‘Avian influenza is one of the biggest challenges we’ve ever faced’: Poultry producers celebrate innovation amid industry challenges

National Poultry Show kicks off in London as the CFIA lists nine active avian flu cases at SW Ontario commercial farms. Sean Irvine reports.

Chicken farmers from across Canada are in London this week for the National Poultry Show.

It takes place amidst ongoing avian flu outbreaks, economic challenges, and the rise of new technology.

Murray Opsteen, chair of Chicken Farmers of Ontario, was looking to address all three on Wednesday.

“Avian influenza is one of the biggest challenges we’ve ever faced. And that’s why it’s so important for farmers to do biosecurity. And even at this show, as you said, there are signs outside making sure that the farmers are adhering to all the biosecurity, because we don’t want to spread that disease,” he explained.

While the flu risk is not discredited, the vast majority of 200 million chickens produced in Ontario become a healthy part of the province’s food supply.

The prices of both chicken and eggs have been rising, but Opsteen maintains the industry is protecting Canadian consumers.

“You see, in the States, egg prices really exploded last year. Well, that really didn’t happen in Canada. And I think it was the benefits of supply management that really helped Canadian consumers,” he said.

But ensuring a stable supply and delivery is only part of the process. Chicken farmers are embracing technology, including new AI and robotic methods to grade, stack and monitor eggs.

“Producers are always looking for that next level of technology that will give them an edge,” explained J.D. Williamson of J. Dean Williamson Ltd., an automation reseller based in London.

“Of course, in a business like eggs, keeping your cracks down is of the utmost importance. So, when we bring out new technology, it’s all focused on helping the producer deliver the best quality possible,” he said.

But high-tech machines often cost upwards of $200,000. That’s a lot for those looking to start out, even if they are connected to a farm family.

“That’s what makes all the difference, unfortunately. It’s restrictive to get in without that,” said one young woman, who was joined by her husband and three children at the show.

The young family is about to give up one career and start a chicken farm. A new barn is on the way.

“It’s already going up, so perfect world, we’d say by June,” her husband said.

The National Poultry Show runs through Thursday at the J-AAR Expo Centre at Western Fair District.