.

Adjusting drinker flow rates, water pressure and drinker height prevents adding additional moisture to the litter and thus prevents caking throughout the house. Preventing added moisture will avoid using increased ventilation rates or increased fuel consumption to remove moisture and maintain house temperatures.

In-between flocks, litter management practices are crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for poultry and ensuring optimal litter quality. In-house windrowing involves forming the litter into windrows (piles) within the poultry house. The windrows are typically 18 to 24 inches high and are turned at least once, preferably five to six days apart. This process helps to heat the litter, reducing pathogen load and moisture content. Removing the caked or crusted litter from the surface helps to reduce moisture and ammonia levels.

This practice is essential for maintaining a dry and healthy litter environment. Tilling the litter helps to break up compacted areas, improving aeration and reducing moisture.

This can also help to distribute nutrients more evenly throughout the litter. Applying chemical treatments to the litter can help to control ammonia levels and improve overall litter quality. These treatments can include acidifiers, enzymes or other additives designed to enhance litter conditions. For decaking, tilling and additional treatments to work effectively, an extended downtime is needed. Allowing an extended period between flocks can help to reduce pathogen load and improve litter quality. This downtime allows for natural drying and microbial activity to reduce harmful organisms.

Controlling moisture within the poultry house is critical. This can be achieved

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through proper ventilation, maintaining appropriate humidity levels, and repairing leaking water lines and drinkers. Inbetween flocks, management may seem as an extra expense. However, investing time and effort in an in-between flock program will improve preparedness before placement, reduce major expenses such as fuel and electricity, and increase the pounds sold to the integrator.

Litter removed from the poultry house, sometimes referred to as spent litter, is also an additional source of income for growers as described earlier.

Some precautions must be taken to use litter effectively while protecting crops and other animals.

Poultry litter can harbor various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses and parasites. Improper handling can lead to the spread of diseases, such as avian influenza and Newcastle disease.

Farmers must adhere to strict regulations regarding the storage and use of spent poultry litter to ensure it does not pose a biosecurity threat. It is crucial to avoid importing litter from other farms to prevent cross-contamination.

Accumulated litter can attract pests like rodents, insects and wild birds, which can act as vectors for disease transmission. Effective litter management practices are essential to minimize this risk.

Improper application of poultry litter can lead to nutrient runoff, contaminating water bodies and cause environmental pollution. This not only affects the ecosystem but also poses a risk to public health. Non-compliance can result in legal consequences and potential outbreaks.

There are specific practices that can mitigate the biosecurity risks and optimize the use of spent litter. Composting poultry litter on-site can help reduce pathogen load and produce a valuable soil amendment. This process must be carefully managed to ensure effective pathogen reduction.

Store poultry litter in covered, wellventilated areas to prevent contamination and reduce the risk of attracting pests. Implement regular monitoring and testing of litter to detect and address potential biosecurity threats promptly. Ensure that all farm personnel are trained in biosecurity practices related to litter management and disposal. Careful management of litter before, during and after flocks is a good investment.

By addressing these challenges with appropriate strategies, poultry farmers can enhance biosecurity and protect both their flocks and the environment.

“Proper poultry litter management offers numerous benefits in maintaining welfare, preventing illness, reducing the cost of production inputs by the grower and protecting the environment.“ POULTRY TIMES

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BUSINESS

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Meyn celebrates 65 years of poultry processing innovation OOSTZAAN, the Netherlands — On Sept. 9, Meyn began celebrations for its 65th anniversary. Since its founding in 1959, Meyn has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, revolutionizing the poultry processing industry with cutting-edge technologies and solutions, the company noted.

For more than six decades, Meyn has been at the forefront of the industry, introducing

game-changing innovations such as the Apollo 4, the Maestro, and the Rapid Plus, the company said, adding that these products have not only set new standards in efficiency and quality but have also solidified Meyn’s reputation as a pioneer in poultry processing.

“Our 65th anniversary is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and creativity of our entire team,” Joost Weel, Meyn CEO said. “We are proud of our POULTRY TIMES

past achievements and are excited to continue driving innovation as we look to the future.”

As Meyn celebrates this significant milestone, the company added that it is constantly looking to the future, with up12

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coming product launches in 2025 and beyond. Meyn notes that its commitment to innovation continues to pave the way for the next 65 years of success in the poultry processing industry.

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Live Production, Welfare, Biosecurity Seminar to address production efficiencies NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The poultry industry has long faced various challenges and opportunities, but one issue that remains at the forefront is bird welfare. This year, the National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation, United Egg Producers and U.S. Poultry & Egg Association are joining forces again for the 2024 Live Production, Welfare and Biosecurity Seminar.

Scheduled for Oct. 3-4 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Downtown in Nashville, Tenn., this seminar aims to address these ongoing concerns.

“Production efficiencies, welfare and biosecurity best practices are ongoing priorities for those involved in live production,” Rusty Langle, Peco Foods live operations manager and planning committee chair, said. “Attendees will come away with the latest information, resources, tools and best practices to make informed decisions on managing their operations and protecting the health and welfare of broilers, layers, turkeys and ducks.”

The seminar will bring to-

tion, disposal methods, alternative housing and more.

The agenda, crafted by a diverse program committee, including live production managers, poultry health professionals and university professors, is sure to arm production managers and veterinarians with the necessary tools toward more efficient operations, seminar officials noted. The committee includes Will Dillard, Peco Foods Inc.; Dr. Claudia Dunkley, University of Georgia; Rusty Langle, Peco Foods Inc. and program committee chair; Heidi Parnin, Culver Duck Farms Inc.; Dr. Casey Ritz, University of Georgia; Travis Strickland, Farbest Farms Inc.; and Stephen Williams, Butterball LLC. The Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization (PAACO) grants 10.5 CE credit hours for this seminar. To view the full agenda, register for the Live Production, Welfare and Biosecurity Seminar and reserve your hotel room, visit https:// www.uspoultry.org/programs/ education/seminar/#pphs.

gether industry managers, veterinarians and scientists to explore poultry sustainability. Key topics will include highly pathogenic avian influenza and other disease updates, water sanita-

Perdue partners with SustainaBase to enhance sustainability initiatives SALISBURY, Md. — Perdue Farms announces a new strategic partnership with SustainaBase, a carbon accounting platform, to further strengthen the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship. This collaboration will provide Perdue Farms with advanced tools to accurately measure, monitor, and manage their carbon footprint across operations, reinforcing their dedication to sustainable practices and transparent reporting, the company noted.

