In a concerning turn of events, animal health authorities in Iowa have disclosed that approximately 103,000 turkeys have been afflicted with the virus responsible for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Concurrently, Michael Foods has reported HPAI outbreaks at egg-laying facilities operated by two of its third-party contractors.
The recent outbreak in Cherokee County marks the second confirmed case within a week, prompting swift action from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. To contain the spread of the virus, all affected turkeys are slated for culling. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster declaration for Cherokee County, facilitating coordinated efforts by state agencies, including the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Iowa Homeland Security, to monitor, detect, and manage the highly contagious pathogen. Notably, these are the first reported cases of HPAI in Iowa since December.
Meanwhile, Post Holdings Inc., the parent company of Michael Foods, has confirmed HPAI outbreaks at contracted egg-laying facilities in Hopkins, Minnesota. These facilities house a total of 5.7 million hens. The impacted contractors in Minnesota and Iowa collectively supply approximately 14% of the eggs utilized by Michael Foods. Based in St. Louis, Michael Foods is renowned for its diverse portfolio encompassing foodservice, food ingredient, and retail offerings, with a particular focus on innovative egg products.
