7 | NCC joins other associations in effort to avert a port strike
Business Features
12 | Farmers need Congress to do its job
Calendar
OCTOBER
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: 202-587-4200;
21 | UGA to conduct Cold Weather Poultry Management workshop
26 | New studies show eating eggs may support brain health
On the cover
COLD WEATHER PREPARATION
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: 703-524-0810; www. afia.org.
OCT 14-17 — AEB & UEP JOINT ANNUAL EXECUTIVE CONFERENCE 2024, The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Colo. Contact: Kirsten Schutt, United Egg Producers, kschutt@unitedegg.com; Veronica Rovelli, American Egg Board, meetings@aeb.org.
Viewpoints
“Farmers and ranchers are facing inflation just like every other American family, but we also face the impact of severe weather, plummeting crop prices, and constant changes in regulatory requirements.”
— Zippy Duvall | 10
23 | Common mistakes when installing controller temperature sensors
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NCC joins other associations in effort to avert a port strike
BY DAVID B. STRICKLAND Poultry Times Editor
dstrickland@ poultrytimes.com
GAINESVILLE, Ga. — The National Chicken Council joins in on a letter sent to President Biden in conjunction with 176 other national and state agricultural and trade associations about a strike potentially beginning on Oct. 1 by the International Longshoremen’s Association at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports if new agreements are not met.
This letter noted that, “On behalf of the undersigned organizations representing manufacturers, farmers and agribusinesses, wholesalers, retailers, restaurants, importers, exporters, distributors, transportation and logistics providers, and other supply chain stakeholders, we are writing to you again expressing significant concern about the state of negotiations between the (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to help them return to the bargaining table to restart stalled nego-
tiations.”
“This labor contract, which covers all maritime container ports along the East and Gulf coasts, is set to expire on Sept. 30, 2024. The ILA has repeatedly threatened a coastwide strike if a new agreement is not reached by Oct. 1 … we call upon the administration to immediately work with both parties to resume contract negotiations and ensure there is no disruption to port operations and cargo fluidity if a new contract is not reached by the expiration date,” the letter added.
The USMX has issued its own statement regarding this association coalition letter.
“The only way to resolve this impasse is to resume negotiations, which we are willing to do at any time,” USMX noted. “USMX is in strong agreement with the 177 trade associations who are calling for the immediate resumption of negotiations with the ILA to work out a new Master Contract agreement that recognizes their vital contributions, while avoiding an unnecessary and disruptive strike that would
be harmful to all parties.”
“We understand and appreciate the concern from these trade associations, who realize what is at stake if negotiations are unable to progress, and we call on the ILA to return to bargaining so we can reach a new deal before the expiration of our current agreement, something we continue to believe is possible if the other side is willing to meet,” USMX added.
The ILA has released several statements, but in one directed to USMX it notes that the maritime alliance is making a “misleading statement.”
“USMX claims to offer industry-leading wages. However, their interpretation of ‘leading wages’ is polar opposite to ours,” ILA said in its statement. “Inflation has completely eaten into any raises and wages. Everything has become more expensive, even compared to six years ago. Our members are struggling to pay their mortgages, rent, car payments, groceries, utility bills, taxes, and in some cases, their children’s education. USMX’s corporate greed has made them delusional
— profits over people. They have taken advantage of a low entry wage and a tiered progression system for 30 years. We outright reject their position on the new entry wage.”
“Our work is in a shape industry; we are at the beck and call of the ships,” ILA added. “No ships mean no work. The only guarantees our workers have are hourly, daily, or shift guarantees. Our rank-and-file members not on salary — they work when the ships are docked at the berth, and only if their seniority affords them the opportunity … This propaganda from USMX is exactly what we predicted weeks ago. It’s also incredibly insulting that they think our members aren’t smart enough to see through their tactics.”
For West Coast ports, it’s noted that a strike was prevented in 2023 during labor negotiations.
“The ILA most definitely will hit the streets on Oct. 1 if we don’t get the kind of contract we deserve … Mark my words, we’ll shut them down,” Harold Daggett, ILA president, said in a video statement.
“We have tremendous respect for the ILA and its members, but it is disappointing that we have reached this point where the ILA is unwilling to reopen dialogue unless all of its demands are met,” USMX added.
NCC requests comment period extension on Salmonella Framework proposals
BY DAVID B. STRICKLAND Poultry Times Editor dstrickland@
poultrytimes.com
WASHINGTON — On Sept. 13, the National Chicken Council requested an additional 90-day extension for the comment period to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service’s proposed Salmonella Framework, citing unanswered questions and recent unfulfilling public meetings.
When the USDA announced in its Constituent Update two webinars with the focus of sharing the science behind the framework for raw poultry products, NCC noted its approval, noting that this would be an opportunity to learn more about the models, reports and complex risk assessments, as well as an opportunity for participants to ask technical and clarifying questions.
“Unfortunately, these webinars failed to provide meaningful insights or clarification on most of the clarifying and technical questions asked by participants, including representatives from very small, small, and large establishments, public health officials, trade association representatives, and other stakeholders,” Dr. Ashley Peterson, NCC’s senior
Calendar
OCTOBER
vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs, said in a letter to the agency.
“NCC and our member companies made great efforts to develop and submit questions that would have been very helpful in aiding the industry’s understanding of the proposal,” Peterson added. “However, these webinars failed to fulfill their announced goal, as most clarifying and technical questions remain unanswered. In sum, it is evident that there are more questions than answers at this point. The lack of clarity around many aspects of
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. Contact: Kirsten Schutt, United Egg Producers,
the proposal directly impedes NCC’s and our members’ ability to meaningfully comment on the proposal.”
Also, earlier in September, the council noted that Congressional Chicken Caucus Co-chairs U.S. Reps. Steve Womack (R-Ark.) and Jim Costa (D-Calif.) also sent a letter to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack that formally requested USDA for a 180-day extension on the comment period.
Back in July, Vilsack said in an announcement that, “This proposed framework is a systematic
kschutt@unitedegg.com; Veronica Rovelli, American Egg Board, meetings@aeb.org.
NOV 6-8 — AFIA EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS CONFERENCE, Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, Bonita Springs, Fla. Contact: American Feed Indus-
approach to addressing Salmonella contamination at poultry slaughter and processing, which includes enforceable standards that will result in safer food for consumers and fewer illnesses.”
Peterson added that the recent webinars show that there is limited guidance to the poultry industry from FSIS on how it is expected to implement proposals as they are currently written, and this has possibilities of negatively impacting the entire industry.
“Again, although we appreciate the 30 days that were provided by the Agency extending the comment period until Nov. 7, 2024, we reiterate the need to have an additional 90 days to provide a complete and comprehensive review of all aspects of the proposal,” she added in her letter.
“The voluminous amount of information required to be read, digested, analyzed, and responded to requires considerable time, resources, and scientific expertise,” Peterson said. “In light of the Agency continuing to encourage feedback on the proposed Salmonella Framework, additional time is needed to provide the Agency with the type of feedback required for a proposal of this magnitude.”
try Association, 2101 Wilson Blvd., Suite 810, Arlington, Va. 22201. Ph: 703-5240810; www.afia.org.
2025
JANUARY
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: 770-493-9401; info@ippexpo.org; www.ippexpo.org.
A look into Agribusiness Center’s educational opportunities in N. Ga.
