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# United Egg Producers

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## Posts

- [News](https://unitedegg.com/news/)
- [UEP's May Meetings Address Key Egg Industry Concerns](https://unitedegg.com/ueps-may-meetings-address-key-egg-industry-concerns/) - During last week's 2026 UEP Legislative Board and Committee Meetings, attendees heard from US Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin, who emphasized his ongoing desire to continue “fixing the deregulatory mess” egg farmers currently find themselves involved in. As the keynote speaker, Zeldin encouraged all 170 attendees gathered in Washington, DC, to pursue passionate advocacy in all areas
- [2024 AEB-UEP Annual Joint Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/2024-aeb-uep-annual-joint-meeting/) - The third annual American Egg Board and United Egg Producers Joint Annual Executive Conference begins on Tuesday, Oct. 14, in Colorado Springs, CO. Dynamic speakers and informative panels are scheduled for the AEB-UEP Joint General Session on Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning. See below for information to prepare for the meetings and activities: Conference Schedule:
- [Meant to be Broken: Key takeaways from the third Annual AEB-UEP Joint Conference](https://unitedegg.com/meant-to-be-broken-key-takeaways-from-the-third-annual-aeb-uep-joint-conference/) - Nearly 450 American Egg Board (AEB) members, UEP and UEA members and industry stakeholders met at the third Annual Executive Conference, themed “Meant to Be Broken”, on Oct. 14 in Colorado Springs, CO. UEP President and CEO Chad Gregory and AEB President and CEO Emily Metz kicked off the joint general session highlighting egg industry
- [UEP committee briefings overview and election results](https://unitedegg.com/uep-committee-briefings-overview-and-election-results/) - At the 2024 Joint Annual Executive Conference, UEP re-elected officers during the Board meeting on Oct. 17: Mike West as chair; J.T. Dean as vice chair; Sherman Miller as treasurer; and Sandra Lausecker as secretary. The Board also elected representatives for each respective Area, and 15 at-large members. The Animal Welfare Issues Briefing, led by
- [UEP committee briefings overview and election results](https://unitedegg.com/uep-committee-briefings-overview-and-election-results-2/) - At the 2025 Joint Annual Executive Conference, UEP elected the following officers during the Board meeting: J.T. Dean as chair; Sherman Miller as vice chair; Sandra Lausecker as treasurer; and Peter Forsman as secretary. The Board also elected representatives for each respective Area, and 15 at-large members. The Animal Welfare Issues Briefing, led by Chair
- [UEP Legislative Meetings address key egg industry issues](https://unitedegg.com/uep-legislative-meetings-address-key-egg-industry-issues/) - During last week's 2025 UEP Legislative Board and Committee Meetings, attendees heard from United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (MN), who spoke with egg producers about key issues impacting agriculture and egg production. She emphasized her commitment to working across the aisle to find bipartisan solutions to the challenges facing the industry. The week began with
- [The Unscrambled Egg® cracks the code & wins big](https://unitedegg.com/the-unscrambled-egg-cracks-the-code-wins-big/) - UEP is proud to share that its campaign, The Unscrambled Egg®, is earning national acclaim—winning alongside other agricultural and food & beverage titans. Launched in partnership with agency Bader Rutter, this campaign set out to establish United Egg Producers as the trusted authority behind UEP Certified. Over the past year, The Unscrambled Egg® has been
- [UEP tackles industry issues at 2025 January Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/uep-tackles-industry-issues-at-2025-january-meeting/) - United Egg Producers’ 2025 January meeting, chaired by Mike West, opened with industry-focused discussions with over 300 UEP members, UEA members, and industry stakeholders in attendance. Membership qualifications were updated under the new membership agreement, and various committee reports were presented, including updates on animal health, welfare, food safety, government relations, and sustainability. A significant
- [What is In-Ovo Sexing?](https://unitedegg.com/what-is-in-ovo-sexing/) - In 2016, the United Egg Producers made a groundbreaking commitment to advance the layer industry through the innovative practice of in-ovo sexing. But what exactly is this revolutionary technology? In-ovo sexing enables the determination of a chicken embryo's sex while it's still nestled in the egg, long before hatching ever occurs. This technique is not applied
- [UEP Weathers Storm to Deliver Successful 2026 January Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/uep-weathers-storm-to-deliver-successful-2026-january-meeting/) - Despite inclement and icy weather conditions in Atlanta, the United Egg Producers’ 2026 January meeting was well attended with more than 300 UEP members, UEA members, and industry stakeholders participating in the annual event. UEP quickly pivoted to a hybrid meeting format to engage members both onsite, at the Omni Atlanta Hotel, and remotely to
- [Report Details Risks from Globally Concentrated Vitamin & Amino Acid Supply to the Layer Industry](https://unitedegg.com/report-details-risks-from-globally-concentrated-vitamin-amino-acid-supply-to-the-layer-industry/) - A new IFEEDER-supported assessment reveals that while the U.S. egg layer industry depends heavily on imported vitamins and amino acids, the broader concern lies in the global concentration of production, especially in China, combined with limited North American capacity. These nutrients—including methionine, lysine, threonine, tryptophan, and vitamins A, D, E and the B-complex—are essential for
- [Highlights and takeaways from the fourth Annual AEB-UEP Joint Conference](https://unitedegg.com/highlights-and-takeaways-from-the-fourth-annual-aeb-uep-joint-conference/) - Nearly 500 American Egg Board (AEB) members, UEP and UEA members and industry stakeholders met at the fourth Annual Executive Conference, themed “Stronger By The Dozen”, the week of October 13th in Louisville, KY. UEP President and CEO Chad Gregory and AEB President and CEO Emily Metz kicked off the joint general session, highlighting egg
- [Honoring industry leaders during UEP-AEB banquet](https://unitedegg.com/honoring-industry-leaders-during-uep-aeb-banquet/) - The UEP’s President’s Award and the Egg Producer of the Year awards have recognized and celebrated exceptional contributions and achievements in the egg industry. These prestigious awards honor individuals who exemplify excellence and showcase their commitment to advancing egg production. The President’s Award honors those who have profoundly impacted UEP and the egg farming community.
- [2025 AEB-UEP Annual Joint Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/2025-aeb-uep-annual-joint-meeting/) - The fourth annual American Egg Board and United Egg Producers Joint Annual Executive Conference begins on Monday, October 13th, in Louisville, KY. Dynamic speakers and informative panels are scheduled for the AEB-UEP Joint General Session on Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning. See below for information to prepare for the meetings and activities. Conference Schedule: Click here for the detailed schedule
- [5 Steps to Get Recall-Ready: Practical Tips for Preparing and Responding Effectively](https://unitedegg.com/5-steps-to-get-recall-ready-practical-tips-for-preparing-and-responding-effectively/) - Crises don’t have a schedule and often come at the most inconvenient times. The way your company responds to a crisis, like a recall, can define public perception and the economic future of your business. The key to minimizing damage isn’t reacting faster; it’s preparing smarter. Here are five things you can do now to
- [House Ag holds hearing on Prop 12](https://unitedegg.com/house-ag-holds-hearing-on-prop-12/) - On Thursday, July 24, the House Agriculture Committee met to examine the implications of California’s Proposition 12 (Prop 12), a state ballot measure that required sows, egg-laying hens, and calves for veal production intended for California’s marketplace to meet minimum confinement standards. Both parties evaluated the Supreme Court of the United States’ (SCOTUS) 2022 ruling
- [Rollins announces USDA reorganization](https://unitedegg.com/rollins-announces-usda-reorganization/) - Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced a major reorganization of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a move that will see many Washington, D.C., employees relocated and several historic department buildings shuttered. In a news release, the department said the reorganization aims at “refocusing its core operations to better align with its founding mission of supporting
- [States move to bar sodas, candy in SNAP](https://unitedegg.com/states-move-to-bar-sodas-candy-in-snap/) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture is approving a growing number of state waivers to restrict what foods can be purchased through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has approved waiver requests from Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska and Utah. All the waivers ban SNAP
- [HPAI detections continue into June due to dairy infections](https://unitedegg.com/hpai-detections-continue-into-june-due-to-dairy-infections/) - So far in 2025, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has affected 53 commercial layer and pullet farms, with more than 39.3 million birds impacted. Since February 2022, the total has reached 139 commercial layer and/or pullet sites and 138.31 million birds. Layer and pullet detections slowed in recent months, with four cases reported in March
- [USDA to dismantle several advisory committees](https://unitedegg.com/usda-to-dismantle-several-advisory-committees/) - On May 27, the Federal Register released a notice that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) intends to disband seven advisory committees aligning with President Trump’s Executive Order (EO), “Commencing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy,” which works to minimize waste, fraud, and abuse by reducing federal bureaucracy. The named committees to be disbanded include:
- [House clears budget resolution, unlocking the reconciliation process](https://unitedegg.com/house-clears-budget-resolution-unlocking-the-reconciliation-process/) - Last week, the House of Representatives passed the Senate-amended budget framework, pushing the reconciliation process forward and getting the chamber one step closer to the goal of “one big, beautiful bill,” as described by President Trump. The resolution passed 216-214, with Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN) being the only two Republicans
- [Trump announces 90-day tariff pause](https://unitedegg.com/trump-announces-90-day-tariff-pause/) - President Trump announced plans to temporarily halt the country-specific reciprocal tariffs for 90 days, except for the tariffs on China. Following the announcement, the White House clarified that all countries’ reciprocal tariffs will be brought down to the 10% baseline rate, except for tariffs on China, which currently sit at a rate of 145% at
- [Congressional budget blueprint in progress](https://unitedegg.com/congressional-budget-blueprint-in-progress/) - On Saturday, April 5, Senate Republicans advanced their budgetary framework through the fiscal 2025 budget resolution process by a 51-48 vote. The budget was largely supported by Republicans, with only two GOP Senators voting against it, Susan Collins of Maine, and Rand Paul of Kentucky. The budget framework includes a $5 trillion debt ceiling increase
- [Trump tariffs roil markets](https://unitedegg.com/trump-tariffs-roil-markets/) - Financial markets sold off around the world as President Trump imposed steep tariffs on virtually every country except for Canada and Mexico. The two members of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement did not escape unscathed, though, since they are already subject to 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum products, as well as on any traded goods that
- [Tony Wesner testifies before Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry](https://unitedegg.com/tony-wesner-testifies-before-senate-committee-on-agriculture-nutrition-forestry/) - On Wednesday, February 26, Tony Wesner, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Rose Acre Farms, testified before the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry during the "Perspectives From the Field: Farmer and Rancher Views on the Agricultural Economy" hearing. Wesner, representing United Egg Producers (UEP), shared insights into the ongoing challenges
- [Some tariffs on hold, for now](https://unitedegg.com/some-tariffs-on-hold-for-now/) - Hours before tariffs were scheduled to go into effect against Canada and Mexico, President Trump agreed to delay them for 30 days after gaining assurances of stronger efforts to control the flow of people and fentanyl across both borders. The assurances from the leaders of Canada and Mexico, which included some steps the two governments
- [Ongoing HPAI outbreak enters its fourth year](https://unitedegg.com/ongoing-hpai-outbreak-enters-its-fourth-year/) - Last month, there were 15 HPAI detections in commercial layers, and in the past 30 days, there have been 117 flock detections in total. 63 of those detections are commercial and 54 are backyard, affecting 12.96 million birds. Due to warmer temperatures last fall, migration was delayed, and this trend is expected to continue until
- [FDA issues guidance for meat, egg imitators](https://unitedegg.com/fda-issues-guidance-for-meat-egg-imitators/) - The Food and Drug Administration published draft guidance for labeling plant-based alternatives to animal-derived products, including eggs. However, with the guidance arriving during the final weeks of the Biden administration, the document’s future fate is uncertain. Under the draft guidance, plant-based alternatives would be permitted to use the name of another food as long as
- [House and Senate kick off the 119th Congress](https://unitedegg.com/house-and-senate-kick-off-the-119th-congress/) - Congress returned on Friday, January 3, to begin the 119th Congress. One of the first orders of business was electing a Speaker of the House. Despite concerns from some members of the House Republican Conference, Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) was reelected by almost all the Republican Conference’s slim majority. The focus now shifts to reconciliation,
- [HPAI: Looking back and looking ahead](https://unitedegg.com/hpai-looking-back-and-looking-ahead/) - 2024 has brought no relief to egg production with HPAI infections continuing to skyrocket, and the threat level has compounded since March following a single spillover event of HPAI into dairy cattle. The virus spread to over 707 dairy herds in 15 states this year. California alone has had 493 positive dairies reported in the
- [EPA releases Final Rodenticide Biological Evaluation](https://unitedegg.com/epa-releases-final-rodenticide-biological-evaluation/) - On November 22, 2024, EPA released the final biological evaluation (BE) on rodenticides. The following highlights are important: This docket update includes the final BE and associated response to comments for 11 rodenticide active ingredients. The 11 rodenticides include: chlorophacinone; diphacinone and its sodium salt; warfarin and its sodium salt; brodifacoum; bromadiolone; difenacoum; difethialone; bromethalin; cholecalciferol;
- [Dan Fields appointed to USDA Task Force](https://unitedegg.com/dan-fields-appointed-to-usda-task-force/) - On November 18, 2024, USDA announced its appointment of 27 new members to its Task Force on Agricultural Air Quality Research. The appointees to the Task Force include Dan Fields, Vice President of Compliance, Sustainability & Regulatory Affairs at Herbruck's Poultry Ranch, Inc. Fields serves as a member of UEP’s Environment and Sustainability Committee, and
- [Additional HPAI detections in western US dairies and poultry flocks](https://unitedegg.com/additional-hpai-detections-in-western-us-dairies-and-poultry-flocks/) - Recently, there have been two HPAI detections in layer operations in California and Arizona, which bring the total layer detections in this outbreak since February 2022 to 68 layer and pullets flocks totaling over 82.7 million birds. The outbreak has affected 523 commercial flocks and 681 backyard flocks, totaling 107.6 million birds. Of the 13 infected layer
- [President-elect Donald Trump picks Zeldin to lead EPA](https://unitedegg.com/president-elect-donald-trump-picks-zeldin-to-lead-epa/) - On November 11, 2024, it was announced that President-elect Donald Trump selected former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator. Zeldin served four terms as a House Republican member and then lost the 2022 New York Governor's race to Kathy Hochul. It is expected that Zeldin's first task will
- [USPOULTRY hosts HPAI Impact & Insights Forum](https://unitedegg.com/uspoultry-hosts-hpai-impact-insights-forum/) - The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) recently hosted a HPAI Impact & Insights Forum on October 29-30 in Arlington, Virginia. The event brought together industry professionals, researchers, and stakeholders across the barnyard to assess the ongoing situation surrounding HPAI and its effects on the domestic and international poultry sectors. Key discussions centered around the latest
- [HPAI detections continue to increase in dairy cattle](https://unitedegg.com/hpai-detections-continue-to-increase-in-dairy-cattle/) - Three new detections have been identified in layer operations in UT, WA, and OR over the past 10 days as the autumnal migration kicks into a full press across the Pacific Northwest and most of the Midwest. Birdcast estimates that over 320 million birds were moving after midnight on October 22, 2023. Multiple non-negative wild
- [Celebrating Excellence: Organizations recognize leaders during AEB-UEP Banquet](https://unitedegg.com/celebrating-excellence-organizations-recognize-leaders-during-aeb-uep-banquet/) - For years, UEP's President's Award and the Egg Producer of the Year awards have recognized and celebrated exceptional contributions and achievements within the egg industry. These prestigious awards honor individuals who exemplify excellence and showcase their commitment to advancing egg production. Each year, the President's Award honors someone who has profoundly impacted UEP and the
- [UEP joins Phosphorus Science Workshop](https://unitedegg.com/uep-joins-phosphorus-science-workshop/) - On October 1, 2024, the Agricultural Nutrient Policy Council (ANPC) hosted a Phosphorus Science and Emerging Research Workshop in Washington, DC. ANPC is a coalition of more than 40 state and national agricultural trade associations and agribusinesses focused on helping agriculture work with state and federal agencies and members of the scientific community to protect water
- [UEP disappointed in NFPA sprinkler appeal denial](https://unitedegg.com/uep-disappointed-in-nfpa-sprinkler-appeal-denial/) - On August 28, 2024, UEP joined the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Pork Producers Council, and US Poultry & Egg Association (Ag Coalition) in Boston to appeal the decision from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Technical Committee meeting in June to update NFPA 150 to require sprinklers in agricultural barns of certain sizes. On
- [Farm Bill expires; “dairy cliff” could force action](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill-expires-dairy-cliff-could-force-action/) - On Sept. 25, the House and Senate approved a continuing resolution to fund the government through Dec. 20. The bill also included an additional $321 million in funding for the Secret Service. Having avoided a government shutdown before the Sept. 30 deadline, Congress has recessed, and members are returning to their districts before November’s election.