Perdue Farms has been diligently tracking and reducing its (Continued on next page)

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Scope 1 & 2 emissions during the past decade. The partnership with SustainaBase will now allow the company to start capturing Scope 3 emissions. By leveraging this technology, Perdue Farms customers are expected to see significant benefits by enhancing their ability to report and manage indirect emissions throughout their supply chains, the company added.

“By leveraging SustainaBase’s precise carbon accounting capabilities, Perdue Farms can offer greater transparency and more accurate data related to the environmental impact of our products,” Drew Getty, Perdue Farms’ chief compliance officer, vice president, environmental sustainability, said. “This level of insight will help our customers meet their own sustainability goals and regulatory requirements, ultimately driving progress across the entire food and agriculture value chain.”

“The SustainaBase platform will enable precise, auditable tracking of emissions data in an innovative way,” Gaida Zirkelbach, co-

tional Safety Council for the Poultry Industry, the company announced, adding that it secured the most Awards of Distinction of any member company, with 12 facilities being recognized with this prestigious award.

In total, Perdue Foods’ facilities across 15 states were recognized by the Joint Safety and Health Council for their exceptional leadership in implementing innovative and effective workplace safety health processes and systems. At this year’s council meeting in Destin, Fla., five Perdue Foods processing facilities and seven additional facilities received the Award of Distinction, the highest honor awarded by the council.

The Perdue sites receiving the Award of Distinction included: Milford Plant, Del.; Schulenburg Plant, Texas; Monterey Plant, Tenn.; Lewiston Plant, N.C.; Perry Plant Harvest, Ga.; Bridgeville Feedmill, Del.; Eagle Springs Hatchery, N.C.; Kenly Hatchery, N.C.; Trion Hatchery, Ga.; Ahoskie Growout, N.C.; Perry Growout, Ga.; Brownsville Breeders, Ky. “At Perdue Farms, the wellbeing and safety of our associates is our top priority,” Gregg Uecker, Perdue Farms chief supply chain and operations officer, said. “We foster a culture where safety is paramount in every aspect of our operations. The commitment is evident in our comprehensive safety programs and the active participation of all team members and site locations. We understand that a safe and healthy workplace is foundational to our associates’ success and their ability to return home safe each day.”

To qualify for an Industry Safety and Health Award, facilities must maintain their key Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety metrics — Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) and Days Away, Restricted or Transferred (DART) — at levels lower than the industry average for three consecutive years. Additionally, facilities cannot have a severe injury or fatality (SIF) during the award period. The OSHA metric ultimately determines only 40 percent of the application score. An independent panel of judges score of each facility’s

founder and CEO at SustainaBase, said. “We are thrilled to be a partner supporting Perdue’s continued journey towards sustainable agriculture and operations.”

The integration of SustainaBase’s carbon accounting technology is a key element in Perdue Farms’ broader stewardship initiatives, including reducing waste and water intensity and supporting regenerative farming practices, as the company continues its journey in developing a more sustainable future in delivering meaningful, measurable change, the company added.

Perdue facilities earn 39 workplace safety awards SALISBURY, Md. — Perdue Farms emerged as a leader in workplace safety by the 2024 Na-

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written explanation of its safety programs and processes comprises the majority (60 percent) of the award consideration. This year only 60 facilities (25 percent) of 244 facilities in four categories achieved a total score above 90 and the Award of Distinction.

Additional awards to Perdue included: Awards of Honor: Fifteen Perdue operations received this award, the council’s second highest honor. They include the food-producing operations at Cromwell Plant, Ky.; Georgetown Plant, Del.; Washington Plant, Ind.; Concord Plant, N.C.; support activities Mountain Valley Breeders, W.Va.; Beaver Dam Growout, Ky.; Delmarva Growout, Md.; Dillon Growout, S.C.; Draper Valley Ranch, Wash.; Fredericksburg Growout, Pa.; Nashville Breeders, Tenn.; Hurlock Feed Mill, Md.; Nashville Feed Mill, Tenn.; and Murfreesboro Hatchery, Tenn.; and Santa Rosa Hatchery, Calif.

Awards of Merit: Twelve facilities earned the Award of Merit.

They include food-producing plants in Petaluma, Calif.; Bridgewater, Va.; DeFuniak Springs, Fla.; Rockingham, N.C.; the company’s Innovation Center in Salisbury, Md.; hatchery operations in Halifax, N.C.; Forsyth, Ga.; and Salisbury, Md.; the following support activities Candor Growout, N.C.; Delmarva North Growout, Del.; Westover Research Farm, Md.; and Western, N.C., Breeders.

Cargill acquires feed mills in Colorado, Kansas MINNEAPOLIS — To grow with the ag retail and large ranching/ farming segments in the western and central regions of the U.S., Cargill has acquired two feed mills from Compana Pet Brands — one in Denver, Colo., and the other in Kansas City, Kan., the company announced, adding that with the addition of the two facilities, Cargill is better positioned to expand the production and distribution capabilities of

its Animal Nutrition and Health business in the U.S. The transaction finalized on Sept. 3, 2024. Terms were not disclosed.

“These two feed mills are a perfect fit for our Cargill Animal Nutrition and Health business in the U.S. to better position us for longterm growth of our full portfolio and serve a range of customers, from the larger farmer/rancher to the local retailer who sells horse treats and pet food,” Mariano Berdegue, Cargill’s senior vice president of its Animal Nutrition & Health Americas business, said.

With the Denver mill acquisition, Cargill welcomes more than 35 employees. The mill has dedicated packing lines, which allows for growth with ag retail customers who serve the backyard/hobby farmer and pet owner segments.

Cargill will also be able to meet the needs of large farming and ranching operations in the region with the expanded capacity and some additional investments in the operation. The goal is to make this facility a modernized, flagship feed mill.

The newly acquired Kansas

City mill is located close to Cargill’s Kansas City feed facility and enables the company to continue to be a key supplier in the area and grow with customers in the region.

“This transaction is mutually beneficial as Cargill will continue to manufacture our product,” Greg Pearson, Compana Pet Brands CEO, said. “We are excited to work together in the years ahead.”