ELIZABETH
BOBENHAUSEN
Poultry Times staff
ebobenhausen@ poultrytimes.com
GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Located in the heart of the “poultry capital of the world” is the Agribusiness Center of Hall County, Ga. The organization states that their mission is, “to provide Hall County students with hands-on, real-world opportunities, which allow them to develop skills and pursue future occupations in the numerous career pathways available in Georgia’s Agri-Business economy.”
The Hall County Board of Education purchased the 51 acres of land for local students to learn more about the agriculture and poultry industries. Superintendent of Hall County Schools, Will Schofield, talked about some of the students, saying “I believe a unique characteristic of our school district is we believe beyond a shadow of a doubt, that our 28,000 boys and girls, each one of them has some very unique gifts. They were created and born with some unique gifts and some unique passions. And what we try to do is to help those students discern what those unique opportunities are so they can pursue them for the rest of their life. The agribusiness center here, is one of the reasons that we have such a robust agribusiness in Hall County.”
On this large farm they have cattle, chickens, blueberry bushes, apple trees and honeybees.
Agribusiness specialist for Hall County Schools and Young Farmer Program advisor, Zach Free, said “there’s opportunities for them to get to see cattle. They can see the chickens. They see bees. They see berries and apple trees. If they get to see the chickens, they can see the chicken operation as a whole. They see the opportunity to feed the chickens, gather the eggs to clean out the nest boxes and to put new shavings in those nest boxes. There are opportunities to clean out
cattle pens to add new shavings to those cattle pens, to feed hay, to see how we roll out and feed round bales and to end up washing cattle to clipping cattle. When we talk about the honeybees, we show them individually how we feed sugar water and actually put the sugar water on the bees itself and mix that up. We show how to harvest honey and how we extract the honey and put it in the spinners.”
The students that come through the farm volunteer to
aide in the work being done.
“A lot of our ag classes are the ones that volunteer to come out here, spend their time,” Free added. “The ag classes come out here day to day, week by week.”
The grade level of the students ranges from kindergarten to 12th grade. The farm also works in conjunction with Lanier Technical College for dual enrolled students.
“Kindergarten through 12th grade, are exposed to agriculture up here at the farm as an
example,” Schofield said. “We have station field trips where our young farmers will set up 12 or 14 stations. We had over 3,000 third graders up here through the farm on field trips last spring alone. So again, we literally are exposing thousands of students to the wonders of agribusiness almost on a daily business here on the farm. We have a number of dual enrolled students. We’re working with Lanier Technical College, and some pathways that they can gain industry certification in the meat science area. We have opportunities and I can’t even tell you how many, 20 or 30 other areas for them to gain industry certification and credit towards a technical college degree.”
“I think all students ought to be exposed opportunities in agribusiness, they ought to be exposed to opportunities in healthcare and science; they ought to be exposed opportunities in the trades,” Schofield added. “I mean, just in my time, I’ve seen so many students get out of school, and you ask them what they’re going to do with the rest of their life, and they just really don’t know. They go off to college, maybe they even get a degree, and they come out and they’re still floundering in terms of what they want to do with the rest of their life. So, we’ve taken that process and tried to be very intentional, even with upper elementary kids, just exposing them to what’s out there and letting them see what they might be interested in.”
“I think it’s important that 100 percent of the students are exposed to agribusiness,” he noted. “That doesn’t mean 100 percent of students are going to be farmers or geneticists, or that they’re going to work in the poultry industry, but they ought to at least know what the opportunities are so they can make those decisions.”
• For a video presentation and more information about Poultry Times’s first-hand tour of the Agribusiness Center of Hall County, Ga., visit www.PoultryTimes.com.
VIEWPOINT
POULTRY TIMES
Farmers need Congress to do its job
COMMENTARY BY
ZIPPY DUVALL
American Farm Bureau Federation
Vincent (Zippy) Duvall, a poultry, cattle and hay producer from Greene County, Ga., is president of the American Farm Bureau Federation headquartered in Washington, D.C.
WASHINGTON — Every day, rain or shine, farmers rise to do their jobs. Whether we’re tired or stressed, we press on. If we disagree with a family member, we find a way forward. We don’t stall on planting or harvesting or caring for our animals.
We are committed to doing our jobs in all seasons because we know our families and yours are counting on us. So, it’s beyond me — and most farmers I talk to — how Congress can sit on a critical job like passing a farm bill. In the meantime, farmers are now facing an economic downturn. We cannot afford for Congress to put off doing their job because Americans are counting on farmers to do ours.
The latest numbers from USDA’s farm income forecast show a 23 percent drop in net farm income since 2022. How many people, how many families, could withstand losing a quarter of their income in two years?
If these same numbers were reflected in the overall economy, we would have heard talk of a recession already. What we’re seeing in the farm econ -
omy isn’t just a hiccup, it’s evidence of an agricultural recession.
I’ve heard from all our farmers and ranchers across the country that they are struggling. The latest USDA Census of Agriculture painted a concerning picture of the farm economy landscape. We lost more than 140,000 farms in a five-year time span as of 2022, and even in a season when net farm income was higher, more than half of farms were not making a profit.
Farmers and ranchers are facing inflation just like every other American family, but we also face the impact of severe weather, plummeting crop prices, and constant changes in regulatory requirements. Add to that sky-high labor costs, interest rates, and property taxes, which are all at record levels in terms of dollar value. It’s no wonder that more farmers are finding it challenging to remain economically sustainable. In the meantime, the current farm safety net is so out of date that it won’t even trigger for many family farms with this continued drop in income.
“Farmers and ranchers are facing inflation just like every other American family, but we also face the impact of severe weather, plummeting crop prices, and constant changes in regulatory requirements.”
The current farm programs were written before the pandemic, before major supply chain disruptions and global conflict, and before inflation and interest rates spiked.
Our farmers need help, and they need it now. Congress has been kicking the can down the road when it comes to the farm bill for two years. It’s been more than 100 days since the House Agriculture Committee passed a good bipartisan farm bill, but there hasn’t been any action in either chamber since.
We need Congress to put politics aside and do their job. They have done it in the past, and they can do it now. It’s time to get the work done. Farmers need a new, modernized farm bill, and we cannot afford for Congress to fail us now.
POULTRY TIMES
Simmons Foods donates $100K to childcare center in Emporia, Kan. BUSINESS
SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. — Simmons Foods announces it will provide a $100,000 donation to support the Little Lyons Childcare Center in Emporia, Kan. The donation will be distributed over five years, beginning in 2024, to help the center expand its services and address the critical childcare needs in the community.
Little Lyons Childcare Center celebrated the opening of its first three classrooms on Aug. 27, 2024, with an open house for the community, marking a significant milestone in its mis-
sion to provide essential childcare services. Renovations are set to begin this fall, with plans to open additional classrooms and transform the center into a 24/7 facility once all work is completed, the company said, adding that this expansion is a crucial step in supporting local families, particularly parents who struggle with finding reliable childcare, often leading to work absences.
“We are thrilled to have the support of Simmons, which will enable us to provide reliable and flexible childcare op-
tions for families in the Emporia community,” Jeanine McKenna, president and CEO of the Emporia Chamber of Commerce, said. “With the upcoming renovations, Little Lyons will transform into a 24/7 childcare center, meeting the needs of families who work beyond the traditional Monday through Friday 8 to 5 timeframe.”
“This new childcare center will be a game changer for our Team Members, especially those who need childcare beyond the standard 8 a.m.-5 p.m. window,”
Brian Potter, vice president of
operations for Simmons Pet Food, said. “Our people-first culture at Simmons means supporting our Team Members both at the workplace and at home.”