- [2024 AEB-UEP Joint Annual Executive Conference](https://unitedegg.com/2024-aeb-uep-joint-annual-executive-conference/) - The Joint Annual Executive Conference, presented by United Egg Producers and the American Egg Board, is scheduled to take place from October 14-17, 2024 in Colorado Springs, CO. The third-annual joint conference will be an exceptional gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders. Attendees will engage and learn, explore cutting-edge developments, and help shape the
- [Overall farm income to fall; egg revenues way up](https://unitedegg.com/overall-farm-income-to-fall-egg-revenues-way-up/) - The latest estimates on 2024 farm income from USDA’s Economic Research Service are out, with overall farm-sector income down but revenues on egg farms substantially higher than last year. Net cash farm income is forecast to fall in 2024 by $12 billion or 7.2%, compared to 2023, while net farm income will fall $6.5 billion
- [Valuable updates shared during UEP’s 2024 Area Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/valuable-updates-shared-during-ueps-2024-area-briefings/) - Over 400 participants attended the 2024 UEP Area Briefings held in four virtual sessions on August 20 and 21. Presenters shared valuable information on current and future UEP and egg industry initiatives. Each briefing started with opening comments by the Area Chairs. UEP’s president and CEO, Chad Gregory, reviewed various UEP Board motions from the
- [Minnesota drinking water initiatives target agriculture](https://unitedegg.com/minnesota-drinking-water-initiatives-target-agriculture/) - In April 2023, EPA received a Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) emergency petition from environmental groups regarding the southeast karst region (a landscape of sinkholes, sinking streams, caves, springs) of the state. Environmental groups claimed that nitrate contamination in public water systems and underground sources of drinking water is causing an imminent and substantial endangerment
- [APHIS plans rulemaking on indemnities](https://unitedegg.com/aphis-plans-rulemaking-on-indemnities/) - The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) plans to issue a proposed rule to change its animal disease indemnity regulations in May 2025, according to the most recent unified regulatory agenda issued by the Office of Management and Budget. The proposed rule would come more than two years after APHIS issued an advance notice
- [FSIS declares Salmonella is adulterant in chicken](https://unitedegg.com/fsis-declares-salmonella-is-adulterant-in-chicken/) - The Food Safety and Inspection Service proposed to declare Salmonella an adulterant in several poultry meat categories when present above a threshold level. The proposed rule and determination would treat Salmonella as an adulterant in raw chicken carcasses, chicken parts, ground chicken and ground turkey if (1) any type was present above 10 colony forming
- [Memo from USDA AMS](https://unitedegg.com/memo-from-usda-ams/) - USDA AMS Livestock & Poultry Program, Quality Assessment Division (QAD) has transitioned to a new system where egg grading results, pre-op sanitation reports, certificates, approved labeling and more will be recorded and stored digitally instead of paper or pdf forms. QAD can now offer customers operational and quality data recorded in the system through the three
- [Coalition efforts continue to push back against sprinkler mandate](https://unitedegg.com/coalition-efforts-continue-to-push-back-against-sprinkler-mandate/) - At the National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) Technical Meeting last month, NFPA adopted a revised standard for animal operations (NFPA 150) that would require the installation of sprinkler systems in animal houses of specific sizes. In March 2024, UEP, National Pork Producers Council, US Poultry & Egg Association, the American Horse Council and insurance professionals
- [Colorado layer farm hit with HPAI](https://unitedegg.com/colorado-layer-farm-hit-with-hpai/) - A commercial layer farm in Weld County, CO, is the latest to experience an HPAI detection since the virus was first found in dairy cattle. Since April 2, 2024, a total of seven layer farms have been impacted in five states, affecting over 15.72 million birds. Dairy detections continue to rise, now reaching a total
- [OMB reviewing labeling documents](https://unitedegg.com/omb-reviewing-labeling-documents/) - The Office of Management and Budget is reviewing two regulatory documents that could affect how labeling rules apply to products that compete with animal-based foods, including eggs. One is a proposed rule from the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) entitled “Labeling of Meat and Poultry Products Made Using Animal Cell Culture Technology.” FSIS and
- [UEP participates in Animal Agriculture Water Quality Subcommittee meeting](https://unitedegg.com/uep-participates-in-animal-agriculture-water-quality-subcommittee-meeting/) - On November 16, 2023, EPA published a request for nominations to the Farm, Ranch and Rural Communities Advisory Committee's (FRRCC) new Animal Agriculture and Water Quality (AAWQ) Subcommittee. The formation of this subcommittee is the result of EPA's denial of the environmental groups' petitions seeking additional regulation. The Subcommittee effort will run on a parallel
- [UEP members visit with EPA staff on priority environmental issues](https://unitedegg.com/uep-members-visit-with-epa-staff-on-priority-environmental-issues/) - While in Washington, UEP's Environment and Sustainability Committee members and staff met with EPA on priority environmental issues facing the egg industry. EPA was represented in the meeting by the Agricultural Advisor, career staff, and career staff from the Office of Air & Radiation, Office of Water, and Office of Pesticide Programs. Regarding the National
- [UEP Members come together during Legislative Board and Committee Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/uep-members-come-together-during-legislative-board-and-committee-meetings/) - During last week's UEP Legislative Board and Committee Meetings, attendees heard from United States Representative Randy Feenstra and United States Senator John Boozman before visiting other Senators and members of Congress on the Hill. The week’s agenda began with a review of UEP’s position papers, led by UEP consultants Randy Green and Louie Perry. The
- [New rule may boost eggs in schools](https://unitedegg.com/new-rule-may-boost-eggs-in-schools/) - New regulations to align school meals with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans may help schools offer more eggs and other meat alternates at breakfast. The regulation, announced by the Food and Nutrition Service April 24, makes major changes to the menu rules for school lunches and breakfasts, including lower sodium limits and new limits on
- [U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission releases Climate-Disclosure Rule and faces immediate legal challenges](https://unitedegg.com/u-s-securities-and-exchange-commission-releases-climate-disclosure-rule-and-faces-immediate-legal-challenges/) - On March 6, 2024, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued its final rule requiring large corporations to disclose their carbon footprint but excluded the controversial mandate to track Scope 3 emissions, which refers to greenhouse gas emissions in supply chains. Instead, the final rule will require most businesses to track Scope 1 and
- [UEP meets with key FDA official](https://unitedegg.com/uep-meets-with-key-fda-official/) - UEP staff held an introductory meeting with Jim Jones, the new Deputy Commissioner for Foods at the Food and Drug Administration. Jones is engaged in a major reorganization of FDA’s human foods programs, which came under criticism in an outside study by the Reagan-Udall Foundation. In contrast to recent practice, Jones reports directly to FDA
- [FSIS finalizes U.S. origin rule](https://unitedegg.com/fsis-finalizes-u-s-origin-rule/) - The Food Safety and Inspection Service finalized a regulation that sets out conditions for making voluntary “Product of USA” claims for meat, poultry and egg products. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack announced the final rule at the National Farmers Union’s annual meeting, calling the regulation “a vital step toward consumer protection.” The regulation has already
- [First case of HPAI detected in domestic livestock](https://unitedegg.com/first-case-of-hpai-detected-in-domestic-livestock/) - HPAI detections continue to trickle in as vernal migration ramps up, with waterfowl moving to summer locations to give birth and raise offspring. Producers should evaluate overall biosecurity implementation on their farms in preparation for the coming migration as temperatures begin to warm across the country. Since February 2022, 80.02M birds have been affected, with
- [1994 to 2024: Marking the National Egg Quality School 30th anniversary](https://unitedegg.com/1994-to-2024-marking-the-national-egg-quality-school-30th-anniversary/) - In the 1930s, quality standards were developed to establish a common language for buying and selling of eggs. There was a need for both industry and government to uniformly apply the quality standards. Egg Schools began to develop on a regional basis to meet that need as well as educate industry on maintaining egg quality
- [Avian metapneumovirus detected in the U.S.](https://unitedegg.com/avian-metapneumovirus-detected-in-the-u-s/) - On Jan. 23, the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) confirmed avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) subtype B in samples from a National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) laboratory. These samples originated from turkeys and broilers in Virginia and North Carolina. We are also hearing of cases in Pennsylvania and South Carolina. APHIS also confirmed, on Feb. 1,
- [Experts share insights during UEP’s HPAI session](https://unitedegg.com/experts-share-insights-during-ueps-hpai-session/) - Before kicking off UEP’s 2024 January Issues Briefings and Committee Meetings, UEP hosted three global experts to discuss vaccination, surveillance needs, and trade hurdles related to the ongoing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreak. Dr. David Suarez, laboratory director for exotic and emerging avian viral diseases research at USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), began the
- [USDA seeks nominations for GCC](https://unitedegg.com/usda-seeks-nominations-for-gcc/) - USDA is soliciting nominations of people to serve on the National Poultry Improvement Plan’s General Conference Committee (GCC). USDA seeks to replace three regional members and alternates from the North Atlantic, East North Central, Western regions, and Member-at-Large. The current terms for these four member positions expire in August 2024. We will accept nominations from
- [EPA updates](https://unitedegg.com/epa-updates/) - EPA webinar regarding animal feeding operations air emission estimation methods On Jan. 19, 2024, the Livestock and Poultry Environmental Learning Community hosted USEPA staff (Bebhinn Do, Bill Schrock and Ian Rumsey) for an in-depth discussion of the background, status, and next steps regarding the Animal Feeding Operations Air Emission Estimation Methods (EEMs). USEPA staff noted
- [Strong attendance at UEP January meetings](https://unitedegg.com/strong-attendance-at-uep-january-meetings/) - More than 300 UEP and UEA members and industry stakeholders gathered in Atlanta, GA, for UEP's January meetings. While the ongoing highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak and recommendations for heightened biosecurity were a focus of discussions in the briefings, other significant accomplishments and issues were also presented. Committee Briefings Chair Sherman Miller opened the Animal
- [USDA & DOE to host series of Virtual Listening Sessions on American farms](https://unitedegg.com/usda-doe-to-host-series-of-virtual-listening-sessions-on-american-farms/) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are spending large sums of money to support the development of “clean energy” projects in agricultural and rural areas. The USDA and DOE are aware of the conflicts and divisions this is creating among those wanting these projects in their community or on
- [Upcoming FDA Regulations will affect egg industry](https://unitedegg.com/upcoming-fda-regulations-will-affect-egg-industry/) - The Food and Drug Administration plans a range of rulemaking this year that could directly affect the egg industry, according to the agency’s section of the latest Unified Regulatory Agenda. The agenda, which is compiled by the Office of Management and Budget, lists significant regulations that are in the works from all federal agencies. The
- [HPAI detections continue as 2023 comes to a close](https://unitedegg.com/hpai-detections-continue-as-2023-comes-to-a-close/) - After an extended time with no HPAI detections in commercial layers, fall 2023 has brought a new round of detections to layer flocks across the country as the fall migration continues. Since Oct. 31, 2023, 10 commercial layer flocks have had detections claiming 10,549,000 layers. It should be noted that of the 10,549,000 layers affected
- [UEP calls for extension period for commenting on rodenticide biological evaluation](https://unitedegg.com/uep-calls-for-extension-period-for-commenting-on-rodenticide-biological-evaluation/) - UEP is asking the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to grant a 60-day extension for commenting on its biological evaluation (BE) of the effects of rodenticide use on threatened and endangered species. Endangered Species Act (ESA) litigation has forced the EPA to conduct this evaluation for multiple pesticides, including rodenticides, and to require restrictions on these products’ use
- [Agencies aim to fight food waste, loss](https://unitedegg.com/agencies-aim-to-fight-food-waste-loss/) - The Biden administration launched a National Strategy to Reduce Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics, part of the broader National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health that was announced at last year’s White House conference on nutrition. The new strategy is led by the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Agriculture and the Food
- [New AMS grants could benefit egg industry](https://unitedegg.com/new-ams-grants-could-benefit-egg-industry/) - USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has made up to $420 million available to state agriculture departments under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. Through cooperative agreements with states, AMS will provide funds to “maintain and improve food and agricultural supply chain resiliency,” according to the agency – a process that could benefit egg farms, poultry
- [EPCRA advance notice of proposed rulemaking](https://unitedegg.com/epcra-advance-notice-of-proposed-rulemaking/) - As shared in a previous UEP newsletter, at the beginning of November, EPA withdrew from consideration the draft proposed rule that would have required animal operations to report air emissions of ammonia to state and local emergency response authorities under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). While that was a positive development for animal
- [First commercial layer detection in 320 days](https://unitedegg.com/first-commercial-layer-detection-in-320-days/) - Last week, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed HPAI H5N1 in a Minnesota commercial layer flock, where 940,000 hens were housed. This was the first commercial layer detection in 320 days since striking a Colorado farm on Dec. 20, 2022. In addition to the Minnesota case, APHIS posted a commercial turkey
- [House Democrats introduce Clean Water Act of 2023](https://unitedegg.com/house-democrats-introduce-clean-water-act-of-2023/) - On the 51st anniversary of the Clean Water Act, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Transportation, and Infrastructure Rick Larsen (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Grace Napolitano (D-CA), Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA), Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM) and 114 House Democrats introduced the Clean Water Act of 2023. The legislation is a
- [First Lady Dr. Jill Biden visits Outward Farms on World Egg Day](https://unitedegg.com/first-lady-dr-jill-biden-visits-outward-farms-on-world-egg-day/) - On World Egg Day, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden traveled to Raymond, Ohio, to visit and tour Onward Farms, a family-owned egg farm by co-founder and CEO Sandra Lausecker and her brother Daniel Lausecker. In a tour led by the American Egg Board (AEB) and Sandra, Biden learned about egg production and what it takes
- [Committee briefings overview and election results](https://unitedegg.com/committee-briefings-overview-and-election-results/) - During the 2023 Annual Conference, UEP elected new officers at the Board meeting on Oct. 5: Mike West as chair; J.T. Dean as vice chair; Sherman Miller as treasurer; and Sandra Lausecker as secretary. The Board also elected representatives for each respective Area, and 15 at-large members. Matt Dean chaired the Government Relations Briefing, and UEP's
- [Engaging speakers and panelists during Joint Session](https://unitedegg.com/engaging-speakers-and-panelists-during-joint-session/) - Speakers and panelists provided insights into the "Future of Eggs" and more during the AEB-UEP Joint General Session at the Annual Meeting. Brad Bennett, an ethnographer, and founder of B. Bennett Company, kicked things off with a discussion of "Eggs for Dinner," providing insights into food philosophies and ways to utilize consumer perceptions to foster
- [Thirteen environmental groups sue EPA on CAFO Rule](https://unitedegg.com/thirteen-environmental-groups-sue-epa-on-cafo-rule/) - On Sept. 9, 2023, Food & Water Watch (FWW) and a dozen other environmental groups filed a lawsuit in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco, asking the court to reject EPA's denial last month of the groups’ two petitions that sought to make Clean Water Act CAFO rule regulations more aggressive and stringent. The
- [EPA and USACE issue new final WOTUS rule](https://unitedegg.com/epa-and-usace-issue-new-final-wotus-rule/) - On Aug. 29, 2023, EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced a new final rule amending the 2023 definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS). The new rule constitutes the agencies' effort to address the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Sackett v. EPA. Under the new rule, two primary changes were made:
- [UEP hosts 2023 Area Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/uep-hosts-2023-area-briefings/) - UEP would like to thank everyone who participated in the Area Briefings held in four virtual sessions on Aug. 15-16. Through UEA Allied's sponsorship, UEP was able to reach over 200 registered lines. Based on member feedback, UEP understands there were many more tuning in, as multiple companies utilize these briefings to bring employees together
- [Sackett v. EPA: What to know](https://unitedegg.com/sackett-v-epa-what-to-know/) - The Supreme Court's Sackett decision will change how the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) have sought to implement the Clean Water Act (CWA). The Court's rule explicitly directs agencies to stop reaching for CWA jurisdiction beyond tributaries with "relatively permanent" flow to traditionally navigable waters or beyond those wetlands with
- [House raises the debt limit](https://unitedegg.com/house-raises-the-debt-limit/) - On June 3, President Biden signed H.R. 3746, the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, into law to raise the debt limit until Jan. 2025. Earlier in the week, the bill passed in the House on a 314-117 vote, while the Senate passed the bill on a 63-36 vote, with results showing a decent display of
- [USDA announces plans to strengthen substantiation of animal-raising claims](https://unitedegg.com/usda-announces-plans-to-strengthen-substantiation-of-animal-raising-claims/) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced yesterday that it will soon take steps to improve its label approval program for meat and poultry products to avoid misleading consumers. The FSIS plan includes guidance on marketing claims such as “grass-fed,” “free-range” and antibiotic usage. The release indicates that FSIS will
- [SCOTUS strikes down WOTUS significant nexus test; Sackett decision issued](https://unitedegg.com/scotus-strikes-down-wotus-significant-nexus-test-sackett-decision-issued/) - The Supreme Court issued its long-awaited decision on the Sackett v. EPA case today, unanimously rejecting the use of the significant nexus test to determine Clean Water Act (CWA) jurisdiction. The Sacketts of Idaho asked the Supreme Court to review a decision of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which upheld a District Court’s decision that a wetland they
- [EPA proposed settlement](https://unitedegg.com/epa-proposed-settlement/) - On April 21, 2023, EPA issued public comments on a proposed settlement agreement with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF). The settlement is the latest development in CBF's 2020 lawsuit filed with Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. The lawsuit claims EPA failed to meet its Clean Water Act (CWA) duty to ensure the state of
- [News from Washington](https://unitedegg.com/news-from-washington-3/) - House Agriculture Committee holds hearing on animal disease Last week, the House Committee on Agriculture’s Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry held a hearing on USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) animal disease prevention and response efforts. Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt and APHIS Associate Deputy Administrator for
- [UEP weighs in on plant-based milk alternatives](https://unitedegg.com/uep-weighs-in-on-plant-based-milk-alternatives/) - Plant-based products that imitate animal products should be required to disclose their nutrient shortfalls and be labeled “imitation,” UEP said in comments filed with the Food and Drug Administration. FDA is taking comments on a guidance document that deals with plant-based milk alternatives. However, the agency has announced it will issue a similar guidance document
- [Secretary Vilsack testifies before Congress](https://unitedegg.com/secretary-vilsack-testifies-before-congress/) - Last week, Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack testified before the House Committee on Agriculture as it prepares for the upcoming farm bill. He also testified on President Biden’s budget request for fiscal year 2024 before the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration. Throughout these hearings, Republican
- [UEP VP of Finance retires after 25 years of service](https://unitedegg.com/uep-vp-of-finance-retires-after-25-years-of-service/) - After more than 25 years with the organization, United Egg Producers’ Vice President of Finance Sherry Shedd retires at the end of this month. Over the weekend, Shedd was thrown a retirement party and shared a few thoughts about her time at UEP. Why did you choose a career as an accountant? I received a
- [Plant-based milk guidance could have implications for eggs](https://unitedegg.com/plant-based-milk-guidance-could-have-implications-for-eggs/) - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued draft guidance that would allow plant-based beverages to use the word “milk” in their names but recommends that they disclose nutrients where they fall short of amounts found in real milk. Under this guidance, which is open for comment until April 24, beverages like almond milk could not
- [Cage-free housing conversion research released](https://unitedegg.com/cage-free-housing-conversion-research-released/) - With funding from FMI Foundation, UEP, and UEA, a team of researchers from Michigan State University, in collaboration with Kansas State University and Purdue University, released a study on conventional to cage-free housing conversion. The study investigated challenges and opportunities associated with the transition to cage-free housing, which included survey and interview data from egg producers,
- [U.S. egg industry braces for spring migration](https://unitedegg.com/u-s-egg-industry-braces-for-spring-migration/) - It has been over a year since the first Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) detection in February 2022 on a U.S. egg farm. Egg farmers across the country continue to evaluate biosecurity plans and implementation in anticipation of active spring migration. February 2023 has brought four commercial detections and 15 backyard detections, totaling 190 thousand
- [UEP weighs in on WIC “healthy” claims](https://unitedegg.com/uep-weighs-in-on-wic-healthy-claims/) - Eggs should be able to make “healthy” claims on cartons, and the number of eggs offered by the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children program (WIC) should expand, UEP said in two comments on proposed regulations. In one action, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing revisions to the conditions for
- [Washington updates](https://unitedegg.com/washington-updates/) - Senate Agriculture Committee holds hearing on nutrition programs On Feb. 16, the Senate Agriculture Committee held a hearing to discuss nutrition programs as it prepares for the upcoming farm bill. Members of both parties noted the importance of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and child nutrition. Republican members noted USDA updates to the Thrifty
- [Dietary Guidelines cycle kicks off](https://unitedegg.com/dietary-guidelines-cycle-kicks-off/) - The process of revising the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) moved forward as federal agencies appointed a scientific advisory committee that will largely write the guidelines and scheduled the panel’s first meeting. The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) membership was announced on Jan. 19, and the first public DGAC meeting will be held Feb. 9-10.