These new acquisitions expand Cargill’s capabilities in feed production and distribution in the U.S., expanding their ability to offer world-class products, services, and solutions in animal nutrition, performance, and health for dairy, livestock, and lifestyle/pet feed segments, the company added.

and actions the AFIA is taking to address them.

The report provides an analysis of the animal food industry’s contribution to the U.S. and global economies and the forces creating an uncertain business climate, the association said, adding that it also provides an inside look at efforts underway to usher the federal regulation of animal food into the 21st century and steps the industry is taking to better protect animal and human health while

AFIA report details industry challenges and opportunities ARLINGTON, Va. — The American Feed Industry Association has released its annual, “Our Industry, Our Promise,” report detailing the operational challenges facing U.S. feed and pet food manufacturers

producing safer, more sustainable food.

“We owe the AFIA members and staff a debt of gratitude for their dedication to our industry and for encouraging us to continue improving and innovating.

Our future is bright, and it will be brighter with your participation,” Dr. Carlos González 2023-24 AFIA board chair and vice president of global regulatory affairs at Hill’s (Continued on next page)

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Pet Nutrition Inc. The report focuses on work completed during AFIA’s fiscal year from May 1, 2023, through April 30, 2024, with sections on: • The business climate for U.S. animal food manufacturers, including managing domestic supply chain challenges, resolving discrepancies between state and federal regulations, and advocating for modernized pet food labels.

• Animal food safety, including preparing manufacturing facilities for routine U.S. Food and Drug Administration inspections, safeguarding against potential animal disease outbreaks, protecting worker health, and calling for the continued safe use of formaldehyde in swine and poultry feed.

• Global policy challenges, including advocating for sound international policy at the national level and within global fora, holding U.S. trading partners accountable and opening new markets for U.S. animal food exporters in key countries.

• Industry progress in sustainability, including standing up for the animal food industry in international dialogues, sharing how feed is a solution to global food security and climate challenges as well as equipping members with resources needed to meet their customers’ and stakeholders’ sustainability pledges.

AFIA adds that the report also provides an update on its professional networking and educational offerings, recognizes several industry award winners, and acknowledges the ways the association has given back to local communities and engaged in social media.

For more information, visit www.afia.org/news/state-of-industry-report/.

Case Farms facilities receive 10 workplace safety awards TROUTMAN, N.C. — Ten Case Farms facilities, including three processing plants, three

feed mills and four hatcheries, were recognized recently by the Joint Industry Safety and Health Council for their outstanding performance through the implementation of innovative and effective employee safety and health programs.

Case Farms was honored at the 2024 National Safety Conference for the Poultry Industry, held in Destin, Fla. “Safety is intertwined with everything we do at Case Farms, every location, every team member,” Tyler Parlier, regional safety manager of Case Farms North Carolina Division, said. “To be recognized for our safe working practices is simply outstanding.

Several of our locations have received awards in safety for many consecutive years, proving that we are committed to working safely. The poultry industry has made great strides in safety and health over the past decade, and I am ecstatic that Case Farms is one of the companies leading the charge. Congratulations to the locations that were recognized and thank you for your continued efforts in making Case Farms a safe place to work.”

The company’s Morganton, N.C., and Winesburg Ohio, processing facilities received the highest Award of Distinction, as did the Massillon feed mill, Shelby feed mill, and the Strasburg hatchery. The Canton, Ohio, hatchery, Morganton N.C., hatchery and Goldsboro, N.C., hatchery received the council’s second highest honor, the Award of Honor, as did the Canton, Ohio, processing facility. The Goldsboro, N.C., feed mill also received this Award of Honor.

“Being recognized for these safety awards each year just shows how our safety culture continues to grow,” Jeffrey Shanabarger, regional safety manager of Case Farms Ohio Division, added. “We are very proud of these awards and what they represent in the industry, it’s all possible because of the dedication to safety from each of our associates from management on down. Thank you, Case family, for continuing to improve our safety culture and make safety our top priority each and every day.”

Award eligibility required these POULTRY TIMES

facilities to maintain their key Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety metrics — Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) and Days Away, Restricted or Transferred (DART) — at levels equal to or less than the industry average as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Award consideration is also based on each facility’s written explanation of its safety programs and processes.

The Joint Industry Safety and Health Council consists of members from the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, National Chicken Council and National Turkey Federation. Collectively, the three organizations represent companies that produce 95 percent of the nation’s poultry products and directly employ more than 350,000 workers.

IFEEDER releases new industry sustainability research and initiative materials ARLINGTON, Va. — The Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER) has taken another step toward advancing sustainability within the animal food industry with the release of new industry sustainability materials.

Representing both U.S. and Canadian industry members and stakeholders, these resources, developed in collaboration with the Context Network and the Animal Nutrition Association of Canada (ANAC), include findings from a comprehensive landscape assessment of industry sustainability practices and a literature database of how animal performance is impacted by novel feed ingredients.

“These resources are designed to address the need for efficient, and effective tools for measuring, reporting and verifying sustainability efforts,” Lara Moody, IFEEDER executive director, said.

“By engaging our animal food customers and considering how we can help them achieve their environmental footprint goals, 16

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we will be better equipped to make informed decisions and meet their sustainability objectives.”

During the second phase of the Sustainability Road Map project, IFEEDER, ANAC and the Context Network collaborated with partners across the animal food industry to achieve several objectives. An objective included aligning and ensuring industrywide consistency in how data is measured, reported and verified across indicators and metrics important to the industry and its customers.

The project also sought to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of life cycle assessments (LCAs), thereby supporting the industry and its customers in their sustainability efforts. In addition, the project focused on assessing and considering the environmental benefits of innovations in areas such as animal food ration development, ingredients and additives, which are essential for stakeholders aiming to meet corporate sustainability commitments.

The first phase of the Sustainability Road Map initiative laid the groundwork by defining “sustainability” for the animal food industry and creating the Animal Food Industry Sustainability Toolkit, a resource for animal food industry companies establishing or advancing internal sustainability programs. The insights gained during this phase identified several critical knowledge and data gaps, which the new materials aim to address.

As part of phase two of the Sustainability Road Map project, the following resources have been added to the Animal Food Industry Sustainability Toolkit: • Results of a matrix assessment, documenting common themes among the metrics tracked throughout the animal agriculture industry.