Little Lyons Childcare Center classes began Sept. 4.
Nick Braschler, director of Chaplain Services and Community Giving for Simmons Foods, added, “Simmons strives to create real impact and change in the communities in which we operate. We’re happy to have the opportunity to support this valuable resource for our team members in Emporia.”
POULTRY TIMES
Simmons Foods photo
Little Lyons Childcare Center of Emporia, Kan., celebrated the opening of its first three classrooms on Aug. 27 with an open house for the community. Simmons Foods announces that it’s providing a $100,000 donation to support the center.
USAPEEC announces two key promotions ln leadership team
TUCKER, Ga. — Greg Tyler, USA Poultry & Egg Export Council president & CEO, announces two promotions within the organization. Leah Mulcahy has been promoted to vice president of global marketing; and Garrett Borkhuis has been named vice president of trade policy & technical services.
Mulcahy joined USAPEEC in 2012 as deputy director of communications and later transitioned to the marketing team. During her 12 years with the organization, Mulcahy has established herself as an innovative leader in marketing, the council said, adding that, before joining USAPEEC, she worked with the National Potato Board in Denver, Colo., and the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service in Washington, D.C. Mulcahy holds a bachelor’s degree in international affairs from Kennesaw State University and an MBA in international business from American Intercontinental University.
Borkhuis came on board with USAPEEC in 2017 as marketing manager for Asia and was promoted to director of trade & technical services in 2020. During the last four years, Borkhuis has gained the trust and respect of the industry as a problem solver in technical issues, demonstrating unmatched expertise in trade matters, the council noted. Prior to his role at USAPEEC, he worked in
luxury vacation sales and holds a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness from the University of Georgia.
“These promotions reflect the hard work and dedication of both Leah and Garrett, and they are expected to continue driving USAPEEC’s success in their new roles,” Tyler said.
USPOULTRY and Foundation approve $570K in new research grants
TUCKER, Ga. — The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association and the USPOULTRY Foundation have approved $570,000 for five new research grants at four institutions through the comprehensive research program. The boards of directors for both organizations approved the research funding following recommendations from the Foundation Research Advisory Committee.
This committee assesses research proposals for their relevance to the industry and advises the boards on funding decisions. Its members are professionals from various segments of the poultry and egg industry, bringing diverse expertise to the evaluation process.
The association’s comprehen(Continued on next page)
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF OKLAHOMA
If You Were Paid to Provide Broiler Grow-Out Services at Any Time Between January 27, 2013 and December 31, 2019, A Class Action Settlement Totaling $100,000,000 May Affect Your Legal Rights.
A federal court authorized this notice. This is not a solicitation from a lawyer. Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (“Pilgrim’s”) has agreed to settle a class action lawsuit brought against them by broiler chicken growers who allege that Pilgrim’s and other companies unlawfully conspired to artificially reduce the amounts they paid to broiler chicken growers for Broiler Grow-Out Services. Pilgrim’s denies that it did anything wrong and has asserted defenses to the claims against it.
Plaintiffs are broiler chicken growers who raised broilers for Tyson, Perdue, Pilgrim’s, Koch, and/or Sanderson (together, “Defendants”) and/or other integrators (referred to as an Alleged “Co-Conspirator” below). Plaintiffs represent a class of broiler chicken growers who have similar claims against Defendants and the Alleged Co-Conspirators.
What does the Settlement provide? Pilgrim’s will pay $100,000,000 into a Settlement Fund, which will be used to pay Settlement Class members, attorneys’ fees and litigation expenses, incentive awards for each of the class representatives, and costs for notice and Settlement administration. Pilgrim’s has agreed to certain restrictions on its ability to enforce arbitration provisions against broiler chicken growers and on its ability to enforce provisions restricting collective or class actions brought by broiler chicken growers against Pilgrim’s. Pilgrim’s Settlement §9. Notwithstanding Pilgrim’s ability to include such provisions in its contracts, including with Settlement Class members, part of the relief guaranteed by the Settlement is that Pilgrim’s will forego its right to enforce those provisions, for five (5) years from the date of Final Judgment in this case. Pilgrim’s denies any wrongdoing.
Am I eligible to receive a payment from the Settlement? You may be eligible to receive a payment if you reside in the U.S. or its territories and were paid by any Defendant or any Alleged Co-Conspirator to provide Broiler Grow-Out Services at any time between January 27, 2013 and December 31, 2019. To learn who the Defendants and Alleged Co-Conspirators are, visit www.BroilerGrowersAntitrustSettlement.com.
How do I get a payment from the Settlement? If you received a Pre-Populated Claim Form and the information contained therein is correct, you do not need to do anything further to receive a payment. If you disagree with the information contained in the Pre-Populated Claim Form you received, you may submit the Claim Form with corrected information and documentation. If you received an Unpopulated Claim Form, you must complete and submit that Claim Form by April 17, 2025, to receive a payment from the Settlement Fund. You may access a Claim Form from the website and submit it online or download and mail it to the address on the Claim Form. Claim Forms are also available by calling 1-833-907-3700 or emailing Info@BroilerGrowersAntitrustSettlement.com.
What are my rights? If you are a Class member and do nothing, you will be bound by the Settlement and will give up any right to sue Pilgrim’s in separate lawsuits related to the legal claims in this lawsuit. If you want to keep your right to separately sue Pilgrim’s, you must exclude yourself from the Settlement by December 3, 2024. If you do not exclude yourself, you may object to the Settlement and/or ask for permission to appear and speak at the Fairness Hearing but only if you do so by December 3, 2024. Complete information is available at www.BroilerGrowersAntitrustSettlement.com.
The Court’s hearing. The Court will hold a hearing at 2:30 p.m. Central Standard Time on January 7, 2025 to decide whether to approve the Settlement, grant the requested (i) payment of attorneys’ fees of one-third (33%) of the Settlement Amount, (ii) reimbursement of litigation expenses and costs, not to exceed $2,000,000, and (iii) payment of incentive awards not to exceed $100,000 for each class representative. You or your own lawyer may appear and speak at the hearing at your own expense, but there is no requirement that you or your own lawyer do so. The hearing is scheduled to occur remotely, over a Zoom platform, or it may occur in person, at the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, located at 101 N. 5th St., Muskogee, OK 74401. Please check www.BroilerGrowersAntitrustSettlement.com for updates as to the location of the hearing.
This notice is only a summary.
For more information, including the full Notice and Settlement Agreement, visit www.BroilerGrowersAntitrustSettlement.com, email Info@BroilerGrowersAntitrustSettlement.com, or call 1-833-907-3700.
(Continued from previous page)
sive research program dates to the early 1960s when funds were first approved for poultry disease research. It gradually grew into an all-inclusive program incorporating all phases of poultry and egg production and processing. Since the inception of the research program, USPOULTRY has reinvested more than $36.7 million into the industry in the form of research grants, with 50-plus universities and federal and state facilities receiving the grants over the years.
“Funding research in critical areas for the industry is a key part of USPOULTRY’s and the Foundation’s commitment to supporting the poultry and egg industry,” Mikell Fries, Claxton Poultry Farms, and USPOULTRY chair, said. “The Foundation Research Advisory Committee members dedicate countless hours to reviewing and evaluating research proposals before making their funding recommendations. We deeply appreciate their efforts and contributions.”
The research grants for each institution include:
• Discerning Lot-to-Lot Inde-
pendence, Variability and Commercial Feasibility of a Lot Definition Using Statistical Approaches and Biomapping Data in the Secondary Processing; Texas Tech University.