- [UEP January Committee Briefings and Board Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/uep-january-committee-briefings-and-board-meeting/) - Last week, UEP and UEA members, as well as industry stakeholders gathered for IPPE and the first UEP meetings of 2023. With the 2022 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak surpassing 2015 detections, biosecurity, indemnities and vaccination received considerable attention during meeting briefings. During the general session on Tuesday, the Executive Committee reported on the
- [State of the Union](https://unitedegg.com/state-of-the-union-5/) - UEP was established to bring American egg producers together, lead the industry through complex challenges and advance responsible egg production. In 2022, the egg industry experienced many peaks and valleys – the most notable challenge being HPAI detections surpassing the 2015 outbreak. With a well-equipped staff, consultants, and strong partnerships with other industry organizations, UEP
- [FDA report details production animal antibiotic usage](https://unitedegg.com/fda-report-details-production-animal-antibiotic-usage/) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been working to ensure the judicious use of antibiotics to slow the development of antimicrobial resistance and preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials for fighting disease in animals and humans. Toward these objectives, the FDA issued antimicrobial guidance for use in production animals back in 2013. They also
- [Lawmakers concerned about imitation animal products](https://unitedegg.com/lawmakers-concerned-about-imitation-animal-products/) - Congressional authors of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) 2023 budget told the agency to research consumers’ beliefs about plant-based foods that are marketed with the names of animal products such as eggs. In the explanatory statement accompanying the 2023 appropriation bill that funds FDA, USDA and other agencies, lawmakers said they are “concerned about
- [UEP Releases New Food Safety Videos](https://unitedegg.com/uep-releases-new-food-safety-videos/) - Food safety continues to be a top priority for U.S. Egg Farmers. Many farmers participate in voluntary programs which go above and beyond the Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) Egg Safety Rule. UEP recently release two videos on food safety which highlight the many processes in place on U.S. egg farms to ensure safe, high
- [UEP names VP of animal welfare](https://unitedegg.com/uep-names-vp-of-animal-welfare/) - Atlanta, Ga. (September 5, 2017) – Larry Sadler, Ph.D., has been named to the position of vice president of animal welfare for United Egg Producers (UEP). UEP, which represents more than 90 percent of U.S. egg production, has been a leader in developing and deploying comprehensive, science-based approaches to assure the care of the nation’s
- [Where is SCOTUS going on WOTUS?](https://unitedegg.com/where-is-scotus-going-on-wotus/) - The Supreme Court of the U.S. (SCOTUS) had difficult questions for the plaintiffs and EPA on October 3 during oral arguments on a closely watched case defining what water features are Waters of the United States (WOTUS) subject to federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act (CWA). The breadth of the questions signaled that the justices
- [Election results and committee briefing highlights](https://unitedegg.com/election-results-and-committee-briefing-highlights/) - During the Annual Conference, UEP re-elected its slate of current officers at the Board meeting on October 14: Craig Giroux as chair; Mike West as vice chair; J.T. Dean as treasurer; and Sherman Miller as secretary. J.T. Dean chaired the Animal Welfare Briefing, and Dr. Larry Sadler, VP of animal welfare, provided UEP Certified Program
- [General Session speakers, panelists inspire and educate](https://unitedegg.com/general-session-speakers-panelists-inspire-and-educate/) - Speakers and panelists provided insight into the “Future of Eggs” and more during the AEB UEP Joint General Session at the Annual Meeting. Noted political analyst and Senior Editor of The Cook Political Report, David Wasserman presented his Retail Theory of American Politics and an astute and unique analysis of the November elections. In a
- [AI Lessons Learned Conference](https://unitedegg.com/ai-lessons-learned-conference/) - Poultry producers and industry stakeholders gathered in Atlanta for the Avian Influenza Lessons Learned conference on August 30- 31 in Atlanta, GA. Federal and state officials, affected producers and industry leaders provided data analysis, recommendations, and insights on many HPAI issues. The conference was sponsored by USPOULTRY, USDA, United Egg Producers, National Chicken Council, National
- [Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 signed into law](https://unitedegg.com/inflation-reduction-act-of-2022-signed-into-law/) - On August 16, President Biden signed the $740 billion Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 into law. The bill includes an additional $18 billion for existing Farm Bill conservation programs such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), and Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP). These programs provide
- [Exceptional Lineup of Speakers for Joint Annual Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/exceptional-lineup-of-speakers-for-joint-annual-meeting/) - Dynamic speakers, informative panels, sustainability and cage-free transition updates are on the schedule for the AEB UEP Joint General Session on Wednesday, October 12. Thomas J. Vilsack, USDA Secretary of Agriculture (invited) Thomas J. Vilsack was confirmed as USDA secretary in February of 2021, after serving in the same role for eight years under President
- [Valuable updates at UEP Area Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/valuable-updates-at-uep-area-briefings/) - Over 300 participants attended the UEP Area Briefings held in four virtual sessions on August 23 and 24. Presenters shared valuable information on current and future UEP and industry initiatives. Each briefing started with opening comments by the Area Chairs. President and CEO Chad Gregory noted the significant progress made on UEP’s Strategic Priorities. “Team
- [New UEP Certified training videos now available](https://unitedegg.com/new-uep-certified-training-videos-now-available/) - The new UEP Certified training is available on the UEP Certified portal. Presented in a series of 9 videos, the content was developed by hen caregivers and topic specialists. Segments range from 6 to 17 minutes and total slightly over 90 minutes. UEP’s Vice President of Animal Welfare, Dr. Larry Sadler, recommends caregivers watch one
- [AEB UEP Inaugural Joint Annual Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/aeb-uep-inaugural-joint-annual-meeting/) - SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Monday, Oct. 10 AEB Meetings Tuesday, Oct. 11 AEB Meetings, UEP Executive Board Meeting 2-5p, UEP Organic Committee (2-5 pm tentative)
- [Industry News 7/13/22](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-7-13-22/) - The Egg Industry Center released a technical summary of its report on EPA draft emissions models. A related article, “EIC report questions EPA’s air emissions draft models,” was published in the June 30 United Voices. The Iowa Supreme Court has overturned a nearly 20-year-old legal precedent. In a split ruling, the court found that legislation passed
- [FDA gives guidance on animal feed](https://unitedegg.com/fda-gives-guidance-on-animal-feed/) - The FDA published a final guidance document to help animal food and feed facilities implement hazard analysis and critical control point plans under the Food Safety Modernization Act. The agency said the guidance document will “help animal food facilities develop a food safety plan that complies with FDA’s Hazard Analysis and Risk-Based Preventive Controls requirements.”
- [EIC report questions EPA’s air emissions draft models](https://unitedegg.com/eic-report-questions-epas-air-emissions-draft-models/) - The Egg Industry Center (EIC) recently completed an in-depth evaluation of EPA’s draft models developed to create air emissions factors for layer operations. The models were developed using data collected during the 2007-2010 National Air Emissions Monitoring Study (NAEMS). The EIC’s findings raise questions about the accuracy of those draft models, as they generated widely
- [Retailers, restaurants continue cage-free commitments](https://unitedegg.com/retailers-restaurants-continue-cage-free-commitments/) - With the focus on the upcoming Supreme Court case on Proposition 12, set to be heard on October 11, the industry is reminded many companies have already committed to moving towards cage-free eggs, with continuing announcements of cage-free commitments and recommitments. The activist group Compassion in World Farming released a report tracking 219 companies’ cage-free
- [Future Leaders collaborate, strategize at conference](https://unitedegg.com/future-leaders-collaborate-strategize-at-conference/) - Future leaders from the U.S. egg industry gathered at Fair Oaks Farm in Indiana for the Eighth Annual UEP Future Leaders Conference, June 7 - 9. Presentations, discussions and breakout sessions focused on the PAST / PRESENT / FUTURE theme. Known for its innovative farming, animal welfare and sustainability practices, the farm was an ideal
- [Door opens for possible EPCRA rulemaking for CAFO air emissions reporting exemption](https://unitedegg.com/door-opens-for-possible-epcra-rulemaking-for-cafo-air-emissions-reporting-exemption/) - A letter from EPA to 19 Senators is the latest development in one of the most perplexing developments announced early in the Biden Administration. That decision involved animal operations and EPA’s June 2019 rulemaking under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). Important to egg producers and animal agriculture, the policy was thought to be settled
- [DC consultants provide deep, diverse experience](https://unitedegg.com/ueps-washington-d-c-team/) - Egg farmers, and affiliated vendors and organizations, are represented nationally by professionals from three top-flight firms with deep expertise in animal agriculture and food safety. This team works seamlessly together and has combined experience of over a century in government affairs. Randy Green, Principal, Watson Green Randy Green, a principal at Watson Green, represents UEP
- [Industry News - 5-26-22](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-5-26-22-2/) - “Dealing with HPAI-related compassion fatigue,” provides tips for poultry caretakers, from the University of Minnesota Extension website. Recognizing a need for solutions on a commercial scale, “FFAR offers $6 million for layer hen keel bone research,” from WattPoultry.com. “Gemperle beats sustainability goals, reveals new targets,” and is now 100% cage-free, published in WattPoultry.com. According to
- [Industry News 5/26/22](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-5-26-22/) - “Dealing with HPAI-related compassion fatigue,” provides tips for poultry caretakers, from the University of Minnesota Extension website. Recognizing a need for solutions on a commercial scale, “FFAR offers $6 million for layer hen keel bone research,” from WattPoultry.com. “Gemperle beats sustainability goals, reveals new targets,” and is now 100% cage-free, published in WattPoultry.com. According to
- [Members advocate for egg industry during Legislative Meetings and Hill visits](https://unitedegg.com/members-advocate-for-egg-industry-during-legislative-meetings-and-hill-visits/) - UEP Legislative Meeting attendees heard from ranking members of the U.S. House and Senate Agriculture Committees, visited Senators and members of Congress on the Hill and participated in robust issue discussions during the UEP 2022 Legislative Board and Committee Meetings held May 18-20 in Washington, D.C. First on the agenda was a review of
- [Dietary Guidelines revision kicks off](https://unitedegg.com/dietary-guidelines-revision-kicks-off/) - The federal government began the process of revising the Dietary Guidelines for Americans by releasing a draft set of scientific questions, and public comments will be taken until May 16. UEP will file comments, as will the Egg Nutrition Center. The Dietary Guidelines are the official nutrition advice of the U.S. government, and not only
- [UEP joins other groups; requests SEC extend comment period on rule requiring reporting of climate emissions](https://unitedegg.com/uep-joins-other-groups-requests-sec-extend-comment-period-on-rule-requiring-reporting-of-climate-emissions/) - UEP joined with 117 national and state agricultural groups in a letter asking for a 180-day extension of the comment period on a recent Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proposed rule published in the Federal Register on April 11. The rule requires all publicly traded companies, any company issuing stock for sale in the public U.S.
- [Diverse, knowledgeable speakers at 2022 Legislative Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/diverse-knowledgeable-speakers-at-2022-legislative-meetings/) - Michael S. Regan, EPA Administrator (invited) Michael Regan previously served in several leadership roles as the Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), as Associate Vice President of U.S. Climate and Energy, and as Southeast Regional Director of the Environmental Defense Fund. He was confirmed as the EPA Administrator with the support
- [EPA to implement CAFO inspections in PA pending funding for farmer assistance](https://unitedegg.com/epa-to-implement-cafo-inspections-in-pa-pending-funding-for-farmer-assistance/) - On April 18, US EPA announced a two-stage Clean Water Act inspection plan for Pennsylvania, taking effect in 90 days, to support more aggressive adoption of nutrient loss reduction practices by the state’s farmers in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The apparent reason for the 90-day delay is that state agriculture groups seek increased funding to support
- [Industry News 4/7/22](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-4-7-22/) - The Chair of UEP’s Scientific Advisory Committee, Dr. Janice Swanson, speaking at the 2022 Midwest Poultry Federation (MPF) Convention, addressed issues raised by producers in “The US cage-free transition – what’s unknown,” published by WattPoultry.com. Herbruck’s Poultry Farm released its 2022 Sustainability Report stating, “US Herbruck’s on track to hit 100% cage-free goal by 2024,” from
- [UEP: School breakfasts should have protein](https://unitedegg.com/uep-school-breakfasts-should-have-protein/) - School breakfasts should all offer a protein food, as recommended by the National Academies of Sciences, UEP said in comments filed with the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). FNS is preparing to write new regulations that will set nutrition standards for school lunches, breakfasts and snacks. In its comments, UEP reminded the agency that several
- [UEP Joins in amicus brief for Sackett WOTUS lawsuit](https://unitedegg.com/uep-joins-in-amicus-brief-for-sackett-wotus-lawsuit/) - UEP has joined with 12 other agricultural organizations in a brief to the Supreme Court in the Sackett case involving what are Waters of the US (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act (CWA). That brief is being drafted now for submittal to the Court later this month. The Court is expected to hear oral arguments this
- [Vilsack details nutrition security measures](https://unitedegg.com/vilsack-details-nutrition-security-measures/) - In a speech at Columbia University, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack laid out a vision of nutrition security and the Agriculture Department’s actions to promote the concept. Vilsack contrasted nutrition security to food security, which focuses on the quantity and steady supply of food available to Americans. Nutrition security, according to Vilsack, builds on food
- [National animal welfare law targets swine production](https://unitedegg.com/national-animal-welfare-law-targets-swine-production/) - U.S. Representatives Veronica Escobar (D-TX) and Nancy Mace (R-SC) have introduced an amendment to the Animal Welfare Act prohibiting the extreme confinement of all U.S. pregnant pigs. Many breeding sows are confined to gestation and farrowing stalls for most of their lives. A gestation stall is typically 2 feet x 7 feet and prohibits the
- [Science behind composting HPAI mortality](https://unitedegg.com/science-behind-composting-hpai-mortality/) - The need to depopulate a flock is the most difficult situation a farmer can face but is the best option to protect other healthy birds on the farm, and neighboring farms, from bird flu. Also challenging is the responsible and safe disposal of the euthanized birds. These choices are far more complicated when neighbors voice concerns
- [Quarantine imposed on CA poultry imports](https://unitedegg.com/quarantine-imposed-on-ca-poultry-imports/) - The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has imposed a quarantine on eggs, live poultry, and certain poultry products that originated or passed through an HPAI control area without obtaining an official movement permit. Both the shipper and receiver may be issued a violation upon arrival at the destination. Quarantine: To protect California poultry
- [AEB and UEP crisis communications support](https://unitedegg.com/aeb-and-uep-crisis-communications-support/) - The AEB and UEP Crisis Communications Team is always available to assist our producers and state partners with any media issues, customer inquiries or other questions or concerns related to HPAI. Producers can help protect our industry by: Keep the industry team informed about any emerging issues or concerns on your farm. Tell your marketing
- [UEP advises EPA delay WOTUS rulemaking pending SCOTUS decision](https://unitedegg.com/uep-advises-epa-delay-wotus-rulemaking-pending-scotus-decision/) - UEP called on US EPA to delay further action on its proposed Waters of the US (WOTUS) rulemaking in comments submitted with other agricultural and industry organizations. The proposed rule formally withdraws the Trump-era Navigable Waters Protection Rule and temporarily puts in its place an aggressively modified version of the pre-2015 WOTUS rules and guidance.
- [Escalate and enforce biosecurity](https://unitedegg.com/escalate-and-enforce-biosecurity/) - Biosecurity is the first line of defense to protect hens from HPAI. Now is the time to increase biosecurity to the highest level possible to lower the risk of introducing HPAI to a farm. Reassess your biosecurity plan Have someone who isn’t involved in the day-to-day operation of your farm review your plan, watch biosecurity
- [HPAI and biosecurity dominate discussions at UEP meetings](https://unitedegg.com/hpai-and-biosecurity-dominate-discussions-at-uep-meetings/) - Nearly 200 UEP and UEA members and industry stakeholders gathered in Atlanta for the UEP meetings last week. While the recent highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) detections and recommendations for heightened biosecurity were a focus of discussions in the briefings, other significant accomplishments and issues were also presented. Kathy Bryan, UEP director of communications, Marc
- [Fire Prevention and Mitigation on Farm in the Egg Industry](https://unitedegg.com/fire-prevention-and-mitigation-on-farm-in-the-egg-industry/) - Barn fires are horrific events, threatening both human and hen life and causing significant financial damage. Though the incidence of layer barn fires does not appear to be higher than those in other animal agriculture operations, they account for 94% of the animals lost. In 2021, UEP assembled a task force of professionals to investigate and
- [APHIS HPAI Resources](https://unitedegg.com/aphis-hpai-resources/) - Dr. Fidel Hegngi Presentation "Global HPAI Update & Are We Ready?" Presented at UEP Meetings on January 24. Defend the Flock Resource Center – free resources from USDA and other experts, including growers, veterinarians, state agencies, scientists and industry professionals. Checklists, resource guides, videos and other tools are available in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Tagalog.
- [FDA issues standards for state egg programs](https://unitedegg.com/fda-issues-standards-for-state-egg-programs/) - Federal and state officials announced a new initiative called the Egg Regulatory Program Standards (ERPS) that will give state agencies the ability “to integrate the regulatory activities of partner agencies into an efficient and effective process for improving egg and egg product safety in the U.S.” ERPS does not create any new regulations on the
- [EPA’s “temporary” WOTUS proposed rule: Consider it real](https://unitedegg.com/epas-temporary-wotus-proposed-rule-consider-it-real/) - EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers announced last June three steps to revise Waters of the U.S WOTUS; (1) repeal the Trump Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR), (2) replace it with a “temporary” rule using the WOTUS rules and guidance in effect before the 2015 Obama-era rule was finalized, and 3) issue a new,
- [UEP achievements and noteworthy events in 2021](https://unitedegg.com/uep-achievements-and-noteworthy-events-in-2021/) - Leadership Thankfully, UEP held an in-person Annual Executive Conference in October. More than 300 industry stakeholders attended the informative committee briefings and meetings. UEP elected a new slate of officeholders: Craig Giroux (Chair), Mike West (Vice-Chair), JT Dean (Treasurer) and Sherman Miller (Secretary). UEP held virtual committee and board meetings in January and May and Area Briefings
- [EPA considers restricting rodenticide uses; UEP submitting comments](https://unitedegg.com/epa-considers-restricting-rodenticide-uses-uep-submitting-comments/) - EPA’s Office of Pesticides is reviewing the allowable uses of one of the most important class of pesticides used to control rodent pests, anticoagulant rodenticides. These rodenticides are critically crucial for controlling mice and rats around layer houses to protect egg safety under FDA rules. EPA pesticide reviews are required approximately every five years under
- [UEP Certified reminders, assistance](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-reminders-assistance/) - See below for important UEP Certified reminders and several opportunities for Program Participant administrator guidance. Audit Preferences Audit preferences are due January 31 through the UEP Certified Portal. Please update all Program Participant information, including facilities and houses. Webinar A webinar for Program Participants will be held January 18 at 12 Noon CT. Dr. Larry
- [Guidelines for Autogenous Biologics](https://unitedegg.com/guidelines-for-autogenous-biologics/) - Recently, APHIS added to its website Veterinary Services (VS) Memorandum 800.69: Guidelines for Autogenous Biologics. The VS Memorandum has been revised to address a number of industry and producer concerns. Most notably, it increases the use of disease-causing microbiological isolates from 24 months to 60 months. The other two major areas of revision are related
- [Industry News 11/18/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-11-18-21/) - "New study shows FDA Whole Genome Sequencing network provides nearly $500 million in annual health benefits,” from Food Safety News. “Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. Announces $23.0 Million Capital Project to Expand Cage-Free Production in Florida,” from Yahoo!. With the first eggs in stores in early December, “Sustainable egg farm on Oahu to provide local cage-free eggs,”
- [Califf nominated to head FDA](https://unitedegg.com/califf-nominated-to-head-fda/) - President Joe Biden nominated Dr. Robert Califf as commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, an agency with critical responsibilities for addressing the COVID-19 pandemic as well as regulatory oversight over shell eggs. Califf, an expert on clinical trials with more than 1,200 publications in medical and scientific literature, previously served as FDA commissioner in
- [Election Results and Committee Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/election-results-and-committee-briefings-3/) - During the Annual Conference, UEP elected its new slate of officers at the Board meeting on October 29. The new officers are egg producers Craig Giroux as chairman; Mike West as vice chairman; J.T. Dean as treasurer; and Sherman Miller as secretary. J.T. Dean chaired the Animal Welfare Briefing. Sandra Lausecker, chair of the Organic
- [A view from the jury box](https://unitedegg.com/a-view-from-the-jury-box/) - Foodborne Illness Outbreak Mock Criminal Trial at Annual Meeting Food Industry Counsel LLC attorney and founder Shawn Stevens and attorney Joel Chappelle provided a view inside a criminal trial for the Director of Food Safety for a hypothetical food company. The defendant was charged with 26 misdemeanor counts of violating the Food Drug and Cosmetic
- [Industry News 10/21/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-10-21-21/) - “Global Vulnerability To Emerging Diseases Of Livestock,” discussed the enormous impact of disease on animal health and the food supply from Forbes. UEP President Chad Gregory is featured in “Assuring Future of Egg Industry,” from Agri-Marketing Magazine. Several members of the House Agriculture Committee on livestock issues sent a message to Secretary of Agriculture
- [WOTUS still in play](https://unitedegg.com/wotus-still-in-play/) - On October 13, U.S. EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers announced plans to hold a series of WOTUS roundtables, two in each of five regions across the country. The roundtables will be held in December and possibly early January. The agencies made a broad, public request for “interested parties” to propose slates of up
- [$23,000 needed to reach EGGPAC goal](https://unitedegg.com/23000-needed-to-reach-eggpac-goal/) - By: Rob Knecht, Chair, UEP Government Relations Committee, Glenn Hickman and Tim Schipper, Co-Chairs, UEP Government Affairs Taskforce Thanks to many contributors, the EGGPAC campaign is now at 82% of the goal. Just $23,000 is needed to reach the $125,000 target set for our industry. As we near the end of 2021, it’s an excellent
- [UEP Annual Board Meeting and Executive Conference](https://unitedegg.com/uep-annual-board-meeting-and-executive-conference-2/) - UEP’s Annual Board Meeting and Executive Conference officially begins on Tuesday, October 27, with the Welcome Reception at 6 pm. Below is information to prepare for the meetings and activities. Conference Schedule: Click here for the schedule of meetings and activities, including locations. Hotel Registration: On October 1, hotel confirmations were emailed to all attendees.