• Insights from interviews with allied organizations on current data collection and information management practices.

• A strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis of current sustainability practices within the North American animal food industry.

• Findings from a literature

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review and a comprehensive database, which assess animal performance metrics relative to environmental footprint reduction benefits.

IFEEDER also recently added an additional toolkit resource that defines 16 issue areas material to the animal food industry sustainability, providing industry examples and tangible benefits.

For more information, visit www.ifeeder.org.

CoBank: soybean export sales drop to historic low, but could see rebound DENVER — Global demand for U.S. soybeans has fallen sharply as international buyers remain discouraged by a strong dollar, slowing economic growth and uncertainty over the direction of U.S. trade policy in an election year, analysts at CoBank said, adding that, export sales of newcrop soybeans are historically low

as the U.S. enters the 2024/25 soybean marketing year on Sept. 1.

However, several tailwinds could emerge to rejuvenate demand for U.S. soybeans in the marketing year ahead.

According to a new research brief from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, the pace of early season soybean export sales historically has a low correlation with final export numbers for the marketing year. With a record U.S. soybean harvest expected this fall, continued weakness in prices will likely attract new export demand.

“The U.S. soybean export program faces a number of obstacles in the weeks and months ahead, particularly with flagging demand from China,” Tanner Ehmke, lead grain and oilseed economist for CoBank, said. “But a slow start to the export sales pace does not necessarily mean it will be bad year for U.S. soybean exports. We see the potential for several developments that could bolster exports later in the year.”

The peak shipping period for U.S. soybeans runs from September to December, with typically

more than half of all shipments for the season occurring in those four months before the arrival of the South American harvest.

China typically accounts for the majority of U.S. soybean export sales. Following record imports from Brazil, Chinese bookings of new-crop U.S. soybeans are among the lowest levels in two decades. China is not alone in their current reluctance to buy U.S. soybeans. Total U.S. newcrop export sales are the lowest since 2008, aside from the trade war low in 2019, CoBank added.

Ehmke pointed to four key factors that could reverse the lackluster pace of soybean exports.

A smaller-than-expected South American soybean harvest, a bump in European demand for soybeans from non-deforested acreage, falling interest rates in the U.S., and a recovery of the Chinese economy could all fuel increased export demand for U.S. soybeans in the year ahead.

USDA is currently forecasting a record Brazilian soybean crop of 169 MMT (million metric tons).

However, low prices may discourage Brazilian farmers from

expanding soybean acreage as planting begins in the coming weeks. La Niña to also expected to emerge this September, which could negatively impact Brazilian soybean yields, CoBank noted.

New European demand for U.S. soybeans is also expected to emerge when rules surrounding imports and deforestation take effect, CoBank added. Beginning Dec. 30, 2024, new imports into the EU must be certified to have come from land that was not deforested in the past decade. That gives soybeans of U.S. origin an advantage over South American soybeans in the European market.

An economic recovery in China could lead to an acceleration of soybean purchases, CoBank analysts said. The Chinese government is expected to aggressively lower interest rates in an attempt to stimulate the country’s sagging economy. An economic boost that raises consumer demand for meat in China could lift demand for soybeans and soybean meal.

Finally, interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve may also (Continued on next page)

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drive money back into emerging markets like Brazil, strengthening Brazil’s currency against the U.S. dollar, CoBank said, adding that a stronger Brazilian real versus the U.S. dollar will give U.S. soybeans an advantage in the export market.

Simmons Foods announces donation to Northwest Arkansas Food Bank SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. — Earlier this summer, Simmons Foods announced it will be providing a $100,000 donation to support the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank, which will be paid out over four years beginning this year.

The food bank, which serves four counties in Northwest Arkansas, recently moved into the new Claude and Betty Harris Center for Hunger Relief which will broaden its impact in the area. In 2023, the Food Bank distributed 14,059,490 pounds of food and provided more than

11.7 million meals in the fourcounty area.

“We are grateful to Simmons Foods for recognizing the ongoing need for food assistance in

our community,” Julie Damer, director of marketing and communications, Northwest Arkansas Food Bank, said. “This donation will help ensure our neighbors in the Northwest Arkansas region will continue to have access to food. We appreciation their support of our organization.”

“Our purpose at Simmons Foods is to build strong relationships through food,” Russell Tooley, Simmons Foods chief administrative officer, said. “We are proud to partner with the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank to provide food assistance to those in need and help promote strong and healthy families, a focus area of Simmons Giving.”

Tyson Foods names Calaway its chief financial officer SPRINGDALE, Ark. — Tyson Foods Inc. announces that Curt Calaway has been named chief financial officer, effective immediately. Calaway has been with the company since 2006, most recently serving as interim chief POULTRY TIMES

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financial officer. Calaway will report directly to Donnie King, Tyson Foods president and CEO. Calaway has nearly 30 years of experience in finance, audit and accounting. Prior to being named interim CFO, Calaway served as the CFO for Tyson Foods’ Prepared Foods Business Unit and was also responsible for the company’s Mergers & Acquisitions and corporate development efforts. Calaway served as senior vice president of finance and treasurer, where he led investor relations, treasury, corporate finance, corporate financial planning and accounting, M&A, corporate development, and supply chain finance.

Calaway has held various leadership roles with the company during his 18-year tenure, including controller, chief accounting officer and vice president of audit and compliance.

“Curt is a proven leader with deep industry knowledge and a wealth of experience in financial strategy and reporting,” King said. “I am confident Curt will continue to help drive our operational excellence and shareholder value.”

Calaway succeeds John R. Tyson, who remains with the company but is currently on healthrelated leave.

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Chick-fil-A Shared Table food donation program surpasses 30 million meals ATLANTA — Chick-fil-A Inc. announces that the Chick-fil-A Shared Table® food donation program has provided more than 30 million meals to local communities in need across the United States and Canada, while also helping the company surpass its 2025 corporate social responsibility goal to divert 25 million pounds of food waste from landfills one year ahead of schedule. This significant achievement underscores the company’s commitment to fighting hunger and food insecurity while also demonstrating environmental stewardship, Chick-fil-A added.

Feeding America® estimates that 44 million Americans, including 13 million children, are food insecure — lacking access to sufficient food or food of adequate quality to meet one’s basic needs. Chick-fil-A Shared Table empowers local Chick-filA owner-operators to address this issue through donating surplus food from their restaurants to local community partners to

help people facing hunger.