• Development of Live Attenuated and Killed Vaccines for Emerging Avian Metapneumovirus Subgroup B; South Dakota State University.
• Utilizing Carbonized Feathers in Visible Light-Responsive Photocatalytic Reactors for Poultry Odor Control; Georgia Southern University.
• Effects of Phytase and Dacitic Tuff Breccia Supplementation Programs to Support Extended Lay in Laying Hens; North Carolina State University.
• Novel Multivalent Vaccines for Broad Protection Against Avian Metapneumovirus Infection; USDA Agricultural Research Service.
For more information, visit www.uspoultry.org.
Wayne-Sanderson partners with rising LPGA star Jenny Bae
OAKWOOD, Ga. — Wayne-
Sanderson Farms announces its sponsorship of professional golfer Jenny Bae, a two-time winner as a rookie pro on the Epson Tour, the official qualifying tour of the LPGA Tour. Jenny is the daughter of Peter and Hannah Bae, poultry farmers in North Georgia who have been growing chickens for the company for more than a decade.
“At WayneSanderson Farms, we recognize the integral role of our growers as partners in our mission to deliver wholesome high-quality chicken to the marketplace,” Clint Rivers, Wayne-Sanderson Farms president and CEO, said. “When we learned that a daughter of one of our long-time farming partners was in the midst of the difficult road of trying to secure her LPGA Tour Card, we thought it was a great opportunity to support her and her family in the pursuit of this dream. Jenny shares our commitment to being amazing as a rising star on the golf course, and we are proud to have the opportunity to invest in her future.”
A native of Suwanee, Ga., Bae was a star student athlete at the University of Georgia, where she won the 2023 Juli Inkster Award as the number one senior collegiate golfer in the country and earned a degree in Sports Management, the company noted, adding that she finished her career at UGA as the 5th ranked collegiate player, a three-time All-American, and the holder of numerous school records, including the lowest stroke average in school history. She was the runner up in the 2023 Augusta National Women’s Amateur. Jenny Bae’s professional ca-
reer took off with two tournament wins on the Epson Tour in 2023, coming up just short of securing her LPGA Tour card in less than half a season on the qualifying tour. She is currently one of the leading players on the Epson Tour this season and is focused on securing her LPGA Tour card for 2025.
“I am honored to have the support of Wayne-Sanderson Farms, and this partnership is especially meaningful to me as my parents have dedicated their lives to raising chickens to support me and my dream of being a professional golfer,” Bae said. “I look forward to proudly representing the remarkable team at Wayne-Sanderson Farms and sharing my story and my family’s story both on and off the golf course.”
Wayne-Sanderson Farms earns 23 safety awards at national conference
OAKWOOD, Ga. — WayneSanderson Farms has again been recognized by the Joint Poultry Safety & Health Council for its exceptional safety programs and performance, the company announced, adding that 23 of its facilities garnered awards at this year’s National Safety Conference for the Poultry Industry, with nine facilities earning the highest honor, an Award of Distinction.
The annual awards recognize safety programs implemented by members of the poultry industry’s National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation and U.S. Poultry and Egg Association to improve safety performance and recognize high achievers in reducing workplace injuries and illnesses. Wayne-Sanderson Farms has also previously been a
Bae
big winner at the annual awards ceremony, earning 13 accolades in 2023 and 14 in 2022.
“At Wayne-Sanderson Farms, our commitment to health and safety is a mindset that we have worked hard to instill in our employees as a team effort that everyone has responsibility for,” Reggie McLee, Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ vice president of health and safety, said. “These awards are a reflection of our collaborative efforts to prioritize our safety program and demonstrate that our approach is making a significant impact on the well-being of our team members.”
In another awards highlight, McLee was honored with a special recognition award for his 33-plus years of leadership and dedicated service to the safety and health profession. He is responsible for retooling the Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ safety program from the ground up, after joining the company 16 years ago. Under his leadership, the program is centered around a theme of “Zero-Accident Culture” that is driven by personal accountability for safe workplace practices.
“Thanks to Reggie’s leadership, we have cultivated a sustainable culture of safety excellence that emphasizes our people as our top priority,” Clint Rivers, Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ president and CEO, said. “We take great pride in our achievements and celebrate the employees who contributed to this prestigious recognition.”
The Wayne-Sanderson Farms facilities recognized by the Joint Poultry Industry Safety & Health Council for Exceptional Safety Performance include:
and Ducks Unlimited working together to restore watersheds
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Ducks Unlimited announces a new landscape collaboration with long-standing partner Cargill to further invest in the sustainable management of watersheds across North America.
Cargill renewed a three-year commitment to advancing conservation efforts with a $1.5 million, multi-year grant to support DU projects focused on shared priority watersheds: Ogallala Aquifer (Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado), Lake Ontario Watershed (New York), Upper Mississippi River (Iowa) and Canadian Prairies (Alberta, Saskatchewan).
“At Cargill, we know that healthy watersheds are crucial for farming and the communities around them,” Pilar Cruz, Cargill chief sustainability officer, said. “By partnering with Ducks Unlimited, we are investing in the resiliency of our natural resources. We are committed to preserving water quality and supporting natural resources so these lands can be enjoyed and utilized by future generations.”
Cargill has a long history of supporting the critical conservation work DU and its partners are doing to improve water quality and availability, supporting sustainable agricultural practices, protecting natural ecosystems and enhancing vital habitats for waterfowl, the company said, adding that, since 2010, it has invested more than $3.9 million with DU, helping conserve or restore more than 116,000 acres across North America.
“Cargill has been an invaluable partner over the years in our mission to protect and restore critical, natural landscapes,” Dr. Karen Waldrop, DU chief conservation officer, said. “Its continued investment in sustainable watersheds is crucial not only
for clean water and productive agriculture but also for ensuring waterfowl habitats thrive across North America. By enhancing these natural areas, we are helping secure a better future for nature and people.”
Priority areas supported through this grant include:
• Ogallala Aquifer
The Ogallala Aquifer is one of the largest underground sources of clean and replenishable water in the world. While Nebraska is home to the aquifer’s most densely saturated soils, the Ogallala sprawls across eight states, providing drinking water and irrigation resources through some of the most agriculturally rich landscapes of the Great Plains and southern United States. Restoration projects will focus on groundwater recharge, nutrient stewardship, soil health, biodiversity and carbon sequestration.
• Lake Ontario Watershed Spanning nearly 2,500 miles of land area within New York State, the efforts in this watershed focus on restoring and protecting wetlands while also improving
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water quality for residents and wildlife habitat for birds, fish and mammals.
• Upper Mississippi River
While the Mississippi River provides drinking water to more than 20 million people in over 50 cities, projects of all sizes can have a positive impact for many miles down the river and along the corridor. These restoration projects will benefit not only water quality but also wildlife habitat and community and climate resilience.
• Canadian Prairies
By supporting healthy ecosystems and providing agricultural assistance, the Canadian Prairies represent a vital area where conservation and farming interests align, benefiting both waterfowl populations and agricultural productivity. Projects will continue to support farmers and ranchers in adopting practices that enhance soil health, reduce harmful runoff and conserve water.
This long-standing partner-
ship supports the company’s goal of enabling the restoration of 600 billion liters of water and the reduction of 5,000 metric tons of water pollutants in water-stressed regions by 2030, company officials noted, adding that DU’s and Cargill’s combined efforts will continue to benefit waterfowl, water quality, agriculture and communities across North America. For more information on Cargill’s global water ambition, visit www.cargill.com/ sustainability/priorities/water.