- [CDC says foodborne illness fell during pandemic](https://unitedegg.com/cdc-says-foodborne-illness-fell-during-pandemic/) - A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention finds a 26 percent decline in foodborne infections in 2020, compared to the previous three-year average. The report, using FoodNet data, showed that infections from common pathogens dropped sharply. Salmonella incidence dropped 22 percent, while the incidence of Listeria fell 27 percent. According to
- [Opportune speakers at UEP Annual Board Meeting & Executive Conference](https://unitedegg.com/opportune-speakers-at-uep-annual-board-meeting-executive-conference/) - The 2021 Annual Board Meeting & Executive Conference features relevant industry briefings, open discussion about egg production issues, and the opportunity to enjoy beautiful Amelia Island, October 26-29. All rooms have been booked at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, but rooms remain available at the Residence Inn. Click here to register and see the Schedule of
- [Wendy’s sued for allegedly misleading consumers about cage-free eggs](https://unitedegg.com/wendys-sued-for-allegedly-misleading-consumers-about-cage-free-eggs/) - A lawsuit has been filed by an animal activist group claiming that Wendy’s violates the District of Columbia’s general consumer protection law regarding cage-free eggs. A recent D.C. Court of Appeals ruling against Hormel is predicted to increase the number of filings by Animal Activist groups, claiming companies are violating the D.C. Consumer Protection Act.
- [Industry News 9/23/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-9-23-21/) - USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service Office of Policy and Program Development denied the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association’s petition asking the agency to “limit the definition of “meat” and “beef” in “Petition responses point to direction that regulators are going on lab-grown meat labeling,” from Food Safety News. “FDA’s contest winners offer affordable farm-to-fork traceability solutions,” includes
- [Two CWA decisions; more potential problems for CAFOs](https://unitedegg.com/two-cwa-decisions-more-potential-problems-for-cafos/) - Two recent decisions, one by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals and the other by EPA, highlight how the Clean Water Act’s (CWA) regulatory measures for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) are subject to changes. These decisions could cause problems for livestock and poultry operations, including egg producers. On September 16, the 9th Circuit issued a
- [UEP Annual Board Meeting & Executive Conference](https://unitedegg.com/uep-annual-board-meeting-executive-conference-2/) - UEP welcomes all members and industry stakeholders to its 2021 Annual Board Meeting and Executive Conference, October 26-29. All rooms have been booked at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, but rooms remain available at the Residence Inn. Click here to register and see the Schedule of Activities. Contact Kirsten Schutt at kschutt@unitedegg.com for assistance. The conference
- [Industry News 9/9/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-9-9-21/) - A researcher at NRS Poultry Sustainability and Transformation discusses genetic engineering technology in “Can gene editing fix the male layer chick dilemma?” from WattPoultry.com. "Lawsuits Over 'Misleading' Food Labels Surge as Groups Cite Lax U.S. Oversight," was widely circulated on major media outlets, including The New York Times and Yahoo! News. The article describes the
- [UEP Annual Board Meeting & Executive Conference](https://unitedegg.com/uep-annual-board-meeting-executive-conference/) - UEP welcomes all members and industry stakeholders to its 2021 Annual Board Meeting and Executive Conference, October 26-29. All rooms have been booked at the Ritz- Carlton Amelia Island, but rooms remain available at the Residence Inn. Click here to register. Contact Kirsten Schutt at kschutt@unitedegg.com for assistance. The conference schedule is packed with relevant
- [Foodborne illness mock criminal trial](https://unitedegg.com/foodborne-illness-mock-criminal-trial/) - A view from the jury box Prominent food safety attorneys Joel Chappelle and Shawn Stevens from Food Industry Counsel, LLC will facilitate a mock food safety trial at this year’s UEP Annual Meeting. The presentation will take place after the Food Safety Committee Briefing on Wednesday, October 27. Listen to mock federal prosecutors as they
- [EPA Releases Layer Air Emissions Factors "Draft" Report](https://unitedegg.com/epa-releases-layer-air-emissions-factors-draft-report/) - EPA published "Development of Emissions Estimating Methodologies for Egg-laying Houses and Manure Sheds," and a "Fact Sheet" with background information. The data EPA used for this report was collected between 2007 and 2010 under the National Air Emissions Monitoring Study. The draft models rely on data that is readily available to producers. EPA notes that the
- [FSIS requires masking policies in official plants](https://unitedegg.com/fsis-requires-masking-policies-in-official-plants/) - The Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a notice requiring masks be worn in all meat, poultry and egg product plants under the agency’s jurisdiction. Effective August 25, FSIS said plants “must require their employees or contractors to wear masks when IPP [inspection program personnel] are present if the establishment is located in a county
- [Make a positive impact, support EGGPAC](https://unitedegg.com/make-a-positive-impact-support-eggpac/) - By: Rob Knecht, Chair, UEP Government Relations Committee, Glenn Hickman and Tim Schipper, Co-Chairs, UEP Government Affairs Taskforce As food producers, affiliated service providers and industry stakeholders, our job is to manage risk and ensure against threats to our businesses. Our egg farming community consistently faces pressing policy issues and regulatory implications that potentially can
- [Significant updates at UEP Area Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/significant-updates-at-uep-area-briefings/) - More than 300 participants attended the Area Briefings held in four virtual sessions on August 17 and 18. UEP staff presented valuable information on current and future UEP initiatives. Each briefing started with opening comments by the Area Chairs. President and CEO Chad Gregory shared the significant progress made on UEP’s Strategic Priorities. The “Team
- [UEP 2021 Area Briefings Schedule](https://unitedegg.com/uep-2021-area-briefings-schedule/) - Area Date Time Registration Links Areas 4 & 5 Tuesday 8/17 9 am - 11 am ET Areas 4 & 5 Registration Link Area 1 Tuesday 8/17 2 pm - 4 pm ET Area 1 Registration Link Area 3 Wednesday 8/18 9 am - 11 am ET Area 3 Registration Link
- [Industry news 8/12/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-8-12-21/) - Litigation on state “ag-gag” laws continues with “8th Circuit offers mixed win on Iowa ‘ag-gag’ law,” in Reuters and “Arkansas civil action version of Ag-gag struck down by Circuit Court,” Food Safety News. Half of the company’s U.S. workers will need to be vaccinated by November 1 in “Tyson to require all US workers to
- [USDA nominee for Marketing and Regulatory Programs highlights importance of animal health](https://unitedegg.com/usda-nominee-for-marketing-and-regulatory-programs-highlights-importance-of-animal-health/) - On July 15, the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition & Forestry held a hearing for the nomination of Jennifer Moffitt to serve as Under Secretary of Agriculture for Marketing and Regulatory Programs within the USDA. Through this position, those nominated and confirmed supervise operations of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), the Agricultural
- [APHIS announces senior leadership changes](https://unitedegg.com/aphis-announces-senior-leadership-changes/) - Kevin Shea, APHIS administrator, announced senior leadership changes, effective August 1. Dr. Rosemary Sifford is named Veterinary Services (VS) next Deputy Administrator and Chief Veterinary Officer and Dr. Alecia Naugle as VS’ Associate Deputy Administrator. Dr. Burke Healey will assume the role of Executive Director for VS’ Strategy and Policy division, where he will concentrate
- [Reporting avian flu will change…eventually](https://unitedegg.com/reporting-avian-flu-will-changeeventually/) - Revisions to the World Animal Health Organization’s (OIE) chapter on avian influenza will mean fewer low-pathogenic outbreaks will have to be reported. Still, little may change initially because the United States will continue to observe existing requirements in bilateral trade agreements. Under the new rules, all highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) will continue to be reported
- [Extreme ballot initiative proposed in Oregon](https://unitedegg.com/extreme-ballot-initiative-proposed-in-oregon/) - An activist organization, End Animal Cruelty, is proposing a disturbing ballot initiative in Oregon that would effectively end animal agriculture within the state. In its early stages, the required 1,000 signatures have been submitted to draft the ballot title. Commonly called IP-13, the group needs to gather 112,000 signatures for this initiative to appear on
- [Industry news 7/8/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-7-8-21/) - The bipartisan “Landmark Growing Climate Solutions Act clears Senate,” rewards farmers for climate-smart practices, from Feedstuffs. The court was unanimous in its decision against an extreme animal rights ballot measure in “Colorado Supreme Court rules against Initiative 16,” published in Meat+Poultry. Just Egg plant-based egg flavored bites are being recalled in “This plant-based egg-substitute snack might
- [UEP Certified Cage-Free logo now registered](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-cage-free-logo-now-registered/) - The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has issued a Certificate of Registration for the UEP Certified Cage-free logo. Use of the logo with TM should be phased out, and the registered logo should be used on all new cartons. The UEP Certified logo is also registered and should be used. Both registered logos in several
- [Industry News 6/17/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-6-17-21/) - A recent study in Europe and the Americas found the additional information outweighs the cost in “Researchers assess WGS use for foodborne pathogens,” from Food Safety News. Oscar Garrison, UEP's SVP of Food Safety Regulatory Affairs, discusses the hen housing challenges faced by egg farmers in a video interview with Sam Shafer from the Poultry
- [Industry news](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-5/) - The FDA is asking food technology solution providers, public health advocates, entrepreneurs and innovators to develop traceability tools that are scalable and affordable in the announcement: FDA Launches Challenge to Spur Development of Affordable Traceability Tools as Part of Broader Food Safety Efforts. UEP Staff and Consultants have been monitoring a Salmonella Braenderup outbreak in
- [Study claims layer air emissions cause 600 deaths a year](https://unitedegg.com/study-claims-layer-air-emissions-cause-600-deaths-a-year/) - An article published on May 18 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) titled “Air quality-related health damages of food” concluded that air emissions from agricultural operations lead to thousands of U.S. deaths each year, 600 of which could be attributed to layers. Each year, the PNAS publishes more than 3,200 original
- [Industry news 5/20/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-5-20-21/) - “FDA sets plan in motion to resume facility inspections,” from Food Business News. “EPA administrator won’t return to Obama-era WOTUS rule,” covers EPA Administrator Michael Regan’s comments in the House of Representatives from Feedstuffs. Regan promises stakeholder engagement with farmers to determine new waters of the U.S. rule. “Cal-Maine Foods acquires remaining interest in Red
- [UK proposed bill recognizes animals as sentient beings](https://unitedegg.com/uk-proposed-bill-recognizes-animals-as-sentient-beings/) - The government of the United Kingdom (UK) has introduced a bill that formally recognizes animals as sentient beings. The UK has long been a groundbreaker regarding Animal Welfare, being the first nation to implement an animal welfare law in 1822 and enacting several subsequent laws. Currently, UK laws treat animals as property. As described by
- [FDA seeks innovative food traceability tools and opens a dialogue on advancing food safety with technology](https://unitedegg.com/fda-seeks-innovative-food-traceability-tools-and-opens-a-dialogue-on-advancing-food-safety-with-technology/) - By: Frank Yiannas, FDA Deputy Commissioner for Food Policy and Response When the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the New Era of Smarter Food Safety initiative in April 2019 and then released the blueprint in July 2020 outlining our goals, we put both in the context of doing our work differently, leveraging new and emerging technologies
- [Additional speakers weigh in during committee briefings](https://unitedegg.com/additional-speakers-weigh-in-during-committee-briefings/) - Government Relations Chair Rob Knecht opened the Government Relations Briefing, and UEP Washington Consultant Randy Green introduced Chuck Conner, President & CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC). Conner spoke about the Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance (FACA), a first-of-its-kind coalition that brings major agricultural and environmental groups together to advocate for farmer-friendly solutions
- [Diverse, knowledgeable speakers at Legislative Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/diverse-knowledgeable-speakers-at-legislative-meetings-2/) - Janet McCabe, EPA Deputy Administrator, Confirmed Janet McCabe returned to EPA after spending seven years working as Acting Assistant Administrator and Principal Deputy to the Assistant Administrator in the Office of Air and Radiation under President Barack Obama. Before rejoining EPA, Janet McCabe was a Professor of Practice at the Indiana University McKinney School of
- [Industry news 5/6/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-5-6-21/) - Acting FDA Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock reiterated the agency's commitment to food safety in “‘Not on my watch’ says acting FDA commissioner about neglecting food safety,” in a speech to the Alliance for a Stronger FDA from Food Safety News. UEP President Chad Gregory is quoted in “Dozen of eggs may cost you – more,”
- [Senate EPW hearing, EPA budget](https://unitedegg.com/senate-epw-hearing-epa-budget/) - On April 28, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW) held a hearing to discuss the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) discretionary funding request for Fiscal Year 2022. The discussion primarily focused on how the Agency will address water quality, contamination, and pollution issues within communities that already bear a disproportionate burden. Additionally,
- [Climate, carbon credits and layers; bad and good news](https://unitedegg.com/climate-carbon-credits-and-layers-bad-and-good-news/) - Many egg producers hearing talk about farmers being paid big money for carbon credits want to find a way to sell emissions reductions in these markets. Carbon credits are generated by reducing or mitigating their “emissions” of greenhouse gases (GHG). The bad news Most producers manage hens’ manure in ways that do not produce methane,
- [Farm, environmental groups weigh in on carbon](https://unitedegg.com/farm-environmental-groups-weigh-in-on-carbon/) - A coalition of farm and environmental groups said USDA should use a carbon bank to test concepts for carbon markets, encourage carbon-friendly farming practices and ensure farmers benefit from carbon credit trading. The Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance (FACA) released a set of recommendations to USDA that also emphasized the need to maintain current Commodity
- [AMS announces fee increase](https://unitedegg.com/ams-announces-fee-increase/) - On April 20, USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced new fee rates for shell egg grading and certification services, effective October 1 (Fiscal Year 2022). For shell egg grading and certification services, the scheduled rate will increase from $62 to $63 per hour, while the unscheduled rate will remain at $99 per hour. AMS also announced
- [Industry News 4/8/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-4-8-21/) - “House sends ag labor bill to Senate,” to address ongoing ag workforce shortages, from Feedstuffs. In support of the petition filed by the North American Meat Institute, “California’s Prop 12 Supreme Court challenge supported by 20 states,” was published in Feedstuffs. Based on a Humane Society of the United States proposal to incentivize poultry producers
- [UEP weighs in on future USDA purchases](https://unitedegg.com/uep-weighs-in-on-future-usda-purchases/) - The Agriculture Department should step up purchases of eggs and egg products as it reviews and redesigns food procurement programs, UEP said in comments submitted to the department’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). AMS asked for public input on “a food purchase and distribution program intended to provide additional aid to nonprofits serving Americans in need
- [UEP members introduce sustainability plans](https://unitedegg.com/uep-members-introduce-sustainability-plans/) - As UEP moves forward in its work with the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Poultry and Eggs (USRSPE), it is important for egg producers and the egg industry to issue “Sustainability Reports.” Sustainability reporting is an overview of a company’s economic, environmental and social impacts resulting from its everyday activities. This reporting can help organizations measure,
- [Mapping environmental justice](https://unitedegg.com/mapping-environmental-justice/) - An old tool getting a Biden update An Obama-era EPA mapping tool called EJScreen is being updated and improved for use in support of the Biden’s Administration’s environmental justice objectives. Initially, the mapping tool helped the agency and the public link up certain natural features, population centers, community and business facilities, and associate them with
- [UEP Certified 2021 Calendar](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-2021-calendar/) - *Program Participant information in the portal to update: Add any new production facilities Add any new layer houses Deactivate any layer houses that will not be used in 2021 Deactivate any production facilities that will not be used in 2021 Update any houses from cage to cage-free, if applicable Update your audit preferences (e.g., AH
- [United Egg Producers Updated Statement on Male Chicks](https://unitedegg.com/united-egg-producers-updated-statement-on-male-chicks-2/) - Atlanta, Georgia, March 25, 2021: The below statement can be attributed in its entirety to Chad Gregory, President and CEO, United Egg Producers: “As representatives of about 90 percent of egg production in the United States, United Egg Producers (UEP) and our farmer-members remain fully committed to identifying and implementing practices that improve the welfare
- [Industry News 3/18/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-3-18-21/) - The importance of industry leadership and UEP's proactive effort to establish a uniform cage-free standard are mentioned in "Rabobank: California's Prop 12 a call to lead on animal welfare," from MEAT+POULTRY. Senate confirmation is not required as "Pew's Sandra Eskin named as USDA's Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety," from Food Safety News. Eskin previously served
- [Maryland court: emissions are subject to CAFO permitting](https://unitedegg.com/maryland-court-emissions-are-subject-to-cafo-permitting/) - Last week, a state trial court found that the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) should be using the federal Clean Water Act (CWA) concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) permitting program to regulate gaseous ammonia emissions from animal operations. At issue was the environmentalists’ claim that the MDE failed to properly follow federal law by
- [Victory for the egg industry](https://unitedegg.com/victory-for-the-egg-industry/) - On March 15, the Third Circuit handed a hard-fought and well-deserved victory to the egg industry, affirming a 2019 jury finding of no conspiracy among egg industry participants to reduce the supply of eggs. This was the second defense win in the same series of cases that the court has upheld on appeal. More than
- [Industry News 3/4/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-3-4-21/) - Tom Vilsack, the new U.S. secretary of agriculture, is quoted in “Vilsack promises timely review of CFAP,” and “Vilsack pushes for new farm income streams,” from Feedstuffs. Avian flu continues to spread in poultry flocks overseas as reported in “Europe registers more than 1,000 avian flu outbreaks,” and “Avian flu impacts poultry farming in four
- [Talking vaccines: Best practices for communications](https://unitedegg.com/talking-vaccines-best-practices-for-communications/) - President Biden this week announced that enough COVID-19 vaccines will be available for all U.S. adults by the end of May. The FDA approvals, varied distribution protocols by state and rollout of the coronavirus vaccine bring with them a fresh set of challenges for employer-employee communications. While some states have prioritized food and agriculture workers
- [UEP: FDA rule needs simplification, clarity](https://unitedegg.com/uep-fda-rule-needs-simplification-clarity/) - A proposed rule to expand traceability requirements for high-risk foods is unnecessarily complex and should be rewritten, UEP said in comments filed with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). UEP said the regulation “is unnecessarily complex” and will generate information that is “superfluous and not easily used by the recipients.” Especially for small farms, the
- [Industry news 2/18/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-2-18-21/) - Frank Yiannis, Deputy Commissioner for Food Policy Response, discusses blockchain and other emerging technologies in “FDA: Future of food safety traceability is digital” from WattPoultry.com. “Experts examine reasons for different Salmonella results” between farmers’ and authorities’ tests from Food Safety News. ”Shift to cage-free egg production prompts need to revise health and management plans” provides the
- [Cybersecurity growing concern for ag sector](https://unitedegg.com/cybersecurity-growing-concern-for-ag-sector/) - Cybersecurity has been a concern for commercial industries for some time. In the agricultural sector, advancements in technology and the ‘internet of things’ have increased exposures beyond office computer systems to other equipment used in the operations connected to the web. Further, cyber-attacks have risen with the increase in remote work due to COVID-19. Cyber-attacks come in
- [Gov Affairs Taskforce recommends sustained EGGPAC focus](https://unitedegg.com/gov-affairs-taskforce-recommends-sustained-eggpac-focus/) - EGGPAC champions to serve as advocates in UEP and UEA member companies The Government Affairs Taskforce has created several recommendations to improve EGGPAC, emphasizing a year-round focus on the program. One of its priorities is establishing an EGGPAC champion for each UEP and UEA member company. Each company’s EGGPAC champion will communicate the purpose and
- [Biden's climate executive order - what does it mean for egg producers?](https://unitedegg.com/bidens-climate-executive-order-what-does-it-mean-for-egg-producers/) - Egg producers have a small climate footprint, which has decreased in the last several decades though egg production has increased. The feed used to raise birds and produce eggs is the single largest contributor to eggs’ climate footprint. Lower hen and pullet mortality and greater feed use efficiencies have substantially reduced eggs’ greenhouse gas emissions
- [Groups Petition FSIS for new Salmonella standards](https://unitedegg.com/groups-petition-fsis-for-new-salmonella-standards/) - Consumers groups have petitioned USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to establish enforceable standards targeting Salmonella and Campylobacter in poultry. The petitioners include the Center for Science in the Public Interest, Consumer Federation of America, Consumer Reports and Stop Foodborne Illness. In the petition, the group asks FSIS to issue a regulation under 21
- [APHIS hosts webinar on HPAI, wild bird surveillance](https://unitedegg.com/aphis-hosts-webinar-on-hpai-wild-bird-surveillance/) - USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) leadership and poultry experts hosted a virtual webinar on February 2 to discuss the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Europe and East Asia. The agency also provided an update on the U.S. wild bird surveillance program and information on poultry biosecurity audits under the National
- [UEP January meetings informative, well attended](https://unitedegg.com/uep-january-meetings-informative-well-attended/) - The virtual UEP January Committee Briefings had over 300 participants, reflecting strong interest in industry activities and issues Board Chair Tom Hertzfeld, Jr., opened the meeting, and President and CEO Chad Gregory presented the significant work completed on UEP’s 2020-2025 Strategic Priorities. The Market Transparency Task Force has met multiple times, reviewing best practices. Under
- [UEP Certified Updates](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-updates-2/) - Based on the recommendations of the Animal Welfare Committee, the UEP Board voted to update the UEP Certified Procedures in two areas impacting the cage-free standards. Space under tiers: UEP procedures will be updated to align with American Humane’s standards. The space under the tiers standard will be adjusted from 19.2” to 17.6”. Additionally, an
- [State of the Union](https://unitedegg.com/state-of-the-union-4/) - By Chad Gregory, President and CEO UEP was created to unite egg producers and lead the industry through complex challenges and catastrophic events. 2020 tested our mission to the core. Thankfully, UEP has dedicated leaders with a strong board of directors and resilient committees, the finest staff and consultants in all of agriculture, strong partnerships
- [UEP praises Sec. 32 buys, concerned over food box program](https://unitedegg.com/uep-praises-sec-32-buys-concerned-over-food-box-program/) - UEP welcomed the USDA’s intention to purchase $20 million of eggs and egg products under “Section 32” surplus disposal authority but expressed concern over an issue that has marred the fifth round of food box purchases. USDA has substantially increased its purchases from the egg industry in the wake of the pandemic, buying about twice
- [Animal Activist Group Sues MA Attorney General](https://unitedegg.com/animal-activist-group-sues-ma-attorney-general/) - In 2006, Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot initiative that requires 1.5 square feet per hen of floor space, regardless of the housing system. The law also impacts space requirements for veal calves and breeding pigs. Other states have since passed laws that adhere to the UEP Certified standards, which require 1.0 (vs. 1.5) square
- [3rd activist group tracks cage-free, pressures companies](https://unitedegg.com/3rd-activist-group-tracks-cage-free-pressures-companies/) - The Humane League has issued a “Cage-Free Eggpose” calling out companies that have made cage-free commitments but are either not reporting on progress, have passed the deadline, or have removed commitments from public statements. The Humane League cites nine companies for failing to fulfill their commitments: Omni Hotels and Resorts, Einstein Bros, Fogo de Chão
- [Biden Nominates Michael Regan as EPA Administrator](https://unitedegg.com/biden-nominates-michael-regan-as-epa-administrator/) - President Joe Biden has nominated Michael Regan as the next administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). He is currently the Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NC-DEQ). Regan’s confirmation hearing has not been scheduled by the Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works. Still, several agricultural groups issued statements welcoming
- [Industry News 1/7/21](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-1-7-21/) - “Egg producers show adaptability in the pandemic, look toward the future,” by UEP President and CEO Chad Gregory was published in Poultry Times. Acquired by Hillandale Gettysburg LP, “Sperry Farms sold for $5.1 million” was published in the Meadville Tribune. In another loss “Court will not rehear Prop 12 challenge from Meat Institute,” from Farm
- [HPAI spreading overseas](https://unitedegg.com/hpai-spreading-overseas/) - HPAI is spreading across Europe, Japan, South Korea, and China at an alarming rate and affecting large numbers of poultry operations. South Korea has culled more than 10 million birds to bring the infection under control, a new variant has been detected in Europe, and the disease has impacted the largest Japanese poultry flock yet.
