

ICYMI: Bird Flu Is Roiling Egg Farms Across The Country
Feb 12, 2025
Nicole Martin, a food scientist and assistant research professor at Cornell University, dives into the ongoing bird flu crisis affecting egg production in the U.S. She details the drastic measures farmers are taking, including euthanizing infected flocks. Martin also explores how the avian influenza is impacting dairy farms and food safety. Consumers learn about the low risk of contamination in grocery stores and the importance of cooking and pasteurization. Additionally, she shares insights into improving milk quality and current challenges in food production.
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Bird Flu Impact
- Bird flu, H5N1, is impacting egg farms nationwide, leading to shortages in grocery stores.
- The virus has spread from poultry to other animals, including cows and humans, raising concerns about food safety.
Tracking and Mitigating H5N1
- The spread of H5N1 is tracked through monitoring and testing in poultry.
- Biosecurity measures like hygiene protocols and limiting wild bird contact are crucial for farms.
Challenges for Farmers
- The year-round spread of bird flu and large flock sizes pose challenges for farmers.
- These factors contribute to widespread outbreaks and necessitate large-scale euthanasia.