Perdue donated 400K pounds of chicken to support Hunger Action Month
SALISBURY, Md. — Perdue Farms announces that it is donating 400,000 pounds of “no antibiotics ever” chicken to 10 food banks along the East Coast from Delaware to Georgia as part of its Delivering Hope To Our Neighbors® outreach.
These donations, the equivalent of 333,000 meals, are part of Perdue Farms’ commitment to alleviate food insecurity in its communities and coincides with Feeding America’s Hunger Action Month, a nationwide effort in September designed to raise awareness about hunger in America and inspire action, the company notes.
“As someone who faced the pressures of hunger firsthand as a child, I can say that food insecurity impacts more people than we realize, unfortunately including 1 in 5 children. As a food and agriculture company, we’re committed to fighting hunger in the communities we call home and beyond,” Todd Tillemans, Perdue Farms chief commercial officer, said. “During Hunger Action Month, we want these donations to increase awareness, help feed our neighbors, and spur action from organizations.”
Throughout Hunger Action Month, Perdue Farms will be donating 40,000 pounds of protein, enough to fill a semi-trailer truck, to the following food banks: Blue Ridge Area Food Bank — Virginia; FeedMore — Virginia; Food Bank of the Albemarle – North Carolina; Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina, Sand Hills Branch — North Carolina; Food Bank of Delaware; Food Bank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore; Harvest Hope Food Bank — South Carolina; Maryland Food Bank; Middle Georgia Community Food Bank; and Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina — North Carolina and South Carolina.
“This generous donation from our long-standing partner, Per-
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due Farms, will positively impact the lives of our Delaware neighbors struggling with food insecurity every day, but especially this Hunger Action Month,” Cathy Kanefsky, president and CEO of Food Bank of Delaware, said “At the food bank, we are committed and proud to provide nutritious food that can improve the health and wellbeing of our community members facing food insecurity, and donations such as this provides access to quality protein that is otherwise more difficult to come by.”
Perdue Farms said that this donation marks another significant contribution in its ongoing commitment to alleviate food insecurity in America, which affects 1 in 7 people, including 1 in 5 children. Since 2000, Perdue Farms has donated more than 100 million pounds of protein to the Feeding America network of food banks.
Perdue was one of the first meat companies to implement a formal program of ongoing donations of perishable protein products, creating a model for other companies to follow, the company said, adding that the Hunger Action Month commitment doesn’t stop there. Perdue is also investing $140,000 in hunger relief programs with a focus on childhood hunger through initiatives such as school pantries, backpack programs and school mobile pantries.
Chicken Salad Chick launches annual childhood cancer research campaign
ATLANTA — For September, Chicken Salad Chick held its annual “Cookies for a CURE” promotion in partnership with CURE Childhood Cancer, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to funding life-chang-
ing pediatric cancer research for children and families across the country.
This fall, guests can enjoy Chicken Salad Chick’s limitedtime Lemon Burst Buttercream Cookies for a good cause. All proceeds from sales of the Lemon Burst Buttercream Cookies will go directly to CURE Childhood Cancer throughout the month of September, also known as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
During the last two Septembers, Chicken Salad Chick raised more than $80,000 for childhood cancer research from proceeds of Cookies for a CURE.
“Cookies for a CURE has become a tremendous platform for us as an organization to make a tangible impact in the lives of so many children and families suffering the reality of this deadly, debilitating illness,” Scott Deviney, Chicken Salad Chick CEO, said. “The supportive and overwhelming response from our guests has made this one of our most successful initiatives yet. Our partnership with CURE is just one of the ways we aim to serve those in our community who truly need it the most, and we could not be more proud to ramp up our Cookies launch for a third year in a row.”
The Lemon Burst Buttercream Cookies are topped with a natural lemon zest buttercream frosting in honor of the gold ribbon which serves as the international symbol for Childhood Cancer. In the promotion’s third year, Chicken Salad Chick expects to donate more than $40,000 directly to CURE based on the supplies allotted for the campaign.
“Chicken Salad Chick’s support is such a driving force in our fight against childhood cancer,” Kristin Connor, CURE Childhood Cancer CEO, said. “Funds raised through cookie sales are invested in research aimed at developing effective, less toxic treatments for cancers that affect children. We are so grateful for the incredible partnership, the opportunity to raise substantial funds, and the crucial awareness Chicken Salad Chick is bringing to the crisis of cancer in children.”
In 2023, Chicken Salad Chick announced it raised more than $525,000 on behalf of its annual Giving Card program to support local food charities and cancer research. A sizeable portion of
these funds were donated directly to CURE to support the organization’s efforts to fund new research in the fight against childhood cancer.
The CSC Foundation was created in 2014 by Chicken Salad Chick’s founders, Kevin and Stacy Brown, and their business partners, Earlon and Betty McWhorter, with a mission to fight cancer and feed the hungry. Through the growth of the foundation, CSC has had tremendous opportunities to impact the lives of those in need through initiatives like the annual Giving Card program and now Cookies for a CURE. The CSC Foundation has helped secure the future of CSC’s philanthropy by setting a positive example across the Chicken Salad organization, the company added.
Rabobank: Global poultry markets are bullish, oversupply a concern
UTRECHT, Netherlands — According to the latest animal protein report by RaboResearch, the outlook for global poultry markets is bullish, driven by ac-
celerating consumption growth in many markets. After several years of slow growth, global poultry consumption is forecast to reach 2.5 percent to 3 percent in 2024, marking a return to historic levels.
Global poultry markets are performing well due to lower production costs and solid demand recovery in most markets, Rabobank noted.
“Poultry’s strong price position against other proteins in most markets, along with strong retail demand, recovering foodservice demand, and rising sustainability strategies that support chicken demand are supporting rapid growth,” Nan-Dirk Mulder, RaboResearch senior analyst — animal protein, said.
Most poultry industries worldwide have remained relatively profitable, with rising prices in many cases, Rabobank said, adding that, the main exceptions are China and Japan, which continue to suffer from local oversupply. Fast production growth, in combination with more challenging local economic conditions and
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lower consumer confidence, has led to oversupply, with relatively low prices and rising stocks. This has also weighed on imports, with large year-on-year drops in raw chicken imports to China and Japan in the first half of 2024.
• Global trade
Overall trade is expected to stay robust in the second half of 2024, Rabobank added. Most international markets are strong and balanced, increasing the demand
for chicken imports. Global trade is forecast to grow in line with rising global poultry demand but in the context of ongoing volatility. The weakness in Chinese demand will pressure chicken feet prices, but breast meat and processed chicken prices are expected to remain firm, in line with strong market conditions in the main importing markets in Europe and Asia.
Consumption in advanced economies like Europe, the U.S., and Japan will keep growing in
line with long-term trends and better affordability, analysts noted. Demand for more valueadded products like processed chicken and concept poultry will recover further, returning to trend levels after a few slow years.
However, risks remain, Rabobank added. The tensions in the Middle East, and the consequent rerouting of trade via South Africa, continue to weigh on trade between Asia and Europe due to the longer transport times and higher costs.
“For the outlook, the main wild cards will be animal diseases and geopolitical tensions,” Mulder said. “Both can suddenly impact global trade flows.”
• Avian influenza remains a concern
The outbreak of Newcastle disease on a Rio Grande do Sul farm in Brazil resulted in an export embargo to several destinations, analysts reported. Key importers like Japan, China, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa placed restrictions at the state basis, while others moved to a regional approach. Although no new cases have been found, it has been a wake-up call for Brazil and major importing
countries.