- [Egg producers show adaptability in the pandemic, look toward the future](https://unitedegg.com/egg-producers-show-adaptability-in-the-pandemic-look-toward-the-future/) - Published by Poultry Times, JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — While the COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating and global impacts in 2020, the tremendous resiliency of the U.S. agriculture community — and the significance of the critical role we play — has never been more apparent. Our ability to adapt and be forward-thinking during this unimaginable “omni-crisis”
- [Industry news 12/10/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-12-10-20/) - “US egg carton shortage to extend through holidays,” was published in WattAg. Poultry World published “Costco to ban the use of cages in its global supply chain.” The article states Costco is the first US retailer to issue a global policy, but it has not announced a completion date. This blog from HumaneWatch.org provides
- [UEP mourns Gene Gregory](https://unitedegg.com/uep-mourns-gene-gregory-2/) - With great sadness, United Egg Producers (UEP) announces the death of Gene Gregory, former President and CEO. Gregory was a leader in the egg industry for over 50 years and will be greatly missed. He began his career in the 1950s, working for Corn Belt Hatcheries in Gibson City, IL. Serving in various roles with
- [Industry news 11/19/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-11-19-20/) - After UEP and other farm and food industry groups requested more time for comments, “FDA Signals that it Intends to Extend Comment Period for the Food Traceability Information Collection Provisions.” Food groups strongly support essential workers be among the first groups vaccinated in “Industry seeks COVID-19 vaccination priority for food, ag workers,” from Feedstuffs. “American
- [Climate change will be a top initiative in 2021](https://unitedegg.com/climate-change-will-be-a-top-initiative-in-2021/) - The “Climate Change” policy field has suddenly become very crowded and very visible, and agriculture is actively contributing to the discussions. President-Elect Biden made climate change efforts a major pillar of his campaign and promised to take action on day one of his Administration. Last week the Climate 21 Project, a team of 150 Obama-era
- [LPAI found in Missouri and HPAI on the rise across Europe](https://unitedegg.com/lpai-found-in-missouri-and-hpai-on-the-rise-across-europe/) - USDA confirmed on November 7 the presence of H5 low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) in a backyard duck layer flock in Webster County, MO. Control measures and surveillance have been put in place, and the World Organization for Animal Health has been notified as it is a reportable LPAI. Fall has brought on the emergence of
- [UEP Certified 2021 deadlines](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-2021-deadlines/) - *Program Participant information in the portal to update: Add any new production facilities Add any new layer houses Deactivate any layer houses that will not be used in 2021 Deactivate any production facilities that will not be used in 2021 Update any houses from cage to cage-free, if applicable Update your audit preferences (e.g., AH
- [Industry News 11/5/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-11-5-20/) - The Agricultural Marketing Service has issued a solicitation for the procurement of shell eggs and all-purpose egg mix. Click here for the USDA Commodity Procurement website. "Billions paid to farmers in coronavirus assistance," was published in Feedstuffs. One hundred eleven members of the House signed onto a letter calling on the Administration to protect food terms in
- [CIWF releases Annual Egg Track Report](https://unitedegg.com/ciwf-releases-annual-egg-track-report/) - This year, Compassion in World Farming (CIWF) focused on the progress made by several companies in meeting their cage-free commitments when releasing its 2020 Egg Track report. As stated in the CIWF press release, “Despite the challenges presented by COVID-19, some of the biggest names in food – including Subway, Target, General Mills, and more
- [Committee Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/committee-briefings/) - J.T. Dean chaired the Animal Welfare Briefing, and Dr. Larry Sadler, VP of animal welfare, updated the committee on the UEP Certified program. Sadler presented recommendations from the Audit Subcommittee for changes to the UEP Certified Cage-Free guidelines, which were approved by the Board. See UEP Certified Updates. The Board also approved committee recommendations for
- [UEP Animal Welfare Priorities](https://unitedegg.com/uep-animal-welfare-priorities/) - Hen welfare is critical to the egg industry and a cornerstone of UEP. Animal welfare is a broad topic, and focus is needed to ensure UEP moves forward and provides relevant support for its producer members. After holding several meetings and receiving broad input from other UEP members, the Animal Welfare Priorities Subcommittee identified the
- [UEP Certified Updates](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-updates/) - Based on the recommendations of the Animal Welfare Committee, the UEP Board voted to update the UEP Certified Procedures in two areas impacting the cage-free standards. Space under tiers: UEP procedures will be updated to align with American Humane’s standards. The space under the tiers standard will be adjusted from 19.2” to 17.6”. Additionally, an
- [Industry News 10/22/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-10-22-20/) - There is a new respect for farmers as explained in “Ride the wave: Why time is right for farmer image,” by UEP PR Consultant Hinda Mitchell and published in Feedstuffs. “COVID-19 pandemic increases consumer support for farmers,” from Feedstuffs provides the findings of a Cargill survey showing nearly one-third of consumers in the U.S., Brazil,
- [IPPE 2021 in-person events canceled](https://unitedegg.com/ippe-2021-in-person-events-canceled/) - The International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) continues to evolve to meet the needs of its attendees and exhibitors. The health and safety of all IPPE participants is paramount. After thoughtful and thorough consideration, show management for the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) has made the difficult decision to not hold the in-person component
- [Industry News](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-4/) - “Weaver Eggs, Rose Acre Farms purchase Opal Foods,” from WattAg; Opal Foods will remain an independent company. “APHIS is making changes to national poultry plan,” describes the changes, effective November 4, that were approved by representatives from across the poultry industry at the 2018 NPIP Biennial Conference, from Food Safety News. The USDA moves to
- [$2.8 Million Fine Levied Against Horse Racing Facility](https://unitedegg.com/2-8-million-fine-levied-against-horse-racing-facility/) - EPA reached an agreement this week with the owners of a New Orleans horse racing facility to settle claims that it violated the Clean Water Act (CWA) by discharging animal wastes and process wastewater into an area canal that flows into Lake Pontchartrain. Churchill Downs Louisiana Horseracing Company, the track, technically considered a Concentrated Animal
- [FDA to hold virtual meeting on traceability rule proposal](https://unitedegg.com/fda-to-hold-virtual-meeting-on-traceability-rule-proposal/) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will be holding a series of three virtual one-day public meetings to discuss the recently released proposed rule “Requirements for Additional Traceability Records for Certain Foods.” The purpose of the public meetings is to discuss the proposed rule issued under the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act. These public
- [Industry news 9/24/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-9-24-20/) - “Experts affirm that coronavirus is ‘highly unlikely’ to be food risk,” from Food Safety News. Farming and agriculture were already among the top-rated industries before 2020, but have now moved to No. 1 with a 69% positive rating according to Gallup's annual analysis of U.S. business sectors in “Consumers Give Food, Grocery Industries Top Scores,” published
- [EPA agriculture advisory committee](https://unitedegg.com/epa-agriculture-advisory-committee/) - EPA recently reestablished the Farm, Ranch and Rural Communities Committee (FRRCC), a federal advisory body that provides counsel and advice to the EPA Administrator on agricultural and rural matters. The FRRCC has 30 members from a wide range of agricultural backgrounds and held its first meeting two weeks ago, which, like all federal advisory committee
- [Food Safety Advisory Council holds virtual meeting](https://unitedegg.com/food-safety-advisory-council-holds-virtual-meeting/) - The UEP Food Safety Advisory Council (FSAC) held a virtual meeting on September 17, with 18 of the 20 council members in attendance. The producer members shared concerns that “keep them up at night” and their perspective on industry needs. This initial meeting focused on Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), emerging strains of Salmonella, consumer education,
- [FDA proposed traceability rule includes shell eggs](https://unitedegg.com/fda-proposed-traceability-rule-includes-shell-eggs/) - On September 21, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a proposed rule to establish additional traceability recordkeeping requirements for certain foods. The FDA also published a draft “Food Traceability List,” which describes the foods that would be subject to the proposed requirements. The list includes leafy greens, fresh-cut fruits and vegetables, some types of
- [EGGPAC update](https://unitedegg.com/eggpac-update/) - EGGPAC contributions total $52,233 which is 42% of the goal. Thank you to all who have contributed. EGGPAC plays a critical role in enhancing the Government Relations team’s efforts in Washington, D.C. By participating, you will have a role in determining the future prosperity of the egg industry. Whether you’re a UEP member, UEA Further
- [UEP develops new Food Safety Advisory Council](https://unitedegg.com/uep-develops-new-food-safety-advisory-council/) - Council is made up of 20 individuals who will focus on assuring the safety and quality of eggs produced in the US By Deven King, Watt Ag Egg Industry News, September 2020 Food safety is and will continue to be a critical part of the nation's egg supply. The United Egg Producers (UEP) is working
- [Protect your farm against cyber attacks](https://unitedegg.com/protect-your-farm-against-cyber-attacks/) - Security measures often focus on in-person property access, such as visitor logs, hiring practices, and keeping areas of the farm locked and secure. Cybersecurity is just as critical. Cyber-attacks are being carried out by animal activists and other groups that seek to expose, embarrass, or exploit farms and other organizations. Potential tactics include stealing data,
- [UEP Area Briefings look to the future](https://unitedegg.com/uep-area-briefings-look-to-the-future/) - There was record attendance at the four Area Briefings held on August 18-19 with the virtual format allowing more members and industry stakeholders to participate. UEP staff presented valuable information on current and future UEP initiatives. UEP President and CEO Chad Gregory unveiled UEP’s Strategic Priorities for the next five years. “Every organization needs a
- [Industry news 8/27/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-8-27-20/) - California has lost a legal battle, with the court saying a vegan product can call itself “butter”, even though butter has a standard of identity requiring it to consist of at least 80% milkfat in “‘This is a huge victory...’ Judge rules in Miyoko plant-based butter case,” from Food Navigator. The Animal Welfare Institute and
- [Structures, Separation, and Safety for Layer Farms](https://unitedegg.com/structures-separation-and-safety-for-layer-farms/) - Given the continued push toward cage-free production, more and more egg producers are challenged to renovate existing structures or build new cage-free facilities. Spatial separation between buildings is more important than ever. In the past, 50 feet had been the standard separation, but as noted in past newsletter articles, 50 feet is no longer enough
- [2020 Area Briefings Registration Information](https://unitedegg.com/2020-area-briefings-registration-information/) - 2020 Area Briefing Schedule Area Date Time Registration Link Areas 4 & 5 Tuesday 8/18/2020 9 am - 11 am ET Areas 4 & 5 Registration Link Area 1 Tuesday 8/18/2020 2 pm - 4 pm ET Area 1 Registration Link Area 3 Wednesday 8/19/2020 9 am - 11 am ET
- [Industry News 8/6/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-8-6-20/) - UEP President Chad Gregory’s address at the 2020 Poultry Science Association Virtual Annual Meeting is covered in “Cage-free transition financially and logistically impossible,” from WattAG. “Vital Farms’ Blockbuster IPO Proves Wall Street Has An Appetite For Sustainable Farming,” from Forbes. The source of a Salmonella outbreak across several states is identified in “Thomson recalls all
- [Make a difference in Washington, D.C.](https://unitedegg.com/make-a-difference-in-washington-d-c/) - EGGPAC, the political action committee of the egg and egg products industry, facilitates access to elected officials and agencies that are vital to the success of egg production. UEP members, UEA Further Processor members, UEA Allied members, state egg associations, and UEP valued partners all benefit from EGGPAC. By pooling resources, the industry can have
- [Industry News 7/23/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-7-23-20/) - Microsoft announced plans to address the need for high-speed internet in rural areas and develop databased tools for farmers in “Land O’Lakes and Microsoft form strategic alliance to pioneer new innovations in agriculture and support rural communities.” A federal judge awards $176,000 in attorney fees in “Judge: Kansas must pay groups who challenged 'Ag-Gag' law.”
- [COVID-19 Legislation Update](https://unitedegg.com/covid-19-legislation-update/) - The Senate majority could release COVID-19 draft legislation this week, though early next week may be more likely. When the text is published, it will be the product of a majority-only exercise as bipartisan negotiations have not begun. House leadership has told its members to prepare to vote the first week of August, so the
- [Dietary Guidelines report has good news for eggs](https://unitedegg.com/dietary-guidelines-report-has-good-news-for-eggs/) - The 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s Scientific Report as submitted to USDA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends eggs as a first food for infants and toddlers. It places new emphasis on choline, a nutrient that is lacking in most people’s diets. Eggs are an excellent source of choline. Early introduction
- [Industry news 7/9/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-7-9-20/) - “The Difference Between Eggs In The U.S. And The Rest Of The World,” was first published in HuffPost and then featured in MSN and in other publications. The AEB and UEP communication teams have provided the reporter with accurate information on egg nutrition with a request to update the story. Sam Krouse from MPS Egg
- [Industry news 6/25/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-6-25-20/) - A U.S. District Court judge has ruled the state’s Property Protection Act unconstitutional in “North Carolina’s Property Protection Act violates 1st Amendment,” from Food Safety News. Ken Anderson, a professor at the Prestage Department of Poultry Science at North Carolina State, is interviewed in “Laying hen research critical to bird success in housing systems,” from
- [Diligence needed in continuing EPCRA legal fight](https://unitedegg.com/diligence-needed-in-continuing-epcra-legal-fight/) - Environmental legal challenges continue regarding the current exclusion of ag operations from the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) reporting requirements. The exclusion eliminates the need for egg and animal feeding operations to report ammonia emissions to state or local emergency response authorities. Legislation passed in 2018 excluded these emissions from the Comprehensive Environmental
- [UEA reiterates opposition to unrefrigerated hatchery surplus eggs](https://unitedegg.com/uea-reiterates-opposition-to-unrefrigerated-hatchery-surplus-eggs/) - In letters to top officials at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Further Processors Division of the United Egg Association (UEA) repeated its opposition to proposals from the broiler industry that would permit unrefrigerated hatchery surplus eggs to enter the food chain through egg processing plants. FDA and
- [Animal activists release farm database](https://unitedegg.com/animal-activists-release-farm-database/) - The recent announcement that animal rights extremists had created a comprehensive online database of livestock and poultry farm locations, called Project Counterglow, renewed concerns about activism among many in the animal agriculture community. While awareness of the site is important, it's important to know that this tactic itself is not "new," and there is no
- [Industry news 6/11/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-6-11-20/) - "USDA asked to provide egg producers with CFAP funds," was published in Feedstuffs. Proterra Partners, a private equity group based in Minneapolis, MN acquired ownership in "Western Milling, Opal Foods sell stake in Central Valley Eggs," from WattAg. "Pilgrim's Pride CEO and other chicken industry executives indicted for price fixing," by CNBC. The National
- [California declared free of vND](https://unitedegg.com/california-declared-free-of-vnd/) - After more than two years of work by USDA and the California Department of Food and Agriculture, the quarantine in Southern California due to VirulentNewcastle Disease (vND) has been lifted. Even with extensive testing taking place, USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has not confirmed any new cases since February 1. To guard
- [Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act](https://unitedegg.com/paycheck-protection-program-flexibility-act/) - Last week, after the Senate passed by Unanimous Consent H.R. 7010, President Trump signed the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020. The PPP Flexibility Act will provide farms and businesses more flexibility in how and when they can spend their Paycheck Protection Program loans and still get them forgiven. For those whose PPP loan
- [Dietary guidelines committee posts draft conclusions](https://unitedegg.com/dietary-guidelines-committee-posts-draft-conclusions/) - In preparation for its final meeting, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee has posted its draft scientific conclusions, including several on dietary cholesterol. For the most part, the statements are consistent with the previous scientific report in 2015, which led to the elimination of the longstanding recommendation to limit dietary cholesterol to 300 milligrams per day.