Chick-fil-A added that it also works with Food Donation Connection and Second Harvest to connect local owner-operators with these organizations, and more than 2,200 restaurants participate in the program.

Since 2012, shelters, meal programs and other organizations have transformed donated surplus food items — like chicken, fruit, biscuits, salads and more — into meals for those affected by food insecurity, the company said, adding that repurposing extra food that would otherwise go to waste helps Chick-fil-A reduce its environmental footprint while making a meaningful impact in addressing hunger and food insecurity within local communities.

“The heart of the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program lies with our local restaurant owner-operators and the unique partnerships they develop with nonprofits in their communities to feed people in need,” Andrew T. Cathy, CEO of Chick-fil-A Inc., said. “Like so many of the best ideas at Chick-fil-A, Shared Table began in our operator community, and today, many of our Chick-fil-A local owner-operaPOULTRY TIMES

tors choose to participate out of a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the communities they serve. That’s what makes the program so successful.”

By the numbers: • 38.6+ million pounds of food waste diverted from landfills by Chick-fil-A Inc. and Chick-fil-A restaurants since 2020 • 2,200 Chick-fil-A restaurants participating in the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program • 30 million meals created for individuals in need through the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program since 2012 • 1,200+ nonprofit organizations across the U.S. and Canada engaged in the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program • 44 million Americans — including 13 million children — are food insecure (Source: Feeding America) • 15.9 percent of households in Canada — equating to approximately 5.8 million people — lack adequate access to food (Source: Canadian Public Health Organization) • 160 billion pounds of food is estimated to be wasted each year in the U.S. alone (Source: ReFED) “Donating extra food from Chick-fil-A restaurants to help 19

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those in need is not only the right thing to do, but an incredible opportunity for us as a restaurant company to impact our local communities,” Matt DeMicheleRigoni, local owner-operator of Chick-fil-A Copley Square in Boston, said. “Addressing hunger and food insecurity in our local neighborhoods is one of the best ways that Chick-fil-A can show care for others throughout the communities we serve.”

To further the company’s commitment to fighting hunger and reducing food insecurity, Chick-fil-A, Inc. donates $25,000 to Feeding America or Second Harvest in Canada, with the aim of funds being distributed to partners within the restaurant’s community to create positive local impact, the company added.

Additional sustainability efforts — such as composting and utilizing aerobic food digesters — have also played a role in maximizing the effectiveness of the brand’s food waste diversion efforts, the company said. Earlier this year, Chick-fil-A joined the U.S. Food Waste Pact, signing a national voluntary agreement to help food businesses accelerate progress toward their waste reduction targets.

Does poultry litter contain weed seeds?

BY DR. BRIAN FAIRCHILD & DR. GARRET ASHABRANNER

University of Georgia

ATHENS, Ga. — It is not uncommon to see weeds sprout after applying broiler litter to a field. As a result, it seems logical to conclude that there are weed seeds in the broiler litter. But is this true?

Poultry litter is not like cattle manure or the droppings from wild or backyard birds. Ruminant manure can contain seeds that pass through the digestive tract from their forage. Likewise, wild birds and backyard flocks with free range to scavenge can pass seeds through their droppings.

Broiler litter is comprised of, predominantly, manure and bedding; neither should contain very many seeds. In fact, several studies have found that broiler litter does not contain viable seeds (Williams & Williams, 1994; McGrath, 2009).

ing litter?

All soils contain dormant seeds unless sterilized. Studies have shown depending on location and soil conditions there can be between 50-15,000 seeds per square foot of soil waiting to germinate (Figure 1).

It is in the genes of weeds to sprout in favorable conditions and out compete the plants around them. Many weed seeds can lay dormant for over 50 years. An ongoing study from Michigan State has shown that mullein seeds can last over 100 years in the ground. Most of the grasses grown in pastures are domesticated perennials that grow slower and need maintenance.

Most weeds are wild annuals; that means they germinate, mature, then set seed and distribute thousands of seeds sometimes twice as fast as the forage crop (Figure 2). So, when we apply poultry litter to a field, we are stimulating dormant seeds to germinate.

So why exactly does poultry

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Figure 1: Example of dormant weed seed profile in soil.

First, weed seed contamina- not normally contain any weed tion Uzelac of grain isIndustries typically low at Technically, weeds is aseeds. major supplier of could 1.9 percent. We then crush, mill, be introduced into a stack house Rotary Drying Systems to animals the poultry steam, and pelletize the grain, through wild and/or by destroying those very few weed seeds being carried by industry, including for such notablethe wind, seeds that might have been in- but these seeds are in such small clients astheHerbruck’s Poultry Ranch, corporated with grain. Bed- amounts that they can rarely be dingMichael materials like shavings, identified.

So where do these Foods, Foster Farms peanut hulls, or rice hulls would weeds come from after apply-

and Tyson, building custom

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litter stimulate germination?

We apply litter to our fields as a source of plant nutrients. Litter provides the “big three”: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as the micro-nutrients that are still essential to plant growth, like calcium, magnesium, sulfur, etc.

Seeds do not spontaneously germinate; they germinate when the conditions are right for the plant to grow and reproduce. Inevitably, many seeds are driven to germinate simply because there is higher soil fertility after litter is applied. Poultry manure also contains organic acids which are continually made as the manure decays. The dormant seed coating can be weakened by these organic acids, leading them to germinate. Inevitably weed seeds sprout in pastures due to the presence of higher fertility and organic acids, not because there are weed seeds in poultry litter.

If you are on the fence about all this, test it by mixing commercial poultry litter in some sterile potting soil and then watch what grows.

A simple demonstration was conducted to investigate the theory that litter does not contain seeds (see Figure 3). Four cups were used in the demonstration. Two cups were filled with sterilized potting soil, and two cups were filled with sterilized potting soil and broiler litter (representing an application rate of 30 tons per acre). Mustard seeds were planted in one cup with the sterilized potting soil and one cup with the litter pot-

UGA

Figure 2: Germination rate of typical weed and grass seeds.

ting soil mixture.

The results were intriguing: the cups without any introduced seeds did not show any signs of growth. However, in contrast, the cups containing mustard seeds, whether in potting soil or the soil/litter mixture, exhibited successful germination. In summary, the demonstration confirmed that litter alone may not contain viable seeds. Nevertheless, when viable seeds were introduced into the potting soil or the soil/litter mixture, they

demonstrated successful germination.

