The Indiana State Poultry Association recently conducted its 76th Annual Poultry Presentation at the Statehouse, highlighting the invaluable contributions of growers in addressing food insecurity issues. According to Becky Joniskan, the head of the association, the event emphasizes the significant role poultry producers play throughout the year in combating hunger.
Joniskan emphasized the nutritional impact of poultry products, stating, “Two eggs a day is adequate protein for a child, so we really try to make sure we get those protein-rich foods into our food banks.”
In the year 2023, producers demonstrated their commitment by donating 200,000 pounds of duck, turkey, and chicken, along with 172,000 dozen eggs and a generous monetary contribution of $340,000 to Hoosier feeding programs.
Expressing gratitude, Joniskan highlighted the collective efforts of growers and their commitment to maintaining the highest levels of biosecurity and alertness. She specifically noted the successful prevention of highly pathogenic avian influenza during the current season, attributing the success to the growers’ vigilance.
“We are on our highest level of biosecurity and alert. This disease is spread by wild waterfowl, and it just does not discriminate,” Joniskan stated.
Indiana holds a prominent position in the poultry industry, leading the nation in duck production. The state also ranks as the second-largest producer of egg-laying chickens and eggs, and fourth for turkey production. The annual presentation not only recognizes these achievements but also serves as a platform to express gratitude for the industry’s commitment to addressing food insecurity in the region.