- [New EPA Guidance on depopulation due to COVID-19](https://unitedegg.com/new-epa-guidance-on-depopulation-due-to-covid-19/) - EPA issued new guidance on June 9 for producers handling and disposing of animals euthanized due to the severe market disruptions caused by Covid-19. EPA and other federal agencies provide standard guidance on how to safely handle animal mortalities, but the applicable circumstances generally involve animal disease outbreaks or a localized natural disaster. Many producers typically
- [DxE undercover activity](https://unitedegg.com/dxe-undercover-activity/) - The creators of Project Counterglow are affiliated with Direct Action Everywhere (DxE), and this group continues to capitalize on producer actions necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently DxE placed cameras in a hog operation capturing the depopulation technique of ventilation shutdown. The producer was aware DxE was working the area and was on alert, even
- [UEP Certified audit update](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-audit-update/) - The Desk Audit Subcommittee met earlier this month to discuss audits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the importance of safety for both farm personnel and auditors, and the increased demands placed on egg producers, the committee determined that desk audits will be conducted for the remainder of this year. The Board supported this decision during
- [Industry News 5/21/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-5-21-20/) - Michael Foods will be the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of JUST plant-based egg products to restaurants and other foodservice channels as reported in “JUST, Michael Foods Partner To Put Plant-Based Eggs On More Foodservice Menus,” from Forbes. “How US, UK egg producers are beating COVID-19 disruptions,” covers presentations by Greg Hinton from Rose Acres and
- [HEROES Act passes in House](https://unitedegg.com/heroes-act-passes-in-house/) - Last week, the House voted 208-199 to pass the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions Act (HEROES Act), with 14 Democrats voting against and one Republican (Rep. Peter King) voting for the bill. The $3 trillion bill vote was along party lines, and it’s not clear what the path is for bipartisan agreement. There are
- [Cause of fires in animal farming](https://unitedegg.com/cause-of-fires-in-animal-farming/) - It’s no secret that there have been quite a few losses in the egg and greater animal farming industry over the last 12-16 months – most being fire losses. This development has made a very tough property insurance market even more challenging for egg producers. Below is a list of possible causes of fires, both
- [Industry news 5/7/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-5-7-20/) - Clemson University Livestock Poultry Health (LPH) has released the control area surrounding a commercial turkey farm in “South Carolina avian influenza control zone released,” from WattAg. “Fire causes loss of 280,000 Gemperle Farms hens,” from WattAg. The company, formerly known as Midwest Poultry Services expands to Texas in “MPS Egg Farms purchases Feather Crest Farms,” from
- [Additional COVID-19 legislation expected in late May](https://unitedegg.com/additional-covid-19-legislation-expected-in-late-may/) - The next COVID-19 supplemental is expected to be released by the House as early as this week. Speaker Pelosi indicated that she would like the House to vote on the bill by May 15, but the Senate is not likely to move swiftly and final passage isn't anticipated until late May or early June. While it
- [COVID-19 will change consumers’ purchasing habits](https://unitedegg.com/covid-19-will-change-consumers-purchasing-habits/) - A recent survey of 1,800 U.S. consumers by Inspire PR Group, in partnership with Illuminology, gathered information on Americans’ food purchasing habits before, during and after COVID-19 restrictions. The Eating 2020: How COVID-19 Will Change Consumer Engagement With Food report indicates that health and safety will remain a top concern for grocery shoppers and diners
- [Industry news 4/23/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-3/) - There were no employee or first responder injuries but hens were lost in “Versova’s Trillium Farms of Ohio experiences massive fire,” from WattAg. “Employee at Michigan’s largest egg producer tests positive for coronavirus,” from mLive. An IFIC study finds 77% of consumers are confident in producers’ ability to supply enough food “People remain confident in
- [Agriculture represents less than 10% of U.S. GHG emissions](https://unitedegg.com/agriculture-represents-less-than-10-of-u-s-ghg-emissions/) - Earlier this month, EPA announced the latest U.S. Inventory of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, which includes emissions data through 2018. American Farm Bureau Federation’s analysis of the report found across the U.S. livestock and poultry sectors, consistent evidence of increasing efficiencies leading to better greenhouse gas (GHG) performance. Overall, agriculture was found to account for less
- [Risk management questions to ask today](https://unitedegg.com/risk-management-questions-to-ask-today/) - The pandemic proves that small things can cause big problems. It also demonstrates that it’s nearly impossible to predict where issues might arise. A tiny virus from halfway around the globe that seemed so far off and irrelevant is now creating devastating impacts here in the states. Questions like these wouldn’t have been dreamt of
- [UEP seeks additional clarity from states on bulk egg sales](https://unitedegg.com/uep-seeks-additional-clarity-from-states-on-bulk-egg-sales/) - On April 3, FDA provided flexibility to sell eggs at retail in cartons or flats without labels under certain conditions, facilitating the sale of eggs originally intended for restaurants. This flexibility also aids the continued sale of eggs in retail channels as carton availability across the country continues to decline. Even with the flexibility provided
- [Industry News 4/9/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-4-9-20/) - “U.S. poultry industry fulfilling its role as ‘essential’ during crisis,” quotes UEP CEO Chad Gregory and the leaders of other poultry organizations from Poultry Times. USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service extended the comment period to May 22 in “Comments on Salmonella as adulterant petition will be accepted for 60 more days,” from Food Safety
- [UEP responds to COVID-19 issues](https://unitedegg.com/uep-responds-to-covid-19-issues/) - UEP staff and consultants continue to work with members, regulatory officials and industry stakeholders to keep a safe and nutritious supply of eggs flowing to consumers. UEP appreciates FDA’s and USDA’s work and commends the personnel at these agencies for the time and effort they devoted to assuring consumers access to a safe, healthy, nutritious,
- [Federal Court rejects claims involving swine manure](https://unitedegg.com/federal-court-rejects-claims-involving-swine-manure/) - On March 27, Northern District of Iowa Federal District Court found in favor of an Iowa pork producer and against one of the farm’s neighbors. The neighbor sued the producer in 2018, alleging that the producer had been misapplying hog manure under the Clean Water Act (CWA) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
- [DxE exploits COVID-19](https://unitedegg.com/dxe-exploits-covid-19/) - Even during this national emergency, Direct Action Everywhere (DxE) is planning on trespassing on farms as part of its “Cancel Animal Ag” campaign. The campaign consists of two components. The first and most alarming tactic is a publicly announced effort encouraging activists to trespass on farms and shoot video. A DxE campaign video shows an
- [CARES Act](https://unitedegg.com/cares-act/) - President Trump recently signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The $2 trillion coronavirus relief package provides financial support for the nation’s families and working people, stabilizes the economy, provides relief for small business, supports hospitals and schools, and protects jobs. For agriculture, the bill provides $9.5 billion to support
- [FDA issues guidance for labeling and further processors](https://unitedegg.com/fda-issues-guidance-for-labeling-and-further-processors/) - UEP staff and consultants have been in constant communication with the FDA, petitioning it to take actions to increase the supply of eggs at retail. As a result, FDA issued the following guidance: Packaging and labeling On April 3, FDA released the guidance document, Temporary Policy Regarding Packaging and Labeling of Shell Eggs Sold by
- [Bulk egg sales](https://unitedegg.com/bulk-egg-sales/) - The question of bulk egg sales on flats at retail has been a topic of conversation due to the fear of a potential carton shortage. Unfortunately, due to state egg laws and regulations, each state’s requirements may be different. UEP encourages members to reach out to their state associations, farm bureaus, legal counsel and state regulatory
- [UEP asks EPA to halt non-emergency compliance or enforcement visits to farms](https://unitedegg.com/uep-asks-epa-to-halt-non-emergency-compliance-or-enforcement-visits-to-farms/) - Last week UEP requested the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) halt all non-emergency compliance or enforcement visits to farms during the COVID-19 pandemic. The letter to the EPA was signed by six other animal agriculture organizations and the American Farm Bureau Federation. The reason for this action was to help halt the spread of the virus to
- [Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act](https://unitedegg.com/coronavirus-aid-relief-and-economic-security-cares-act/) - After several long days of negotiating, the Senate late last night reached final agreement on COVID Phase III stimulus legislation expected to be in the range of approximately $2 trillion over 10 years. Further modifications are not expected at this time, but as always and especially on something this broad, usual caveats and caution are
- [Egg producer contingency planning guidance](https://unitedegg.com/egg-producer-contingency-planning-guidance/) - During these unprecedented times, employees in food production should know you are there for them. Food and agriculture workers are considered essential employees and are permitted to work, even under state or federal shelter-in-place orders. However, the well-being and safety of your employees should be the top priority as we all continue to work through
- [Registration open for 2020 Legislative Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/registration-open-for-2020-legislative-meetings/) - Registration is open for UEP’s Annual Legislative Meetings, May 20 - May 22, at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C. As you know, the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation is rapidly evolving. It is important for you to know the UEP staff is closely monitoring this matter. We are cautiously proceeding with plans for this
- [Ag greenhouse gases remain at 9%](https://unitedegg.com/ag-greenshouse-gases/) - EPA issued a Draft U.S. Inventory of Greenhouse Gas Emissions last month for comment. This inventory reports the estimated emissions for each major U.S sector and totals from 1990 to 2018. Agriculture’s share of total emissions remains at approximately 9% of total emissions (8.5% in 1990, 9.2% in 2018). Energy consumption remains the largest emitter
- [Industry news 3/12/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-3-12-20/) - An alternative to the Farm Workforce Modernization Act (FWMA) is proposed in “Rep. Yoho offers new solution to ag labor crisis,” from Feedstuffs. Meanwhile, House sponsors and ag groups supporting the FWMA are asking for Senate support in “Calls made for Senate to take up ag workforce bill.” No injuries were reported in “Michael Foods
- [EPA mulls ethanol changes](https://unitedegg.com/epa-mulls-ethanol-changes/) - In the wake of an unfavorable court ruling, the Environmental Protection Agency is considering a halt to most small refinery waivers, which exempt facilities from ethanol mandates, according to press reports. A recent 10th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals’ decision invalidated three of the exemptions for refineries in Oklahoma and Wyoming. Waivers effectively reduce the
- [HSUS releases industry scorecard](https://unitedegg.com/hsus-releases-industry-scorecard/) - The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) issued its first “Food Industry Scorecard: an evaluation of food companies’ progress making and keeping animal welfare promises.” The report ranks 100 companies based on HSUS’s criteria on progress towards animal welfare commitments. The report significantly lacks transparency. It indicates a company could score from negative 80
- [Missouri animal ag inspection bill](https://unitedegg.com/missouri-animal-ag-inspection-bill/) - A proposed bill in Missouri would limit who can conduct on-farm inspections of animal ag operations within the state. According to an article in the News Tribune, the primary sponsor, state Representative Kent Haden, a former regulatory veterinarian, indicates the intention of the bill is to protect farmers from animal activist groups who attempt to
- [Industry news 2/20/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-2-20-20/) - UEP President Chad Gregory is quoted in “Meeting cage-free commitments impossible for egg producers,” from Feedstuffs. Companies continue to pledge cage-free with Hershey expanding its commitment across its global supply chain by 2025 and MGM Resorts committing to global cage-free sourcing by 2030. The Center for Food Safety and the FDA have settled their lawsuit
- [UEP hosts Coryza call for members](https://unitedegg.com/uep-hosts-coryza-call-for-members/) - During the UEP meetings in Atlanta, the membership voiced their desire for a call to provide an update on Coryza outbreaks within the layer industry. UEP staff engaged several members that have recently experienced Coryza on their farms, and they openly shared their experiences and lessons learned on a conference call on February 14. Over 100
- [Industry news 2/6/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-2-6-20/) - State officials say the spread of vND is due to broken quarantines in “Newcastle reemerges, spreads in California,” published by AVMA. “Kansas becomes 4th state with unconstitutional “ag-gag” law,” tells why the law, enacted 30 years ago, has been struck down. “Spurred by Egg Industry, Arizona Weighs a Ban on Caged Hens,” from the Phoenix
- [Trump issues final WOTUS rule](https://unitedegg.com/trump-issues-final-wotus-rule/) - EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced January 23 that the Trump Administration was sending the final version of Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule to the Federal Register. The newly named “Navigable Waters Protection Rule” (NaWPR) will replace the Obama Administration’s 2015 WOTUS rule. The Trump Administration had committed to repealing the 2015 rule and replacing
- [France announces ban on chick maceration](https://unitedegg.com/france-announces-ban-on-chick-maceration/) - While acknowledging a large-scale solution must be found that makes in-ovo egg sexing feasible, France’s secretary of agriculture, Didier Guillaume, announced a plan to oblige farms to adopt in-ovo sexing technology by 2022. Guillaume did not indicate any support or solutions to develop this needed technology. The German government was the first to announce a
- [Strong attendance at UEP Atlanta meetings](https://unitedegg.com/strong-attendance-at-uep-atlanta-meetings/) - Committee briefings provided updates and practical resources Over 200 UEP and UEA members and industry stakeholders gathered in Atlanta on January 27 for informative committee briefings. After opening comments by Chair J.T. Dean, UEP’s VP of Animal Welfare, Dr. Larry Sadler, reported on the recent growth of the UEP Certified Program at the Animal Welfare
- [Industry news 1/23/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-1-23-20/) - “USDA issues $10.2m for animal disease preparedness,” as part of the 2018 farm bill implementation in Feedstuffs. Wendy’s released its 2019 corporate social responsibility (CSR) report and announced a new commitment to animal care best practices by the end of 2024 in “Wendy’s advances animal welfare initiatives,” from Feedstuffs. Federal courts continue allowing states to
- [HPAI outbreak spreads to Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia](https://unitedegg.com/hpai-outbreak-spreads-to-hungary-romania-and-slovakia/) - Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) rapidly returned to Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia shortly after Poland’s first report of the disease in several flocks at the end of December. Slovakia reported a case in a backyard flock of mixed poultry. The disease has not been reported in Eastern Europe since 2017. Hungary reported two outbreaks of
- [What to do during a hard insurance market](https://unitedegg.com/what-to-do-during-a-hard-insurance-market/) - As nearly every egg producer is aware, the property insurance market continues to harden. This is true across nearly all commercial property sectors, but is particularly painful for agricultural-related property risks. What should you do in response to the increasing rates and decreasing number of carriers willing to offer terms? Here is a summary of
- [UEP Certified program changes](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-program-changes/) - The 2020 UEP Certified cycle has begun. Audit preferences are due January 29. The new online management tool is proving to be a success with nearly one-fourth of UEP Certified companies submitting audit preferences the first day it was available, and more than 33% having already submitted their preferences. UEP Certified has a few key
- [IPPE Tips](https://unitedegg.com/ippe-tips-2/) - The IPPE website provides online registration and detailed show information including educational programs and transportation tips. To make the most of your time, the “My Show Planner” is an online tool to find exhibitors and organize events. Those still seeking rooms can contact the IPPE Official Housing Provider. Demand for rooms was again very high,
- [State of the Union](https://unitedegg.com/state-of-the-union-3/) - By Chad Gregory, President and CEO Both opportunity and uncertainty played a role in defining the state of the U.S. egg industry in 2019. In each, UEP leveraged its expertise and relationships to provide much needed leadership and direction for the industry. UEP has an amazing and highly competent Board of Directors, as well as
- [Additional events that shaped the egg industry in 2019](https://unitedegg.com/additional-events-that-shaped-the-egg-industry-in-2019/) - The Supreme Court declined to hear arguments against state laws setting animal welfare production standards. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) worked to pass state laws in Washington, Oregon and Michigan requiring all shell eggs and egg products, produced and sold, to follow UEP Certified Cage-Free space allowance by 2024 (Washington and Oregon) and
- [Industry News 1/9/20](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-1-9-20/) - “Southern California VND outbreak increasing,” reports on new cases from backyard flocks, from Feedstuffs. “About 300,000 hens were killed in a fire at a Michigan egg farm,” from CNN. Egg-Tech prize winner Pedro Gomez explains the technology being used by the Orbern team in “Accelerated MRI technology could sex chicks in ovo,” from WattAg. Dust
- [CDFA released draft document on Proposition 12](https://unitedegg.com/cdfa-released-draft-document-on-proposition-12/) - Draft document sheds light on agency current thinking The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has released DRAFT documents on Proposition 12 prior to official rulemaking to increase public participation and improve the quality of the regulations. This release was not a public notice of the initial rulemaking required by Government Code Section 11346.5, but
- [Crafting sustainability programs in the field](https://unitedegg.com/crafting-sustainability-programs-in-the-field/) - The farmer cooperative approach UEP is a member of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC), which recently published a Field Guide for Farmer Cooperatives’ Sustainability Programs. The Field Guide explains why an operation might engage in a sustainability program and then gives practical steps for doing so. The guide does not set any specific program
- [The PFAS Contamination Crisis](https://unitedegg.com/the-pfas-contamination-crisis/) - A Story Perfect for the Movies The family of chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) has about 1,500 different members that are in manufactured products and substances that touch almost every aspect of our lives. PFAS bioaccumulates, causing serious concerns raised by public health advocates, consumer groups and environmentalists. Animals that ingest tainted feed
- [Industry News 12/12/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-12-12-19/) - “Center for Food Safety petitions for more accurate drug residue testing,” in meat, poultry, and egg products, from Food Safety News. “Gillibrand bill empowers FDA to chase down sources of food borne illnesses to wherever they go,” discusses U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s, D-NY, proposed Expanded Food Safety Inspection Act, which allows FDA to collect samples
- [Farm Workforce Modernization Act](https://unitedegg.com/farm-workforce-modernization-act/) - Last month, Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) introduced a bipartisan guestworker/H-2A reform bill, the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. On November 21, the bill was approved by the House Judiciary Committee on an 18-12 party-line vote. The Rules Committee held a meeting on December 10, and the bill is expected to be sent to the House floor for
- [Court strikes down Iowa’s 'Ag-Gag' Law](https://unitedegg.com/court-strikes-down-iowas-ag-gag-law-2/) - A federal judge has ruled against an Iowa law, labeled as “Ag-Gag” by activists, that protected producers from activist groups. Iowa’s law was different from other state laws that intend to protect agriculture production facilities, as it primarily targeted obtaining employment at a facility using false credentials and intent. The Iowa law, Agricultural production facility
- [Infographic Highlights Efficient Use of Resources](https://unitedegg.com/infographic-highlights-efficient-use-of-resources/) - “An Egg’s Journey: From Hen to Home,” shows the production process and egg farmers’ commitment to animal welfare, food safety and environmental stewardship. All UEP members are invited to share this infographic with customers, elected officials and other stakeholders. Click here to download infographic. Sections of the infographic are also available to share on social media. Please
- [Industry News 11/21/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-11-21-19/) - Two new cases of vND have been detected in “CDFA updates virulent Newcastle disease situation.” “Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. Completes Acquisition of Egg Production Assets of Mahard Egg Farm,” in Nasdaq. “Rembrandt Foods to shutter Minnesota egg plant, laying off 52 workers,” in the StarTribune. “Comment period on the New Era of Smarter Food Safety extended,”
- [2019 EGGPAC Update](https://unitedegg.com/2019-eggpac-update-11-21/) - EGGPAC Campaign contributions total $77,826, which is 62% percent of the $125,000 goal. Donations are critical to UEP’s efforts to have an effective voice in D.C. and a positive impact on issues affecting the eggindustry. To contribute, send a check made payable to United Egg Association EGGPAC, to 6455 E. Johns Crossing, Ste. 410,
- [Hearing Set on FDA Nominee](https://unitedegg.com/hearing-set-on-fda-nominee/) - President Trump’s nominee to head the Food and Drug Administration goes before a Senate committee this week. Stephen M. Hahn’s nomination as commissioner is not expected to generate major controversy. Hahn is a chief medical executive at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, one of the nation’s premier cancer-treatment centers. Hahn
- [EPA Seeks Nominations for Federal Advisory Committee](https://unitedegg.com/epa-seeks-nominations-for-federal-advisory-committee/) - The US EPA announced earlier this month that it will be reconstituting its Federal Advisory Committee on agricultural issues, and is asking for nominations for committee members. The Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Committee (FRRCC) will have 20 to 30 members who will provide “independent policy advice, information, and recommendations to EPA’s Administrator on a
- [Congress Extends Funding for FY 2019](https://unitedegg.com/congress-extends-funding-for-fy-2019/) - This week, the House introduced a continuing resolution (CR) to extend funding for fiscal year (FY) 2019 through December 20 to prevent a government shutdown. The House and Senate will pass the measure and send the bill to the president’s desk for signature before Friday. In addition to extending current funding, the CR includes several
- [USDA AMS Sanitation Update Webinar](https://unitedegg.com/usda-ams-sanitation-update-webinar/) - Tuesday, December 10, 1:30 to 3:30 pm EST Plants with USDA grading will receive registration details next week UEP and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association will be hosting a webinar to cover the USDA Agriculture Marketing Services (AMS) sanitation requirements and changes to the pre-operational sanitation report that will go into effect January 1, 2020.