Avian influenza remains a challenge for the industry, but on average, the pressure is slightly lower compared to last year, Rabobank said. This year, the European Union had the lowest number of outbreaks since July 2019, and South Africa has remained free from outbreaks in commercial farming, with chicken production fully recovering (though egg production is still heavily impacted). The U.S. has been one of the exceptions, with ongoing outbreaks during summer months that have significantly impacted the egg industry. As winter advances in the Northern Hemisphere, risks will rise again.
“In a context with ongoing high risks, such as animal disease, feed price volatility, and geopolitical tension, supply growth discipline is important to keep operating under balanced market conditions,” Mulder added. “Otherwise, the current bullish market conditions could push producers to expand too optimistically, leading to oversupply like that seen in China and Japan.”
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The Red Chickz expanding with new locations in New Jersey and North Carolina
LOS ANGELES — The Red Chickz, a fast-casual chain known for its take on Nashville Hot Chicken, announces the signing of a 3-unit development deal that will introduce its brand to New Jersey, with new locations planned for Mantua Township, Washington Township, and Gloucester Township.
Fueled by the viral success of its original locations in Los Angeles and the demand from its fans, The Red Chickz continues its nationwide expansion with its firstever foray into the Garden State, the company said. The new locations will bring the brand’s “Hotter Than You” mantra to New Jersey, offering locals a taste of its crunchy, flavorful hot chicken.
“We’re thrilled to be introducing The Red Chickz to New Jersey,” Shawn Lalehzarian, co-founder and CEO of The Red Chickz, said. “Expanding into
the Garden State is an incredibly exciting milestone for us, as we continue to share our unique West Coast spin on Nashville Hot Chicken with new fans across the country. New Jersey’s diverse and dynamic communities make it the perfect place for us to introduce the East Coast to The Red Chickz experience, where crunch meets spice in an unbeatable combination, and we look forward to becoming a staple across New Jersey.”
With major franchise deals already announced in North Carolina, and now New Jersey, The Red Chickz has captured the recognition of multi-unit and multibrand operators, the company said, adding that its rapid growth is a testament to the brand’s unique appeal and the strength of its franchise model.
“I’m really excited to be working with The Red Chickz. With this brand, there’s an extremely long runway for development, not only across North America, but also abroad,” Spencer Sabatasso, vice president of development at The Red Chickz. “This franchise is designed with best-in-class unit economics, streamlined operations, and an efficient labor model — perfect for entrepreneurs and multi-unit operators looking to maximize profitability.”
“This isn’t just another hot chicken concept — it’s the next big QSR (quick service restaurant) opportunity,” Sabatasso added. “While hot chicken has been around for decades, The Red Chickz offers an innovative twist that sets us apart and elevates the classic Nashville Hot experience. We serve the crunchiest, most flavorful tenders with or without the Nashville Hot kick.
Backed by strong unit economics, streamlined operations, and an efficient labor model, The Red Chickz offers a promising opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to grow in the fast-casual space. We’re redefining what it means to serve Nashville Hot Chicken, embracing both tradition and innovation. This combination of authenticity and creativity is what sets us apart and fuels our continued success. We’re not just serving Nashville Hot cuisine; we’re creating happy experiences that resonate with our obsessed customers.”
For more information, visit www.theredchickz.com.
UGA to conduct Cold Weather Poultry Management workshop
ATHENS, Ga. — On Nov. 12-14, the University of Georgia Department of Poultry Science will be conducting a Cold Weather Poultry Management Workshop at Flinchum’s Phoenix, just outside Athens.
This intensive 2 ½ day training workshop has been specifically designed for those who want to learn more about poultry house environmental management during cold weather. The workshop consists of lectures, as well as hands on group exercises designed to help attendees gain a firm understanding of the principles behind cold weather poultry house management, organizers noted.
The session will have more than 25 presentations, demonstrations, and exercises that cover all aspects of poultry house environmental control during cold weather.
Workshop topics will include:
• House temperature and broiler performance
• Factors affecting broiler house heating system requirements
• Insulating poultry houses
• Measuring poultry house tightness
• Increasing poultry house tightness
• Air quality and bird health
• Determine minimum ventilation rates
• Negative pressure ventilation principles
• Litter management between flocks
• Negative pressure ventilation air inlets and exhaust fans
• Circulation fan system principles
• Circulation fan system design/operation
• Poultry411 litter drying app
• Heating system maintenance
• Basic air inlet management
• Chick management … The first 48 hours
• Poultry house heating systems
• Attic inlets
• Poultry house environmental assess-
ment tools
• Poultry house operation during cold weather
• Poultry411 app
Workshop presenters are: Michael Czarick, UGA Poultry Science; Casey Jones, L.B. White; Dr. Brian Fairchild, UGA Poultry Science; Dr. Joel Cline, Wayne-Sanderson; Dr. Connie Mou, IFF; and Brantley Porter. Porter Insulation.
The location, Flinchums’s Phoenix, is 650 Phoenix Road, Athens, Ga. 30605. The workshop will begin at 8 a.m. on Nov. 12 and conclude at noon on Nov. 14.
More information about the workshop, visit https://www.poultryventilation.com/events/.
Common mistakes when installing controller temperature sensors
BY MICHAEL CZARICK & DR. BRIAN FAIRCHILD University of Georgia
ATHENS, Ga. — A poultry house controller’s temperature sensors are, in a sense, its “eyes” enabling it to “observe” what is happening throughout a poultry house so it can accurately determine what equipment it needs to operate to maintain the proper environmental conditions throughout a house. As a result, a controller’s ability to maintain proper growing conditions for the birds is only as good as the information it receives from its eyes/temperature sensors.
In today’s large poultry houses, it is not uncommon for there to be significant variations in temperature from the center of the house to the sidewalls, as well as between the center of the
house and the end walls/brooding curtain as well as from floor to ceiling.
If a controller is unaware of hot or cold spots within a house, due to improper temperature sensor location, it cannot take the necessary corrective actions to address these hot and cold spots and bird performance, health and welfare can suffer.
The following is a list of mistakes commonly made when positioning controller temperature sensors within a house that can harm a grower’s ability to provide the proper growing conditions for birds throughout their houses:
1. Installing temperature sensors along the centerline of a house.
Temperature sensors positioned along the center of the house tend to paint the prettiest picture of house conditions because this is where temperatures
tend to be most stable. The problem is that conditions nearer the sidewalls can be very different during both summer and winter. During hot weather, the centerline of the house tends to be the coolest area of a house. But on a hot summer day, a controller needs to be aware of what is happening in the warmest locations to make sure those birds near the sidewall are not becoming heat stressed due to naturally lower air velocities and heat entering through sidewall curtains and/or poorly insulated concrete stem walls.
Conversely, during cold weather, it tends to be cooler near the sidewall than along the centerline of a house due to excessive heat loss from poorly insulated stem walls, sidewall curtains, leakage and poorly performing sidewall inlets. Lower air temperatures near the sidewall can not only result in chilled
birds but can result in not only chilled birds but also increased litter moisture due to the fact that cool air does a poor job of removing moisture from the litter.
Higher litter moisture levels will in turn result in higher house ammonia concentrations and subsequent potential bird health and performance issues. The controller needs to see these cooler areas of a house so it can take corrective actions (i.e., turn on heaters) before bird performance and health suffer.
