The United States Department of Agriculture’s 2024 broiler forecast is out, and producer margins are riding on a reduction in cases of High-Path Avian Influenza (HPAI)
The USDA’s outlook board is projecting next year’s broiler production to be up about 1.5 percent, coming in just shy of 48 billion pounds. Prices are expected to average $1.28/pound, down about 2 percent in 2023.
However, outlook board chair Mark Jekanowski says producer margins could still improve—however, that depends on lower feed prices and an expectation for a decrease in HPAI cases.
HPAI is still a concern for poultry producers all across the U.S., but cases of the virus have slowed in recent weeks.
APHIS hasn’t posted a significant case of more than 100 birds since mid-April. The most recent was a facility in Indiana where 20 birds were culled.
Right now, the USDA is testing a handful of vaccine candidates, but industry experts warn there could be significant pushback because other countries don’t like vaccinated poultry.
Farm Bureau Economist Bernt Nelson says vaccinating the U.S. poultry population could cost the U.S. more than $6 billion dollars in lost trade value. Officials say producers should instead focus on keeping up with their biosecurity measures.
March 18, 2024 10:13 AM
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What can these facilities do to protect themselves? I wrote about this issue last spring, and since that time, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit has issued a significant opinion. That makes an update in order.
February 28, 2024 11:04 AM
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Duck hunting has been a part of Louisiana heritage since Cajuns first settled in the region. One man in central Louisiana is keeping the old ways alive by continuing to craft these prized duck calls rooted in tradition.
December 27, 2023 12:49 PM
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November 10, 2023 02:32 PM
This Gingery Chicken and Mushroom Soup is a comforting and nourishing option for cold weather, utilizing a medley of fresh, seasonal ingredients readily available in the winter.
November 10, 2023 01:14 PM
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The State of Louisiana is known as a major wintering location for North American waterfowl. However, a new visitor — a species of Whistling Ducks hailing from South America — may pose a problem to native species.
November 09, 2023 01:52 PM
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The FAO Food Price Index for October 2023 is out. Where do global food prices stand, and which categories saw the largest gains?
November 03, 2023 01:42 PM
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Falling feed costs and strong demand for butter could be good news for dairy farmers looking to get their finances back on track.
November 03, 2023 12:38 PM
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Researchers out of the United Kingdom are using gene editing technology to help make High-Path Avian Flu less of a threat to poultry.
October 12, 2023 12:38 PM
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