- [Industry News 11/7/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-2/) - “President Trump to nominate Dr. Stephen Hahn as new FDA commissioner,” from CNN, provides background on Hahn, who is a well-known radiation oncology expert and the current chief medical executive of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Midland Daily News reports “Michigan House backs ban on cages for egg-laying hens,”
- [McCarthy Named CEO of NRDC](https://unitedegg.com/mccarthy-named-ceo-of-nrdc/) - Gina McCarthy, EPA administrator, 2013 to 2017, was named CEO of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). She has a long history of working in government environmental agencies and is known for a pragmatic approach to problem-solving. McCarthy joined NRDC because she did not want to sit on the sidelines as policy was created. She
- [FDA Public Meeting on New Era of Smarter Food Safety](https://unitedegg.com/fda-public-meeting-on-new-era-of-smarter-food-safety/) - UEP Senior VP of Regulatory Affairs Oscar Garrison, along with consultant Randy Green, attended the FDA public meeting on October 21 in Washington, D.C. The meeting was held to outline the agency’s vision and gain feedback from stakeholders on “The New Era of Smarter Food Safety.” The information provided by stakeholders during the meeting and
- [Supreme Court to Address Maui Clean Water Act Dispute](https://unitedegg.com/supreme-court-to-address-maui-clean-water-act-dispute/) - The town of Lahaina in Maui has become the center of a Clean Water Act (CWA) dispute that is tremendously important to agriculture, and the case will be heard by the Supreme Court this week. The legal issue is whether pollutants are subject to CWA federal permitting controls and penalties if they reach surface waters
- [Senate Approved $214 Billion Appropriations Minibus](https://unitedegg.com/senate-approved-214-billion-appropriations-minibus/) - Last week, the Senate voted 84-9 to approve the $214 billion “domestic” appropriations minibus. The package includes funding for the Appropriations Subcommittees on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies; Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies. The Agriculture
- [FDA Proposes Rule Requiring Testing in Accredited Labs](https://unitedegg.com/fda-proposes-rule-requiring-testing-in-accredited-labs/) - The FDA has issued a proposed rule to establish an accreditation program for laboratories that test food as required by the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Laboratories that voluntarily become accredited will be required to follow model standards and subject to appropriate oversight. The rule will ensure that the testing is done following appropriate processes,
- [2019 EGGPAC Donations Needed to Reach Goal](https://unitedegg.com/2019-eggpac-donations-needed-to-reach-goal/) - EGGPAC Campaign contributions total $74,711, which is 60% percent of the $125,000 goal. Thank you to everyone who has contributed thus far. With our team in D.C., an effective donation strategy has been implemented based on member footprint and augmented with robust PR efforts and a coordinated regulatory focus at the USDA and FDA. Donations
- [Industry News 10/24/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-10-24-19/) - Michigan Farm Bureau provides an overview of several animal welfare bills, including hen housing standards, in “Animal industry law updates progress in Legislature.” The California Department of Food & Agriculture declares no new positive detections since early September in “California moves VND response to 'Freedom of Disease' phase,” from Feedstuffs. In “Animal Welfare in Perspective,” Dr.
- [Election Results and Committee Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/election-results-and-committee-briefings-2/) - During the Annual Conference, UEP elected its new slate of officers at the Board meeting on October 17. The new officers include egg producers Tom Hertzfeld, Jr. as chairman; Craig Giroux as vice chairman; Mike West as treasurer; and J.T. Dean as secretary. Cliff Lillywhite chaired the Food Safety Committee Briefing. Jeff Hendrix from USDA,
- [Conference Attendees Enjoy Golf at The Greenbrier](https://unitedegg.com/conference-attendees-enjoy-golf-at-the-greenbrier/) - UEP hosted its annual golf tournament on October 14 at the Old White TPC Course at the Greenbrier. Since 2010, The Old White TPC has been the host of A Military Tribute at The Greenbrier, an annual PGA TOUR FedEx Cup Event. A legend of golf history at The Greenbrier, the course was named for the
- [UEP Tackles Tough Issues at Annual Conference](https://unitedegg.com/uep-tackles-tough-issues-at-annual-conference/) - The UEP board and committees focused on important issues affecting egg production at the Annual Board Meeting and Executive Conference, which was held October 14-17 at The Greenbrier. UEP members, staff and consultants reported significant updates at the committee briefings and speakers provided relevant information on topics affecting producers and egg production now and in
- [“Hot Topic” Speakers Address Industry Challenges](https://unitedegg.com/hot-topic-speakers-address-industry-challenges/) - The “Hot Topic” Speaker sessions began with a panel of experts on corporate social responsibility (CSR), facilitated by Matt Sutton-Vermeulen, who acknowledged “this topic causes tension,” but encouraged attendees to get involved. Panelists shared their experiences on why CSR is important and a framework for implementation. Dr. Brett Kaysen, Assistant VP, Sustainability, National Pork Board,
- [Barrett, Yawn, and Goward Honored at Awards Banquet](https://unitedegg.com/barrett-yawn-and-goward-honored-at-awards-banquet/) - Picture L to R: Des Yawn, Brian Barrett, Jeff Goward, Chad Gregory UEP recognized and celebrated three individuals who have made a lasting impact on the U.S. egg farming community. The awards were announced at the Annual Conference Awards Banquet on October 16 by UEP President Chad Gregory. Brian Barrett was awarded UEP’s 2019 Egg Producer
- [Ag Sustainability Efforts Shared with Legislators](https://unitedegg.com/ag-sustainability-efforts-shared-with-legislators/) - UEP, working with approximately 20 national agricultural organizations through Farmers for a Sustainable Agricultural Future (FFSAF), has prepared Sustainability Principles for use with Congress as it prepares climate change legislative proposals. Two House Committees (Energy & Commerce, and the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis) have asked all U.S. business sectors and interested organizations to
- [Industry News 10/3/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-10-3-19/) - Researchers found multiple genetic components influence the survival of hens following an HPAI infection in “Hy-Line International identifies genetic control of HPAI resistance,” from The Poultry Site. Researchers have also found that “Newcastle disease in chickens spreads easier than wild birds,” from Poultry World. The USDA announced, “Dr. Alfonso Clavijo Named Director of USDA National
- [UEP Annual Executive Conference](https://unitedegg.com/uep-annual-executive-conference/) - Travel and Meeting Tips UEP’s Annual Board Meeting & Executive Conference officially begins on Monday, October 14, with the Welcome Reception at 6 pm. Below is information to prepare for the meetings and activities. Conference Schedule: Click here for the schedule of meetings and activities, including locations. Shuttle Services: The Greenbrier offers airport transportation. Click
- [Book Hotel Now for IPPE (UEP Members)](https://unitedegg.com/book-hotel-now-for-ippe-uep-members/) - UEP Members interested in reserving a room in the UEP block at the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel for the week of the UEP Meetings and IPPE, please call Audrey Wierson with names and arrival and departure dates. The schedule is not final but UEP meetings are expected to begin around noon on Monday, January 27
- [Remain Vigilant Against Animal Activists’ Attacks](https://unitedegg.com/remain-vigilant-against-animal-activists-attacks/) - Verify Those Coming on to Your Farm Animal activists are seizing on opportunities to misrepresent themselves as government workers. In two separate incidents, persons stated they were a census worker or a USDA employee, to gain access to farms. Though neither instance involved poultry, these examples serve as a reminder to verify anyone that shows
- [FDA Announces New Era of Smarter Food Safety](https://unitedegg.com/fda-announces-new-era-of-smarter-food-safety/) - FDA Constituent Update, September 17, 2019 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it will hold a public meeting on October 21, to hear from a broad cross-section of stakeholders on a modern approach, called “A New Era of Smarter Food Safety,” that the agency is planning to strengthen its protection of the
- [Get Ready for The Greenbrier](https://unitedegg.com/get-ready-for-the-greenbrier/) - October 14-17 (Monday-Thursday) The UEP Annual Board Meeting and Executive Conference is less than a month away. Click here for the conference schedule. Room Confirmations- Hotel confirmation emails were sent out on Wednesday, September 18. If you do not find your hotel confirmation email in your inbox or spam folder please email Audrey Wierson at
- [Industry News 9/19/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-9-19-19/) - Industry News “USDA confirms additional case of virulent Newcastle Disease,” is from WattAg. A complete list of vND confirmed positive premises is available on the APHIS website. Tim Lambert, chief executive of Egg Farmers of Canada, is featured in “Two years making a difference in the egg industry,” from Poultry World. Lambert is on the
- [Ethanol Waiver Policy Could Change](https://unitedegg.com/ethanol-waiver-policy-could-change/) - Controversy continues to swirl around waivers granted by the Environmental Protection Agency that exempt some small refineries from meeting biofuel requirements. Corn farmers and ethanol companies oppose the so-called “small refinery waivers” because they have the effect of reducing total ethanol requirements in the fuel supply. The administration is reportedly considering setting limits on the
- [Clear Fire Divisions Increase Insurability](https://unitedegg.com/clear-fire-divisions-increase-insurability/) - Nearly all egg producers over a certain size have had to move to a layered property program. This means that multiple carriers join forces to build up the limits needed to adequately protect against a single loss event. One major factor that plays into the rating of insurance by the carriers that insure risks above
- [EGGPAC Donations Critical to UEP’s Voice in D.C.](https://unitedegg.com/eggpac-donations-critical-to-ueps-voice-in-d-c/) - To date, the EGGPAC Campaign has raised $40,178, which is 32 percent of the $125,000 goal. With our team in D.C., an effective donation strategy has been implemented based on member footprint and augmented with robust PR efforts and a coordinated regulatory focus at the USDA and FDA. Donations are critical to UEP’s efforts to
- [IPPE 2020 Hotel Room Block Is Now Open for UEP Members](https://unitedegg.com/ippe-2020-hotel-room-block-is-now-open-for-uep-members/) - UEP Members interested in reserving a room in the UEP block at the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel for the week of the UEP Meetings and IPPE, please email Audrey Wierson at awierson@unitedegg.com. The UEP schedule is not yet finalized but is expected to begin around noon on Monday, January 27, and conclude Tuesday, January 28.
- [Industry News 9/5/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-9-5-19/) - New cases of virulent Newcastle disease (VnD) were recently identified in San Bernardino and San Diego County in “California detects VND outside quarantine zone,” in Feedstuffs. The CDC reports on the possible issue with raising backyard chickens in “The Salmonella illnesses tied to backyard poultry flocks surpass 1,000 cases in 49 states,” published by CBS
- [GenomeTrakr Transforming Outbreak Investigations](https://unitedegg.com/genometrakr-transforming-outbreak-investigations/) - The use of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) has rapidly changed the way outbreaks are investigated across the world and was the focus of the Food Safety presentation during the UEP area briefings. Frank Yiannas, former VP of Food Safety at Walmart, addressed the 2018 Chicken Marketing Summit and made a profound statement: “Each and every
- [Beware of False GHG Emissions Data](https://unitedegg.com/beware-of-false-ghg-emissions-data/) - There have been several climate change legislation proposals in Congress since the 2018 election, including the much-publicized Green New Deal, but the most serious legislative work on major issues like climate legislation begins in Congressional committees. The House Democratic majority has major initiatives taking place in two committees; the House “Select Committee on the Climate
- [Several Bills Before Congress This Fall](https://unitedegg.com/several-bills-before-congress-this-fall/) - Congress is expecting three bills on the floor next week; HR 205 - Protecting and Securing Florida's Coastline Act (Rooney), HR 1941 - Coastal and Marine Economies Protection Act (Cunningham), HR 1146 - Arctic Cultural and Coastal Plain Protection Act (Huffman). Additionally, three gun bills are expected to be marked up in the Judiciary Committee
- [Activists Win One, Lose One](https://unitedegg.com/activists-win-one-lose-one/) - Court Dismisses HSUS Suit on Misuse of Pork Checkoff Funds An Appellate court dismissed the case against USDA and Sonny Perdue on August 23 that alleged the mishandling of checkoff funds. Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and a single pork producer together sued USDA over allowing National Pork Board to purchase four trademarks
- [Important Changes for Export of Eggs to Mexico, Puerto Rico](https://unitedegg.com/important-changes-for-export-of-eggs-to-mexico-puerto-rico/) - Over the past few weeks, changes have been implemented by Mexico and Puerto Rico that affect eggs being exported to these countries. In Mexico, a revised regulation, which was originally issued in January 2018, contained a provision requiring that all table eggs intended for retail could not be washed. This was reversed in the official
- [2019 EGGPAC Campaign Update](https://unitedegg.com/2019-eggpac-campaign-update/) - Just one month into the EGGPAC Campaign $25,504.00 has been raised, which is 20 percent of the $125,000 goal. Thank you to everyone who has contributed thus far. With our team in D.C., an effective donation strategy has been implemented based on member footprint and augmented with robust PR efforts and a coordinated regulatory focus
- [Knowledgeable Speakers Will Address Industry Issues](https://unitedegg.com/knowledge-speakers/) - Whole Genome Sequencing Experts Michael Taylor, Board Chair of Stop Foodborne Illness Michael Taylor worked at the FDA for three different time periods. In his last role, serving as Deputy Commissioner for Food and Veterinary Medicine, he led the implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act of 2011. Taylor also served as USDA Undersecretary for Food
- [Significant Industry Updates Presented at Area Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/significant-industry-updates-presented-at-area-briefings/) - Nearly 300 participants attended the UEP Area Briefings held in four cities across the U.S. The pertinent updates and open discussion provided guidance for UEP leaders and staff to represent the best interests of egg farmers on several issues. With the Area Chairmen presiding and Chad Gregory, Oscar Garrison, and Dr. Larry Sadler sharing updates,
- [Harvard Law School Launches Animal Law and Policy Clinic](https://unitedegg.com/harvard-law-school-launches-animal-law-and-policy-clinic/) - Many law schools have recently added curriculum and policy clinics to educate lawyers interested in animal law. Adding to the already existing animal law curriculum, the Harvard Law School has added an Animal Law and Policy Clinic. There is a large shift to add such curriculum at law schools. In 2000, only nine schools had
- [Insurance Property Market Continues to Harden](https://unitedegg.com/insurance-property-market-continues-to-harden/) - The insurance market continues to be difficult and volatile for not only egg producers but agriculture in general. It is difficult to predict from month to month or even week to week what Lloyd’s Underwriters, standard markets like Nationwide Agribusiness, or domestic excess and surplus markets will do on a renewal. Lloyd’s Underwriters has been
- [H7N3 HPAI Reported in Mexico](https://unitedegg.com/h7n3-hpai-reported-in-mexico/) - Four new outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) linked to the H7N3 virus variant have been confirmed in Mexico. The disease was detected in two backyard flocks in the states of Vera Cruz and Guanajuato. Infected birds were also detected in the state of Queretaro in a commercial broiler flock and a flock of
- [Unique Experiences Await Greenbrier Guests](https://unitedegg.com/unique-experiences-await-greenbrier-guests/) - The Greenbrier serves up a rich culinary tradition with over 20 restaurants, lounges, and bars. Dining options range from Asian cuisine to a classic steakhouse to the elegant Main Dining room offering southern signature dishes and live entertainment. Championship golf, the Casino Club, the Gun Club, the Greenbrier Spa and over 55 indoor and outdoor
- [2019 Annual Board Meeting & Executive Conference](https://unitedegg.com/2019-annual-board-meeting-executive-conference/) - REGISTRATION OPEN 2019 Annual Board Meeting & Executive Conference October 14 – 17 (Monday to Thursday) The Greenbrier Resort The 2019 Annual Board Meeting & Executive Conference features a schedule packed with powerful speakers and relevant industry briefings, along with the opportunity to enjoy the fabulous Greenbrier Resort in the breathtaking mountains of West Virginia.
- [Animal Activist Updates from the Animal Ag Alliance](https://unitedegg.com/animal-activist-updates-from-the-animal-ag-alliance/) - The 2019 Animal Rights National Conference will be held July 25 - 28 in the Washington, DC area. In previous years attendees have held protests, marches and vigils during and immediately after the conference. All farms, plants and other facilities within an hour or two of DC should be on alert during the conference and
- [UEP Annual Board Meeting and Executive Conference](https://unitedegg.com/uep-annual-board-meeting-and-executive-conference/) - SAVE THE DATE The Greenbrier Resort, October 14 – 17 The UEP Annual Board Meeting and Executive Conference will take place October 14-17 at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. The Greenbrier offers more than 55 indoor and outdoor activities. Registration for the Annual Meeting will open in August. Once a top-secret U.S.
- [Massachusetts Egg Amendment Not Included in Budget Bill](https://unitedegg.com/massachusetts-egg-amendment-not-included-in-budget-bill/) - A proposed amendment to the Massachusetts budget bill related to hen housing will not be included in the final bill to be presented to the governor. The amendment would have clarified and impacted the 2016 ballot initiative commonly referred to as “Question 3.” This initiative requires all eggs produced and sold in Massachusetts, beginning January
- [Industry News 7/11/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-7-11-19/) - A recent article in Politico provides the FDA’s stance in “FDA resists livestock lobby’s push on GE animals.” “Oregon Legislature: Diesel engine, cage-free hen, driver's license bills pass,” includes details on Senate Bill 1019 that requires the state’s Agriculture Department to make rules to mandate that hens be cage- free by 2024. Feedstuffs reports “No
- [Egg Quality Assurance Program Launched in Canada](https://unitedegg.com/egg-quality-assurance-program-launched-in-canada/) - Egg Farmers of Canada have launched the Egg Quality Assurance (EQA) program. Similar to UEP Certified, table egg cartons and egg product packaging that is certified to the standards can be marked with the EQA logo. Launched in February 2019, the EQA program markets the combined components of two existing Egg Farmers of Canada programs,
- [Dietary Guidelines Committee to Meet](https://unitedegg.com/dietary-guidelines-committee-to-meet/) - The expert panel that is preparing the next Dietary Guidelines for Americans holds its second meeting this week and will hear from a wide range of organizations, companies and individuals during a public comment session. Dr. Mickey Rubin of the Egg Nutrition Center will provide science-based testimony on behalf of the egg industry. The Dietary
- [Layers Minimal Emissions Ease Federal Registry Concerns](https://unitedegg.com/layers-minimal-emissions-ease-federal-registry-concerns/) - On October 30, 2009, U.S. EPA issued a final rule “to require reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from all sectors of the economy,” but only if a source of such emissions is above certain threshold amounts. Most U.S. industry and business sectors with emissions over the 25,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent in emissions
- [Animal Welfare Updates](https://unitedegg.com/animal-welfare-updates/) - Animal Ag Protection Law Challenged Environmental and social activist groups filed a lawsuit against North Carolina’s new nuisance laws. After North Carolina’s swine industry began losing multi-million-dollar lawsuits, the state legislature updated their nuisance laws to provide additional protection. The legislation was vetoed by Governor Roy Cooper, but lawmakers were able to override the vetoes.
