Unscrambling Recent Egg Research

The future looks promising for egg farmers as this small, but mighty, source of protein drives strong growth in egg exports and research advancements. The following links provide a brief overview of industry updates.

Although there are currently 27 countries consuming 250 or more eggs per person annually, the global appetite for U.S. eggs is growing and egg farmers are seeking to expand their market, according to a recent AgriPulse article. Maybe you are wondering, "why U.S. eggs?"--the answer is simple. They are subject to the highest standard of quality and safety while being monitored by multiple U.S. government agencies. Table eggs are washed, sanitized, packaged, and shipped all within hours of laying. A similar process is given to egg products. They are pasteurized and refrigerated throughout the supply chain to ensure they maintain their quality during their entire shelf life. Therefore, consumers in other countries are increasingly discovering a safe, nutritious, and versatile food and ingredient. 

The Egg Industry Center (EIC) at Iowa State University has recently released their first year-in-review research report. Featuring 22 new, ongoing, and completed research projects, their report provides brief overviews for egg farmers and others on center research. Additionally, it points readers to online resources that feature additional research details and media coverage of each project. More information on the EIC's research grant program can be found here.

Continuing their focus on the mission at hand, the EIC launched their newest initiative to expand coverage of nationwide egg industry research issues in December in hopes of capitalizing on their attendance at various industry events. Their goal is to help provide the information obtained at such events to a broader producer and allied industry audience--as they know the challenges associated with finding an opportunity to leave their responsibilities on the farm.  

In international news, the Australian government has announced new guidance for free-range egg producers prior to the April launch of their new National Information Standards rules. For a closer look at Australian free-range requirements, visit this recent PoultryWorld article. 

Related sources of egg industry information:

American Egg Board--The U.S. egg producer's link to consumers in communicating the value of the incredible egg. Their mission is to increase demand for egg and egg products on behalf of U.S. egg producers. 

Egg Industry Center--Works to add value to the egg industry by facilitating research and learning for egg producers, processors, and consumers through national and international collaboration. 

Egg Nutrition Center--A credible source of nutrition and health science information and the acknowledged leader in research and education related to eggs. 

Egg Safety Center--A resource about egg production on farms that follow the FDA Egg Safety Rule for eggs available in stores and to foodservices. 

United Egg Producers--A Capper-Volstead cooperative of U.S. farmers working collaboratively to address legislative, regulatory, and advocacy issues impacting egg production.

U.S. Poultry & Egg Association--A nonprofit organization that progressively serves its poultry and egg members through research, education, communications, and technical services.

By: Kylie Peterson