In the end, poultry litter is a good source of primary and secondary plant nutrients. Additionally, poultry manure adds organic matter and beneficial microorganisms that improve soil health.

Good pasture, grazing, and weed management should be utilized when using both commercial fertilizers and poultry manure. We shouldn’t be afraid to spread poultry manure on

fields for fear of weed seeds.

Dr. Brian Fairchild is an Extension poultry scientist with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Cooperative Extension.

Dr. Garret Ashabranner, a former UGA Ph.D. candidate, is a staff fellow animal scientist with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

More information can be obtained at www.poultryventilation.com.

Figure 3: A.) Potting soil. B.) Potting soil with seeds. C.) Potting soil mixed with broiler litter. D.) Potting soil mixed with broiler litter and seeds.

UGA

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Pescatore honored with first PSA James H. Denton Distinguished Service Award

BY CHRISTOPHER CARNEY

University of Kentucky

Photo by Lyndsey Johnston / Poultry Science Association

Dr. Anthony (Tony) Pescatore, left, recently received the Poultry Science Association’s first James H. Denton Distinguished Service Award.

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LEXINGTON, Ky. — University of Kentucky Extension professor and Department of Animal and Food Sciences Associate Chair Anthony (Tony) Pescatore is the first recipient of the James H. Denton Distinguished Service Award from the Poultry Science Association.

Pescatore was recently honored in Louisville, Ky., at the 2024 Annual PSA Meeting. The PSA is a world-leading professional association dedicated to poultry science.

Pescatore was recognized for his decades of significant and continuous service to PSA’s success and advancement, along with his years of dedication to the poultry science industry and Extension efforts at UK MartinGatton College of Agriculture,

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Food and Environment. This service award was recently created and named after poultry science service pioneer James H. Denton, Pescatore’s mentor while receiving his doctorate at Texas A&M University.

Pescatore was the first to receive this service award by the PSA, and being named after his most influential mentor in front of his colleagues was truly a momentous occasion.

Since his first presentation as a student member at the 1977 PSA meeting, Pescatore has served in numerous capacities within the Poultry Science Association. He was elected second PSA vice president in 2001 and served as president in 2004. Pescatore served on the Board of Trustees for the PSA Foundation three times.

In 1996 Pescatore was elected to the PSA Board of Directors. and has been the Parliamentarian at the business meeting for more than a decade. Throughout his career, he has written or coauthored more than 220 abstracts presented at PSA conferences.

In 2000, he served as program chair elect. He also served as program chair for the 2001 joint PSA/ American Society of Animal Science/American Dairy Science Association/American Meat Science Association meeting.

Pescatore is a Fellow of the Poultry Science Association, receiving both the Pfizer Extension Award in 1993 and the Phibro Extension Award in 2015. He serves on the Board of Directors for the PSA Foundation and the World Poultry Science Association-USA branch.

• Decades of dedication to the poultry industry Pescatore has been with the University of Kentucky and UK Cooperative Extension Service for more than three decades, providing program support in the areas of management, biosecurity, environmental issues and animal welfare. His specific research interests include environmental nutrition, poultry management and alternative production systems.

Pescatore has co-authored over 100 scientific articles, extension publications and conference proceedings. During his UK tenure, Pescatore worked with local and state government to recruit poultry operations to Kentucky which helped increase from a $25 mil-

“My purpose has been to make the poultry industry sustainable, efficient and profitable while respecting our environment.”

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lion to $1.2 billion industry.

At UK, Pescatore received the 2014 M.D. Whiteker Award for Excellence in Extension Programming from UK. He twice served as president of the Federation of Animal Science Societies.

Pescatore will soon be retiring as a faculty member, Extension professor and Department of Animal and Food Sciences associate chair at the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. During his tenure, Pescatore was part of a regional group working to reduce farmer stress, he led programs to train veterinarians in backyard chicken flock care, helped poultry growers access accordable energy, trained on basics for safe use of poultry liter, provided expertise on protecting poultry flocks from the avian influenza outbreak and much more.

Pescatore emphasizes the importance of service and why the poultry industry is so critical to feeding Kentucky and beyond.

“As faculty, we all have a service component and providing meaningful service to others is our goal,” Pescatore said. “My purpose has been to make the poultry industry sustainable, efficient and profitable while respecting our environment. Poultry are the most efficient animals for creating protein and we have a lot of people in the world to feed.”

To learn more about the Animal and Food Sciences Department at Martin-Gatton CAFE, visit https://afs.ca.uky.edu; and for more information about the PSA, visit www.poultryscience.org.

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MTGA & MTRPC announce scholarship recipients ALEXANDRIA, Minn. — The Minnesota Turkey Growers Association and the Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council have announced the recipients of its 2024 Ranelius Scholarships: T.J. Mitchell and Brooke Sorah. These scholarships, named after Sven Ranelius, a founding member of both MTGA and MTRPC, aim to recognize and support youth in the Midwest who are pursuing a future career in the poultry industry, encouraging more young individuals to explore turkey as a career path.

During the awards luncheon at the recent 2024 MTGA Summer Summit, Executive Director Ashley Kohls highlighted the significance of the Ranelius Sorah Scholarship.

“The Ranelius Scholarship recognizes youth in the Midwest pursuing a future career in the poultry industry with the goal of encouraging more youth to explore turkey as a career path,” Kohls said. “During the application process, applicants highlight their high school and college activities, detail their career aspirations, and emphasize how their college program will help them achieve their goals. Lastly, they are asked to write an essay

MTGA

T.J. Mitchell, a student from Appleton, Minn., is one of the recipients of this year’s Minnesota Turkey Growers Association and Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council’s Ranelius Scholarships. Presenting Mitchell with the honor during the recent Summer Summit is Loren (Butch) Brey, Brey Farms, MTRPC president.

on an industry issue – this year, focusing on how to best promote turkey products to consumers.”

T.J. Mitchell, a senior in high school from Appleton, Minn., was one of this year’s recip-

ients. Mitchell’s father, Brad Mitchell, operates Shadowland Dairy Farm. Mitchell is currently enrolled at Southwest Minnesota State University, where he will be majoring in agribusiness management and playing football in the fall. During his high school tenure, he participated in FFA, National Honors Society, trapshooting, and was a three-sport athlete.