The thing to keep in mind is that in general if the birds near the sidewall are comfortable then most likely the birds toward the center of the house are comfortable as well. The converse is far less likely to hold true. As a result, to help ensure the maximum number of birds
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UGA
Figure 1: Sensors should be placed within 5-feet to 10-feet of a sidewall.
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have optimal growing conditions, it is generally recommended to install temperature sensors within 5 to 19 feet from the sidewalls (alternating sides of a house), ideally attached to either a feeder or drinker line.
2. Installing temperature sensors too far from house end walls and/or brood curtain(s) of a house.
Often temperature sensors are positioned 40’ or more from the end walls and/or brooding curtain(s) of a house. The problem with this is that these areas will tend to run cooler than they should during cold weather simply because the controller is unaware these traditionally leaky areas of a house are cool. As is the case with low air temperatures near the sidewalls during cold weather, low air temperatures near the end walls/brooding curtain tend to result in increased problems with caked litter, ammonia and chilled birds.
In addition, feeder control pans are typically located near the end walls, and if it is too
UGA
Figure 2: Sensors should be placed outside radiant heating zones of radiant heaters.
cool (or hot for that matter) there may not be enough birds in the area to eat enough feed from the control pan to trigger it to operate. To ensure that the areas near the end wall of a house remain warm and dry during cold weather, and there are sufficient number of birds to trigger feeder control pans, temperature sensors should be placed within 15’ of the end walls/brood curtain(s).
3. Placing temperature sensors too close to a radiant heater.
The radiant heat produced by radiant heaters (brooders, tubes, etc.) will heat the floor and objects near them well above house air temperature. The closer an object is, a temperature sensor, for example, to a radiant heater, the more radiant heat it will receive and the more it will be heated above house air temperature.
The problem is that those areas of the house that are receiving little to no radiant heat from a radiant heater may never reach optimal air temperatures because the controller may be determining house temperature based on sensors that are being heated to well above actual air temperature by the radiant heat produced by a house’s radiant heaters. To help ensure that areas further from the radiant heaters don’t become too cool, temperature sensors should generally be positioned at the edge of a radiant heater’s radiant heating zone (areas that are primarily being heated by the radiant heat produced by a radiant heater).
For most radiant brooders, temperature sensors should be positioned no closer than 8 feet, and radiant tube heaters approximately 15 feet.
4. Installing temperature sensors too high above bird level.
Sensors placed high above the floor are most problematic during brooding, especially in those houses without circulation fans. Sensors positioned two to three feet above the floor may be missing cool drafty conditions that may exist at chick level due to the tendency of cool, heavy leakage air to stay within a foot or so of the floor.
To avoid this issue, sensors should be attached to drinker
lines so that they start off a flock within six inches or so above the floor. This also helps ensure that the temperature sensors are kept out of the reach of birds as the drinkers are raised.
5. Not installing temperature sensors with an extra length of wire.
Though a producer may have a pretty good idea of where temperature sensors should be located, having extra sensor wire stored at the ceiling can make it much easier to tweak sensor location. A producer may find it beneficial to move a sensor farther from the sidewall or closer to the side wall.
In addition, a sensor may be a little too close to a sidewall inlet or radiant heater, resulting in the need to move the sensor a few feet.
Michael Czarick is an Extension engineer and Dr. Brian Fairchild is an Extension poultry scientist, both with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Cooperative Extension. More information can be obtained at www. poultryventilation.com.
UGA
Figure 3: Sensors should be attached to a feeder or drinker line.
New studies show eating eggs may support brain health
ELIZABETH BOBENHAUSEN
Poultry Times staff
ebobenhausen@ poultrytimes.com
In a mini-series of articles, Poultry Times is looking at the health benefits of the various poultry industry product segments. This article looks at the health benefits of eggs and a recent study showing a relationship with reduced Alzheimer’s risk.
GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Despite what many people think, eggs are very healthy for a person to eat. Poultry Times recently spoke with Dr. Mickey Rubin and Marc Dresner of the American Egg Board. Rubin is the vice president of research and the executive director of the Egg Nutrition Center. Marc Dresner is AEB’s director of integrated communications.
Rubin explained some of the benefits of eating eggs. He said, “eggs are a good source of protein. There’s really no other better source of protein in terms of protein quality that you could find. People think about cholesterol, right? As sort of the old way of thinking about, of eggs and around the idea of eggs and heart health. But I think what we’ve learned over the years through extensive nutrition research is that eggs are so much more and, in some ways, not what they thought they were.”
Through the years many people have heard that cholesterol can cause heart disease. However, Rubin refuted these claims citing new research.
“An example of decades of nutrition research where back in the 80s and 90s, the conventional wisdom was that when you eat cholesterol, from an egg that increases the cholesterol in your blood and increases the risk for heart disease,” he said. “And we found over the years that’s just simply not the case. In fact, the research has evolved so greatly on that topic that you see organizations like the American Heart Association recommending eggs
as part of heart healthy diets for healthy people. They recommend an egg a day for healthy adults and even two eggs a day for older adults because sometimes older adults need a little bit more protein.”
The organization cited a study that was published in The Journal of Nutrition. The study showed that consuming eggs can lower the risk for Alzheimer’s dementia.
“Researchers reported that dietary choline was the main driver of the relationship between eggs and lower risk of Alzheimer’s dementia — accounting for 39 percent of the association,” AEB said in a release. “One large egg contains 150 milligrams of choline, providing 25 percent of the recommended daily value.”
Rubin added that, “choline is a
nutrient that is critical for brain health at the early stages of life. It’s a nutrient that the Dietary Guidelines recommend is critical for brain health for infants and toddlers. They recommend that they get substantial choline at those early stages when they’re just starting out with first foods.”
“Choline is such an important nutrient for the developing brain,” he added. “We’re also seeing the benefits of choline across the lifespan as well. In fact, we’re seeing some really exciting research on eggs when it comes to cognitive decline with age. We’ve seen some studies in recent years that show that choline and eggs are associated with reduced cognitive decline.”
Regarding the Alzheimer’s study, it’s noted that it builds on
former research that found even limited egg consumption of one egg a week, linked to a reduction in memory decline as opposed to those who noted that they did not consume eggs.
“Eggs are one of the few commonly consumed foods that are naturally rich in choline, a nutrient that we are researching to further understand its role in supporting both cognitive development in infants and young children and maintenance during the aging process,” Dr. Taylor Wallace, the study’s principal investigator, said. “This study adds to the growing body of evidence that dietary choices can have a significant impact on reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s dementia and supporting lifelong cognitive health.”
Boar’s Head closing plant linked to deadly listeria outbreak
The Associated Press
JARRATT, Va. — Boar’s Head said on Sept. 13 it’s closing the Virginia plant tied to a deadly listeria outbreak.
The Sarasota, Fla.-based company said it will also permanently discontinue production of liverwurst, the product that was linked to the deaths of at least nine people and hospitalizations of about 50 others in 18 states.
Boar’s Head expressed regret and deep apologies for the outbreak in a statement on its website.
Boar’s Head said an internal investigation at its Jarratt, Va., plant found that the contamination was the result of a specific production process. The process only existed at the Jarratt plant and was only used for liverwurst, the company said.
The Jarratt plant hasn’t been operational since late July, when Boar’s Head recalled more than 7 million pounds of deli meats and other products after tests confirmed listeria bacteria in its products was making people sick.
An aerial view of the Boar’s Head processing plant that was tied to a deadly food poisoning outbreak as seen in an Associated Press photo from Aug. 29, 2024, in Jarratt, Va.
