The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has recommended that poultry producers in Minnesota and South Dakota increase testing and monitoring of turkeys for bird flu before they are slaughtered. This measure is intended to prevent the virus from entering the food supply.
The agency advises that turkey flocks with more than 500 birds in these states be isolated, monitored, and tested for bird flu within 72 hours before going to slaughter. Other states may be included in this recommendation later.
This new policy is encouraged and supported by states and the industry, but it is not mandatory. The changes come after a pet food company, Northwest Naturals, recalled cat food made with turkey because it tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu).
The Oregon Department of Agriculture reported that a cat contracted the disease and died after eating Northwest Naturals' Feline Turkey Recipe raw and frozen pet food contaminated with the virus.
Nearly 70 people in the U.S., mostly farmworkers, have contracted bird flu since April. The virus has circulated among poultry flocks and dairy herds. Three people have tested positive without a clear source of exposure to the virus, according to the CDC. There is no confirmation that any people became infected by eating food that contained the virus.
Increased testing and surveillance of turkey flocks aim to remove a potential avenue for spreading the disease and to bolster confidence among consumers and trading partners.
Minnesota, the nation's biggest turkey producer, and South Dakota have experienced bird flu outbreaks in flocks. These states were selected for the enhanced testing and monitoring due to genetic linkages to the virus from infected cats and the high percentage of cases in turkeys in those states.
10 Comments
Donatello
This policy is a positive step towards protecting animal and human health. We should support efforts to ensure the safety of our food supply.
Leonardo
This is just another example of government overreach. Farmers should be trusted to manage their own flocks responsibly.
Michelangelo
Focusing solely on factory farms is insufficient. All poultry producers, regardless of size, have a responsibility to prevent the spread of disease.
Raphael
The policy is voluntary, allowing producers to choose the best approach for their operations. This flexibility ensures that no one is unfairly burdened.
Donatello
This is a knee-jerk reaction to a single isolated incident. One cat getting sick doesn't justify imposing this burden on the entire industry.
Noir Black
The policy aligns with industry best practices and demonstrates commitment to food safety. This proactive approach is commendable.
Loubianka
The government should focus on regulating factory farms, which pose a much greater risk for bird flu outbreaks.
Noir Black
While wild birds play a role, reducing the virus's presence in domestic flocks can help mitigate its overall spread.
Donatello
The USDA's decision is based on scientific evidence and expert recommendations. We should trust the agency's expertise in this matter.
Loubianka
Ultimately, this policy reflects a shared responsibility to protect public health and the poultry industry. By working together, we can minimize the impact of this virus.