He plans on using his agribusiness degree to better understand the agribusiness side of the poultry industry and potentially work with his father’s business to create drivable poultry mortality carts, the associations noted.

In his written essay, Mitchell highlighted the health benefits of turkey as a low calorie, lean, protein. He suggested rebranding turkey as “the healthy, affordable, go-to meat for all individuals who care about their health.” Additionally, he encouraged sponsoring professional athletes to help reach the right demographic.

Brooke Sorah, the second recipient, is a sophomore at the University of WisconsinRiver Falls. Sorah, the daughter of Barb Dahn and John Sorah, is majoring in animal science with an emphasis on poultry science and is currently attending the Midwest Poultry Consortium’s Center of Excellence program.

She is an active member of the UWRF Poultry (Continued on next page)

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Nine deaths, more issues linked to recent Boar’s Head meat recall PT

ELIZABETH BOBENHAUSEN

Poultry Times staff ebobenhausen@ poultrytimes.com

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — The major meat brand, Boar’s Head, has been suspected of violating several federal regulations at its Virgina plant. According to the Associated Press, it was found that the plant contained mold, insects, and a liquid dripping from the ceilings. The plant also had meat and fat residue on the walls, floors and equipment reports said.

The company is tied to an upsurge in listeria cases that has infected 57 people and killed 9. CBS reported cases have been found in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin.

Some people are suing Boar’s Head. Sue Fleming is suing the company because she was hospitalized for a week with a listeria infection. Ashley Solberg is also suing the brand after contracting the illness while she was pregnant. She said in a lawsuit she, “nearly lost her unborn child.”

“Listeria is a hardy germ that can remain on surfaces such as meat slicers and foods, even when refrigerated,” CBS news reported. “It can take up to 10 weeks for some people to develop symptoms of listeriosis. Listeria spreads easily among equipment, surfaces, hands and food. The bacteria can contaminate many (Continued from previous page)

Judging team, Falcon Shooting sports, and serves as a Girl Scouts leader, the associations noted.

As to increasing turkey demand and promoting the products, Sorah’s advice is to meet consumers where their concerns are. By using social media outlets, the industry could increase education to consumers, focusing on health

foods, and listeria infection is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the U.S. Each year an estimated 1,600 Americans are infected with listeria and 260 die from it.”

Women who are pregnant, people over the age of 65 and people with comprised immune systems are more susceptible to contract the bacteria. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance or seizures. Listeria can cause a loss of pregnancy or the death of an infant. A CBS report added that, “the infection is typically diagnosed with a sample from an ill person’s body fluid or tissue, and treatment depends on the severity of the illness. People with diarrhea should drink lots of fluids to prevent dehydration.

Those with an invasive illness are treated with antibiotics.”

In July, the USDA announced Boar’s Head expanded its recall policy of deli meat products. It included 71 products that were manufactured between May 10, 2024, and July 29, 2024. In a test, the Maryland Department of Health found that liverwurst contained a strain of Listeria monocytogenes. Recalled items under the brand names Boar’s Head and Old Country consisted of, “meat intended for slicing at retail delis as well as some packaged meat and poultry products sold at retail locations.

These products have “Sell By” dates ranging from “29-JUL2024” through “17-OCT-24.” The food items have numbers that say “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA inspection label. benefits and environmental sustainability of the industry.

She is currently interning with Hy-Line North America and was unable to attend the luncheon due to conflicts with her internship.

For more information about the Ranelius Scholarship and the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association, visit www.minnesotaturkey.com/scholarships.

AP photo/Steve Helber

This sign marks the entrance of the Boar’s Head processing plant in Jarratt, Va., that was tied to a deadly food poisoning outbreak, in an Associated Press photo taken on Aug. 29.

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Calendar SEPTEMBER

SEPT 30-Oct. 2 — 59th NATIOdNAL MEETING on POULTRY HEALTH, PROCESSING and LIVE PRODUCTION, Roland E. Powell Convention Center, Ocean City, Md. Contact: Delmarva LED by Innovation Chicken Association, 16686 County Seat Hwy., Georgetown, Del. 19947; Ph: 302-856-9037; www.dcachicken. com.

tact: Kirsten Schutt, United Egg Producers, kschutt@unitedegg.com; Veronica Rovelli, American Egg Board, meetings@aeb.org.

OCT 16-17 — POULTRY PROTEIN & FAT SEMINAR, Embassy Suites Downtown, Nashville, Tenn. Contact: USPOULTRY, 1530 Cooledge Road, Tucker, Ga. 30084; Ph: 770-493-9401; seminar@uspoultry. org; www.uspoultry.org.

OCT 17 — NCC ANNUAL CONFERENCE, Washington, D.C. Contact: Nation Chicken Council, 1152 15th Street NW, Suite 430, Washington, D.C. 20005; Ph: 202-2962622; E-mail: pburko@chickenusa. org; www.nationalchickencouncil. org.

OCT 19 — GEORGIA POULTRY STRONG, Lake Lanier Islands, Buford, Ga. Contact: Georgia Poultry Federation, P.O. Box 763, Gainesville, Ga. 30503.

Ph: 770-532-0473; Email: laurabeth@gapf.org; www. gapf.org.

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OCT 7-10 — POULTRY SYMPOSIUM, Rogers Convention Center, Rogers, Ark. Contact: The Poultry Federation, 321 South Victory Street, Little Rock, Ark. 72201; Ph: 501-375-8131; info@thepoultryfederation. com; www.thepoultryfederaiton.com.

OCT 9-11 — PROTEIN PACT SUMMIT, JW Marriott, Austin, Texas. Contact: North American Meat Institute, 1150 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20036; Ph: 202587-4200; www.meatinstitute.org.

OCT 10 — AFIA/KSU-500, Fundamentals of Feed Manufacturing. Online course runs through Nov. 5, 2024. Contact: American Feed Industry Association, 2101 Wilson Blvd., Suite 810, Arlington, Va. 22201. Ph: 703-524-0810; www.afia.org.

OCT 14-17 — AEB & UEP JOINT ANNUAL EXECUTIVE CONFERENCE 2024, The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Colo. Con-

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JAN 27-30 — NPFDA ANNUAL CONVENTION & SHOWCASE, Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Atlanta, Ga. Contact: National Protein & Food Distributors Association, 2014 Osborne Road, Saint Marys, Ga. 31558; Ph: 912-439-3603; www. npfda.org.