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Listeria infections are caused by a hardy type of bacteria that can survive and even thrive during refrigeration. An estimated 1,600 people get listeria food poisoning each year and about 260 die, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Infections can be
hard to pinpoint because symptoms may occur up to 10 weeks after eating contaminated food.
The Jarratt plant had a troubled history. Government inspectors found 69 instances of “noncompliance” at the facility over the last year, including instances of mold,
insects, liquid dripping from ceilings and meat and fat residue on walls, floors and equipment.
Boar’s Head said “hundreds” of employees will be impacted by the closure.
“We do not take lightly our responsibility as one of the area’s largest employers,” the company said. “But, under these circumstances, we feel that a plant closure is the most prudent course.”
The company said it is appointing a new chief food safety officer who will report to its president. It is also establishing a safety council comprised of independent experts, including Mindy Brashears, a former food safety chief at the USDA, and Frank Yiannas, a former deputy commissioner for food policy at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
“This is a dark moment in our company’s history, but we intend to use this as an opportunity to enhance food safety programs not just for our company, but for the entire industry,” the company said.
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New school year, new school lunches planned
ELIZABETH BOBENHAUSEN
Poultry Times staff
ebobenhausen@ poultrytimes.com
GAINESVILLE, Ga. — The USDA upgraded its nutrition standards for school lunches earlier this year. Schools around the country feed more than 30 million students from kindergarten through high school. The USDA’s requirements include having more protein in the meals and less sugar. Foods like yogurt, tofu, eggs, nuts and seeds have been added to the menu.
School systems are also focusing on buying more local foods. Eight states including California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico and Vermont have already made changes to school meal choices. Other states provide free lunches for students through the Community Eligibility Provision. The USDA has given $13.7 billion to schools around the country since 2021.
“Healthy school meals are an
essential part of the educational environment and fuel children to learn, grow and thrive,” Tom Vilsack, U.S. agriculture secretary, said. “USDA is fully committed to setting kids up for success and this rally gives us the opportunity to come together and encourage one another to raise the bar for school meals in this new school year and beyond. We’re grateful to our partners at the Department of Education, along with all the schools, districts, states, and industry who care so much about the connection between healthy meals and our children’s futures, and we’re excited to continue to work together to make this backto-school season a success.”
“As someone who’s been a teacher and a school principal, I’ve seen how hard our school nutrition professionals work every day and I’ve seen the incredible difference it makes when a student comes to class after a healthy meal, energized, with a smile on their face, ready to learn,” Miguel Cardona, U.S. secretary of education, added. “School is not just a
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place where students go to learn reading and math. At its best, a school is a hub of the community, and one of the first places that a student and their family can get their most basic needs met.”
The Biden-Harris Administration worked in conjunction with the USDA to provide these new regulations. Some of them include:
• Added sugars
For the first time, added sugars will be limited in school meals nationwide, with small changes happening by Fall 2025 and full implementation by fall 2027. USDA heard concerns from parents and teachers about excessive amounts of added sugars in some foods, which factored into this new limit. Research shows that these added sugars are most commonly found in typical school breakfast items. Childcare operators will also begin limiting added sugars in cereals and yogurts – rather than total sugars – by fall 2025.
• Milk
Schools can continue to offer flavored and unflavored milk,
which provide essential nutrients that children need, such as calcium, vitamin D and potassium. There will be a new limit on added sugars in flavored milk served at breakfast and lunch by fall 2025. Thirty-seven school milk processors — representing more than 90 percent of the school milk volume nationwide — have already committed to providing nutritious school milk options that meet this limit on added sugars.
• Sodium
Schools will need to slightly reduce sodium content in their meals by fall 2027. In response to public comments, USDA is only requiring one sodium reduction, and not the three incremental reductions that were proposed last year. This change still moves children in the right direction and gives schools and industry the lead time they need to prepare. The sodium limits in this final rule will be familiar to schools, as they were supported by leading school nutrition and industry stakeholders during previous rulemaking activities in 2017 and 2018.
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• Whole grains
Current nutrition standards for whole grains will not change. Schools will continue to offer students a variety of nutrient-rich whole grains and have the option to offer some enriched grains to meet students’ cultural and taste preferences.
• Supporting other food preferences
While not a new requirement, starting this fall it will be easier for schools to serve protein-rich breakfast foods such as yogurt, tofu, eggs, nuts, and seeds, which can help reduce sugary food options, while also supporting vegetarian diets and other food preferences.
• Supporting local food purchases
Also, for fall 2024, schools have the option to require unprocessed agricultural products to be locally grown, raised or caught when making purchases for school meal programs, making it easier for schools to buy local foods.
Additionally, starting in fall 2025, schools will have limits on the percentage of non-domestic grown and produced foods they can purchase, which will enhance the role of American farmers, producers, fishers, and ranchers in providing nutritious foods to schools.
Serving the Meat, Poultry and Seafood Industries
Five healthy ways to cook chicken
ELIZABETH BOBENHAUSEN Poultry Times staff ebobenhausen@ poultrytimes.com
In a mini-series of articles, Poultry Times is looking at the health benefits of the various poultry industry product segments. This article goes beyond the products and looks at five healthy cooking methods for chicken.
GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Chicken is a healthy protein to eat to maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage weight. It also reduces the risk of diabetes and heart disease. The way chicken is cooked
PROBLEMS?
can also be beneficial to a person’s health.
However, chicken that’s cooked by grilling, pan-frying, smoking or barbecuing can be attributed to cancerous chemicals such as heterocyclic aromatic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
When chicken is cooked at lower temperatures, is not exposed to an open flame, and cooked in smaller intervals; it can be very beneficial for a person’s health.
According to Health.com, there are five ways that chicken can be cooked to increase health advantages.
• One way to cook chicken is to poach it.
“Poaching is a healthy cooking method that involves gently simmering food in liquid, like broth or water,” Health.com noted. “It uses indirect heat, which pro-
duces fewer HCAs than direct heat methods like grilling and frying.”
When poaching chicken, it is important to keep the temperature low at 158 degrees F to 176 degrees F.
• Another way to cook chicken is to steam it.
“Steaming is another healthy cooking method that uses boiling water that vaporizes into steam, which cooks the food. Research shows that steaming at low temperatures, around 212 degrees, generates lower levels of HCAs and PAHs,” Health.com said.
Steam can help the chicken preserve flavor, moisture, and tenderness. Steamed chicken also has very few calories because it doesn’t need any additional fat.
• Boiling is another beneficial way to cook chicken.
“Boiling chicken is a simple cooking method that’s incredibly healthy,” Health.com noted. “Like steaming, boiling uses low temperatures that typically don’t exceed 212 degrees. Research shows that HCAs are usually not detected or found in
minimal amounts in boiling and other cooking methods that op erate at low temperatures.”
Boiled chicken can be frozen for up to four months.
• Using something like an Instant Pot, pressure cooking is good for cooking chicken as well.
“Pressure cooking is a healthy cooking method that uses steam and heat inside an airtight pot to cook food quickly,” Health.com added. “One recent study found that steaming, including pres sure cooking, generates fewer carcinogens.”
• Lastly, roasting a chicken can be a healthy cooking method.
“Roasting involves cooking food with dry heat, typically in an oven,” Health.com said. “Although the temperature is higher than many other healthy cooking methods, some evidence suggests that roasting chicken at temperatures up to 392 degrees produces relatively low levels of carcinogens. This is due to the method’s limited direct contact with a hot surface.”