JAN 28-30 — IPPE (INTERNATIONAL PRODUCTION & PROCESSING EXPO), Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Ga. Contact: USPOULTRY, 1530 Cooledge Rd., Tucker, Ga. 30084; Ph: 770-4939401; info@ippexpo.org; www.ippexpo.org.

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LOCOMOS has been tested in tomato, potato, blueberry and other field crops. MSU has teamed up with five farms within the state to test how LOCOMOS does in corn and soybean fields. The research is ongoing; however, the system has shown to improve irrigation on the farms.

In the corn and soybean fields, Doug said, “LOCOMOS has enhanced irrigation water use efficiency while not increasing disease incidence. Compared to the growers’ typical irrigation schedule, LOCOMOS boosted profits for a 100-acre field by $7,700 for corn and $1,300 for soybeans each year. The profits included improved yields and reduced energy costs associated

to growers via an easy-to-use smartphone app. The developPoultry Times staff ment of the system and app was ebobenhausen@ facilitated through a partnerpoultrytimes.com ship with the MSU Innovation GAINESVILLE, Ga. — For crop Center.”

“The commercial-grade monfarmers, one of the most difficult weather elements to deal itoring systems are expensive with is rain. Sometimes it rains and thus not accessible to most too much, overruns the soil and farmers,” Doug said. “The data W Dimm models cause diseases to become ram- they generate can also be difNon Dim models pant among crops. Other times ficult to interpret. A simpler it rains too little, and plants system that uses low-cost senwill not grow to their full size. sors was needed, and LOCOMOS with Junction MichiganBoxes. has been dealt both can be used with a smartphone, which almost all farmers can extremes this year. tar Approved for rebates easily access today.”

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PT

ELIZABETH BOBENHAUSEN

with pumping water.”

The tomato fields showed promising results as the new method cut down the water usage by 30 percent, opposed to the farmer’s regular irrigation technique. Mark Seamon, research director for the Michigan Soybean Committee, said “initial results look promising in using these tools in commercial fields.

The responsible use of water and the cost of irrigation are both critical in irrigating any crop.

Soybeans’ response to irrigation can be more complex than some other crops, so stewardship of resources and finances is especially relevant.”

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Unique chicken breed advances research on human autoimmune disease vitiligo

BY JOHN LOVETT

University of Arkansas

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — A unique chicken breed is helping researchers better understand vitiligo, an autoimmune disease that affects 1-2 percent of the world’s population.

In vitiligo, the immune system attacks cells called melanocytes, causing skin pigment to disappear.

The effects are more than skin deep.

“Autoimmune diseases are multifactorial and non-communicable, and one is often associated with other autoimmune disorders. They call it the kaleidoscope of autoimmunity,” Dr. Gisela Erf, professor of immunology with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, said. “Vitiligo in humans, is strongly associated with autoimmune thyroiditis where the thyroid gland becomes attacked by the immune system, and that’s in our vitiligo birds, too.”

Why chickens?

Erf studies the disease using a rare vitiligo-prone chicken breed called the Smyth line, the only animal model for vitiligo that shares all the characteristics of the human condition. These include the spontaneous loss of melanocytes, interactions between genetic, environmental, and immunological factors that drive disease expression, and associations with other autoimmune diseases.

Research with the Smyth line helps scientists observe immune responses that are relatable to humans. Erf recently published a study in Frontiers in Immunology titled “Spontaneous immunological activities in the target tissue of vitiligo-prone Smyth and vitiligo-susceptible Brown lines of chicken,” which was co-authored

by Erf’s former graduate students, Daniel M. Falcon and Kristen A. Byrne, and program associate Marites A. Sales.

The study identified the immune mechanisms behind the onset of vitiligo, which could one day inform the development of effective preventative and therapeutic measures for humans.

U of A System Division of Agriculture photo by Paden Johnson

Vitiligo research: Dr. Gisela Erf, University of Arkansas professor of immunology, holds a Smyth line rooster whose white feathers are the result of vitiligo. The Smyth line, and its parental Brown line, are used to study the autoimmune disease that affects humans.

autoimmune response in the feather pulp, Erf developed this tissue as a skin test-site — a “living test-tube,” she calls it — and a minimally invasive procedure to study immune responses to injected vaccines and other antigens. She has since patented this method.

“The method came out of these vitiligo studies, and it has been an incredibly successful technique, in my opinion, to study these very complex inflammatory responses where the cells get recruited from the blood to the site of infection or injection,” Erf said.

Examining growing feathers from the Brown line also revealed immune cells entering the pulp, but these cells exhibited antiinflammatory immune activities, which may be responsible for preventing vitiligo development in these chickens, Erf added.

The researchers also detected positive correlations that indicate an immune response with regulatory T cells, which stop vitiligo development and killing of the melanocytes.

In the Smyth line, approximately one month before vitiligo

Erf conducts research through the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station as a faculty member of the Center of Excellence for Poultry Science. She holds the Tyson Endowed Professorship in Avian Immunology and teaches classes through the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences at the University of Arkansas. The experiment station is the research arm of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

Finding answers in feathers Erf’s study compared the immune responses in the Smyth line to its parental Brown line, which is susceptible to vitiligo but much less likely to develop the disease.

A unique feature of this animal model is that the melanocytecontaining target tissue — the “pulp” of small growing feathers — is easily accessible. Scientists can sample it many times before and during the onset and progression of the disease without harming the bird, Erf said.

In fact, based on studying the POULTRY TIMES

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becomes visible, an increase in the expression of specific immune regulatory genes was observed.

The study states that this early immune activity might play a role in triggering the disease. Overall, their findings align with observations in human studies, with the added benefit of new insights into events before the onset of the disease, Erf noted.

This latest study suggests the different responses in Smyth and Brown line chickens could lead to new ways of understanding how the immune system decides between attacking or tolerating melanocytes, Erf said. And that could lead to significant advancements in the treatment of autoimmune diseases like vitiligo.

The Smyth chicken was first identified by J. Robert Smyth in 1977 at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Erf, who knew Smyth, has worked with the Smyth line since 1989 and maintains the only known research breeding flock in the world.

John Lovett is a science writer with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

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