- [Critical Need for Education on WGS Technology](https://unitedegg.com/critical-need-for-education-on-wgs-technology/) - UEP President Chad Gregory, SVP Oscar Garrison, and Consultant Randy Green met with Joe Levitt and Brian Eyink of Hogan Lovell on July 9 in WashingtonD.C. to strategize on egg safety education for the industry. In 2018, whole genome sequencing (WGS) technology was utilized by CDC and FDA in the egg outbreak associated with Salmonella
- [New Shell Egg Requirements for Export to Puerto Rico](https://unitedegg.com/new-shell-egg-requirements-for-export-to-puerto-rico/) - The instructions for Shipments to Puerto Rico have been posted on the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) website. There are a few changes Puerto Rico (PR) has requested and incorporated into their local regulations. PR will now require 45-day “Use by” dating on case labels, individual packages and flats of loose eggs Code dating on case
- [Industry News 6/27/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-6-27-19/) - “Struggles Exist in Cage-Free Egg Transition,” published in Feedstuffs, quotes UEP President Chad Gregory and J.T. Dean, the Chairman of the Animal Welfare Committee. This same topic was covered in the AgriPulse article “Egg industry struggles to meet ‘cage-free’ demands,” which also quoted Gregory, and “To meet cage-free pledges, industry will need to grow 3
- [Future Leaders Collaborate, Strategize at 2019 Conference](https://unitedegg.com/future-leaders-collaborate-strategize-at-2019-conference/) - Thirty-four future leaders from the U.S. egg industry gathered on Lake Tahoe for the seventh annual UEP Future Leaders Conference, June 18-21. The robust agenda included in-depth learning about the purpose and function of UEP, team-building adventures and working on real-world industry challenges through mock taskforce exercises. The opening session began with Billy Nolan, an expert
- [Participants Comment About  the Future Leaders Conference](https://unitedegg.com/participants-comment-about-the-future-leaders-conference/) - Thank you Future Leaders Conference sponsors! Here comments from the attendees: “This was truly an amazing 3 days of learning, problem-solving, and team building. An opportunity that all future egg industry leaders should take advantage of. So grateful to all the sponsors and staff who support and believe in all of us!” “Well organized and
- [Immigration proposal fails to offer ag worker solution](https://unitedegg.com/immigration-proposal-fails-to-offer-ag-worker-solution/) - Published by Feedstuffs, May 16, 2019 by Jacqui Fatka Industry not hopeful about comprehensive immigration proposal to address shrinking ag workforce. While speaking from the Rose Garden Thursday afternoon, President Donald Trump laid out details of an immigration proposal that puts greater emphasis on granting green cards to more highly skilled workers. However, it fails
- [FDA Warning Letters a Reminder for all Egg Farmers](https://unitedegg.com/fda-warning-letters-a-reminder-for-all-egg-farmers/) - On February 27, FDA released warning letters to two shell egg farms from inspections conducted last year. These letters convey critical reminders for all egg producers. Review each farm’s specific Salmonella enteritidis (SE) prevention plan regularly and adjust as needed. Immediately adjust the plan when changes occur on the farm. Frequently train staff on proper
- [Direct Action Everywhere Targets Duck Farm](https://unitedegg.com/direct-action-everywhere-targets-duck-farm/) - In an incident mirroring last year’s break-in of an egg farm, Direct Action Everywhere (DxE) members broke into the Reichardt Duck farm located in Petaluma, California on June 3 of this year. Like last year, the protest was part of DxE’s annual conference, held in Berkeley, CA May 29 – June 4. A duck slaughter
- [Newcastle Detections Decline in California](https://unitedegg.com/newcastle-detections-decline-in-california/) - USDA confirmed one additional premise positive for virulent Newcastle disease (vND) on May 29 in backyard exhibition chickens in San Bernardino County. The number of detections is decreasing due to swift eradication efforts and increased federal involvement since funds were released by USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to stamp out the disease. A
- [House Subcommittee Releases Ag Appropriations Report](https://unitedegg.com/house-subcommittee-releases-ag-appropriations-report/) - On June 4, the full House Appropriations Committee met to mark up the FY 2020 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. The bill includes $24.31 billion in discretionary funding, which represents a $1 billion increase over the FY19 enacted level and $5.1 billion increase over the President’s FY20 budget
- [House Passes Disaster Bill](https://unitedegg.com/house-passes-disaster-bill/) - On Monday, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 354-58 to pass the $19.1 billion disaster package. The bill provides funding to support the victims affected by the Midwest floods, California wildfires, and Hurricanes Florence and Michael. In addition, the bill contains $900 million for Puerto Rico’s recovery. Monday’s vote follows weeks of debate and delays
- [EPCRA Reporting Rule Signed; End of Long Road Near](https://unitedegg.com/epcra-reporting-rule-signed-end-of-long-road-near/) - U.S. EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler signed a final rulemaking that would exclude air emissions from animal manure for the reporting requirements of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) on June 4. While the rule will take effect 30 days from the date that it is formally published in the Federal Register, it is expected
- [UEP Supports EPA EPCRA Final Rule](https://unitedegg.com/uep-supports-epa-epcra-final-rule/) - Atlanta, Georgia, June 4, 2019: The below statement is attributable to Chad Gregory, President and CEO of United Egg Producers. “UEP thanks Administrator Wheeler and the EPA team for their rigorous work in securing the final rule for the Emergency Preparedness and Community Right to Know Act. The new rule recognizes that EPCRA/CERCLA reporting
- [Over 600 Omelets Served on Capitol Hill](https://unitedegg.com/over-600-omelets-served-on-capitol-hill/) - UEP farmer-members, staff and allied industry representatives served 636 omelets to Congressional representatives and staff on May 16 in the House Ag Committee chambers of the Longworth Building! Thank you to the large number of members, allied industry and staff who cooked made-to-order omelets and coached attendees to make their own omelet. UEP
- [Members Advocate for Egg Farmers During Hill Visits](https://unitedegg.com/members-advocate-for-egg-farmers-during-hill-visits-2/) - UEP Members and Staff Meet With Representative Collin Peterson, Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture L to R: David Lathem, Andrew Lathem, Brent Booker, Sandra Lausecker, Brian Barrett, Rob Knecht, Louie Perry, Chad Gregory, Congressman Peterson, Adam Dickerson, Craig Giroux, Steve Herbruck UEP farmer-members met with more than 100 Senators, Representatives and staff members
- [Additional Guest Speakers Present During Committee Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/additional-guest-speakers-present-during-committee-briefings/) - UEP Chairman Brian Barrett welcomed over 140 members to Washington, D.C. The legislative meetings began with the Government Relations Committee Briefing, chaired by Tom Hertzfeld, Jr. UEP consultants, Randy Green and Louie Perry, reviewed position papers on topics selected by the committee: Animal Health, Immigration, Food Labeling and Commodity Checkoff Programs. Bruce Summers, USDA Agricultural
- [Diverse Speakers Inform and Educate](https://unitedegg.com/diverse-speakers-inform-and-educate/) - A powerful lineup of speakers addressed issues important to the egg industry during the Legislative meetings and committee briefings. USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Greg Ibach reviewed USDA efforts to stop virulent Newcastle Disease in California. Actions taken include allocating $45 million in additional funding and working closely with the California Department of Food
- [Industry News 5/23/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-5-23-19/) - “Sparboe sells egg products plant to Deb El Food Products,” published in WattAg. A DxE demonstration is described from a producer perspective in “Egg farmers, animal welfare groups clash in Sonoma County,” in Peninsula Press. A new group of experts in environmental health, the animal protection movement, water quality and organic farming has been created
- [Taiwan to Require Certification for Eggs and Egg Products](https://unitedegg.com/taiwan-to-require-certification-for-eggs-and-egg-products/) - Imported eggs and egg-based products will not be allowed to enter Taiwan without food safety certifications beginning August 1 amid a fipronil scare in Europe and Asia, a food safety official said Monday. The requirement for a permit from the exporting country will cover fresh eggs, whole egg liquid, liquid egg whites, liquid egg yolks,
- [Labeling Animal Products as “Natural” Still Under Assault](https://unitedegg.com/labeling-animal-products-as-natural-still-under-assault/) - Animal activist groups continue to attack the use of “natural” in labeling and advertising even though the Animal Legal Defense Fund recently lost a lawsuit against Hormel Foods Corporation that claimed the Hormel Natural Choice advertising was misleading. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has tried novel approaches to attack natural and other
- [USDA Must End Volume Charge if Rates Increase, UEP Says](https://unitedegg.com/usda-must-end-volume-charge-if-rates-increase-uep-says/) - The Agricultural Marketing Service’s (AMS) higher rates for voluntary grading service, make sense only if the agency follows through on a proposal to eliminate the current administrative volume charge, UEP said in comments filed this week. The rates are scheduled to go into effect October 1. AMS issued a proposed rule March 25 to make
- [New UEP Certified Cage-Free Logo](https://unitedegg.com/new-uep-certified-cage-free-logo/) - At last week’s UEP Legislative Meetings, the UEP Board unanimously passed a motion to approve a new UEP Certified Cage-Free logo. California, Washington, and likely additional states will soon require “all eggs sold to be from hens in cage-free housing and the space allowance in the 2017 UEP Certified Cage Free Guidelines.” The board felt
- [WGS Revolutionizing Food Safety](https://unitedegg.com/wgs-revolutionizing-food-safety/) - Joe Levitt, the former director of FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, provided attendees at the UEP Legislative Meetings with an in-depth look at whole genome sequencing (WGS). Levitt, along with his colleague Brian Eyink, both from the law firm Hogan Lovells US LLP, spoke about the implications for the egg industry, understanding
- [It’s no simple process to become a food safety ‘thought leader’](https://unitedegg.com/its-no-simple-process-to-become-a-food-safety-thought-leader/) - By Dan Flynn, Food Safety News on May 9, 2019 CHICAGO — Oscar Garrison, senior vice president of food safety regulatory affairs for United Egg Producers, is one of the speakers at this week’s Food Safety Summit who is ending the week as a “thought leader.” Others are making that transition too, and Garrison provides a good
- [One Big Storm that is Definitely Coming](https://unitedegg.com/one-big-storm-that-is-definitely-coming/) - One storm on the horizon is a debate in Congress over climate change legislation. Whether it is the Green New Deal championed by Representative Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Markey, or more moderate measures like that by Senators Cornyn, Barrasso, Alexander, and Murkowski, or House Speaker Pelosi and others, there is growing bipartisan movement to respond to
- [Industry News 5/9/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-5-9-19/) - Governor Jay Inslee signed a law phasing out the production of eggs from caged hens in “Washington state enacts cage-free egg law,” from Feedstuffs. “Iowa’s new ag-gag law is the subject of another legal challenge,” describes the ongoing litigation over this legislation. Feedstuffs published “Farmer share of food dollar declines,” which attributes part of
- [Industry Mourns Icon, Arthur Papetti](https://unitedegg.com/industry-mourns-icon-arthur-papetti/) - “The general understanding of the term ‘godfather’ is: a man who is influential or pioneering in a movement or organization.” This perfectly describes the life and career of Arthur Papetti who passed away on May 2 at the age of 87. Papetti began working in the family business, which evolved into Papetti’s Hygrade Poultry &
- [Hormel Wins “All Natural” Lawsuit](https://unitedegg.com/hormel-wins-all-natural-lawsuit/) - The Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) has lost a lawsuit, filed in 2016, against Hormel Foods Corporation, which claimed the Hormel Natural Choice advertising was misleading. The USDA defines natural as, “A product containing no artificial ingredient or added color and is only minimally processed. Minimal processing means that the product was processed in a
- [Diverse, Knowledgeable Speakers at Legislative Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/diverse-knowledgeable-speakers-at-legislative-meetings/) - UEP is pleased to announce a powerful lineup of speakers participating in the Legislative Board and Committee Meetings next week in Washington D.C. Click here for the meeting schedule. Stephen Censky, USDA Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Censky is involved in all programs of the department, including egg products inspection at the Food Safety
- [UEP Submits Comments on Proposed WOTUS Rule](https://unitedegg.com/uep-submits-comments-on-proposed-wotus-rule/) - UEP submitted comments this week on behalf of egg producers to U.S. EPA on the agency’s proposed rule defining “Waters of the U.S.” and therefore subject to the federal Clean Water Act (CWA) jurisdiction. The Trump Administration proposed the new rule earlier this year. Once final, these new definitions would supersede those in the Obama
- [Report Claims Link Between Corn Production, Ammonia Emissions and Deaths](https://unitedegg.com/report-claims-link-between-corn-production-ammonia-emissions-and-deaths/) - A study, “Air-quality-related health damages of maize,” led by a University of Minnesota researcher, was published this month in the journal Nature. The study found that U.S. corn “production is associated with 4,300 premature deaths annually, with estimated damages in monetary terms of $39 billion.” The study suggests these deaths and costs could be avoided through
- [Industry News 4/18/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-4-18-19/) - “USDA Proposes Updated NPIP Program Standards,” with comments due by May 13. Brownfield Ag News reports “Nebraska ‘Ag Nuisance’ Bill Advances,” expanding the state’s “Right to Farm,” law. “Bill codifies USDA oversight of lab-grown meat,” from FeedStuffs reports on the proposed Hyde-Smith bill which amends the Federal Poultry and Meat Inspection Acts. The Animal Welfare
- [Biosecurity Standards Now Available in Spanish](https://unitedegg.com/biosecurity-standards-now-available-in-spanish/) - Implementing biosecurity on a poultry operation can prevent the introduction and spread of infectious diseases, including Avian Influenza. Poultry biosecurity resources were released in December 2018 now have a full complement of resources in Spanish. Spanish resources available include: Educational videos to use in employee training programs Handouts for quick reference of biosecurity principles for
- [Senate Starts Child Nutrition Work](https://unitedegg.com/senate-starts-child-nutrition-work/) - The Senate Agriculture Committee kicked off an effort to reauthorize child nutrition programs and hopes to pass a bill later this year. At an April 10 hearing, Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS) said, “There is a pathway for child nutrition programs to be reauthorized in a bipartisan manner yet this year.” The child nutrition programs offer
- [FDA Issues New Q & A on Veterinary Feed Directive](https://unitedegg.com/fda-issues-new-q-a-on-veterinary-feed-directive/) - The Food and Drug Administration issued a revised question-and-answer guidance document on the agency’s Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD). The VFD, which went into effect in 2015, governs the use of animal drugs in or on animal feed that requires the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. FDA has added 53 new questions and revised 14 existing
- [New Guest Worker Concept](https://unitedegg.com/new-guest-worker-concept/) - Immigration efforts continue to take shape. A new guest worker concept bill is being proposed by Ag leader Congressman Ted Yoho (R) from Florida. The bill is an attempt to address existing unauthorized workers, future flow, and enforcement. The effort is designed to be added to Democratic efforts that are also ongoing and is not
- [APHIS Hosts LPAI Indemnity and Compensation Discussion](https://unitedegg.com/aphis-hosts-lpai-indemnity-and-compensation-discussion/) - UEP’s Senior VP of Food Safety Regulatory Affairs, Oscar Garrison, attended a policy discussion with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in Riverdale, Maryland on April 17. The agency outlined their draft policy for indemnity and compensation in the event of low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) H5 or H7 detection in commercial poultry.
- [Register by April 10 for UEP’s 2019 Legislative Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/register-by-april-10-for-ueps-2019-legislative-meetings/) - Updated 4/9/19 UEP’s 2019 Legislative Meetings will be May 15 - May 17, at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C. UEP and UEA members planning to attend the meetings need to register as soon as possible. The meeting registration deadline is April 10. Due to outstanding attendance, the UEP room block is sold
- [Disaster Assistance Stalls Again](https://unitedegg.com/disaster-assistance-stalls-again/) - On Monday, the Senate voted down two disaster relief packages; one drafted by Senate Republicans and another House-passed bill. Democrats argued that the Senate-drafted bill, which included $600 million for Puerto Rico, did not include enough money to help the U.S. territory that has been devastated by hurricanes the past two years. Democrats have demanded
- [UEP Legislative Meetings Once Again a Huge Success](https://unitedegg.com/uep-legislative-meetings-once-again-a-huge-success/) - Prominent speakers, informative issue briefings, and meetings with Congressional representatives topped the agenda for the 2018 Legislative Meetings held last week in Washington, D.C. UEP Chairman Brian Barrett and President Chad Gregory, welcomed over 150 egg farmers and allied industry representatives to the nation’s capital. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt addressed environmental policymaking and several other
- [Industry News](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news/) - WatttAg reported on, “Cal-Maine invests to meet Proposition 12 egg demand.” “Dakota Layers become first US farm to reach 500 egg milestone,” describes how the company achieved a production level of 500 eggs per hen housed over 100 weeks from Poultry World. “3-year old break for medium-sized CAFOs gets challenged in D.C. court,” describes environmental
- [Gottlieb Signals “Healthy” Rule Ahead](https://unitedegg.com/gottlieb-signals-healthy-rule-ahead/) - Nearing his departure date, Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb said his agency was preparing a regulation to modify the definition of “healthy” when the term is used on food labels. He also confirmed FDA was considering an official icon that could be used on foods that qualify to be labeled as healthy. FDA
- [Lawsuit Filed for Controls in IA’s Raccoon River Watershed](https://unitedegg.com/lawsuit-filed-for-controls-in-ias-raccoon-river-watershed/) - On March 27 environmental groups renewed their effort to get the courts to curtail animal agriculture in Iowa and impose mandatory nutrient management permitting on farmers. This latest lawsuit, filed in Iowa state court, follows a defeat suffered by the Des Moines Water Works’ in federal district court in 2017. That litigation sought to force
- [USDA Shifts Emergency Funds to Address vND in California](https://unitedegg.com/usda-shifts-emergency-funds-to-address-vnd-in-california/) - USDA Press Release, March 22, 2019 Secretary Perdue is making available an additional $45 million to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and its partners to address the ongoing virulent Newcastle disease (vND) outbreak in southern California. This funding will allow APHIS and the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to strengthen
- [USDA Releases $45 million to address vND in California](https://unitedegg.com/usda-releases-45-million-to-address-vnd-in-california/) - On March 22, Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced that USDA has allocated $45 million to address vND in California. United Egg Producers staff and consultants, along with other national poultry and agriculture groups, have diligently encouraged USDA to take action on the urgent need for additional emergency funding for the eradication of Virulent Newcastle
- [Grain Dust Explosions in the U.S.](https://unitedegg.com/grain-dust-explosions-in-the-u-s/) - UEP’s March 7 newsletter featured an article on a new federal environmental reporting requirement involving “combustible dust” that is found at feed mills and that may apply to some egg operations. These “Tier II” reports are required under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). The combustible dust element is the result of a
- [Industry News and Events 3/22/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-and-events-3-22-19/) - The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) new initiative is outlined in “HSUS scorecard to measure corporate animal welfare commitments.” The scorecard is designed to measure food companies progress toward meeting their animal welfare commitments. “Trump Crackdown Unnerves Immigrants, and the Farmers Who Rely on Them,” discusses agricultures dependence on an undocumented labor force,
- [Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Named](https://unitedegg.com/dietary-guidelines-advisory-committee-named/) - Twenty nutrition experts, the most ever, will serve on the committee that prepares the 2020 edition of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA). While the departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services make final decisions about what is in the DGA, they seldom diverge from the recommendations of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. The
- [FDA Statement on Food Safety](https://unitedegg.com/fda-statement-on-food-safety/) - Statement from FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D., and Deputy Commissioner Frank Yiannas on new steps to strengthen FDA’s food safety program for 2020 and beyond News Release, March 19 When it comes to the foods we eat, we live in an unprecedented time of technological change. Thanks to innovations in technology and the new requirements
- [Free Range Producer Faces Lawsuit](https://unitedegg.com/free-range-producer-faces-lawsuit/) - A lawsuit has been filed against Nellie’s Free Range Eggs and parent company, Pete and Gerry’s Organics LLC, over their free-range label. The suit claims Nellie’s violates consumer trust and mistreats its laying hens. The plaintiffs, backed by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, state the carton imagery, depicting a child near hens in
- [Pennsylvania Producers Battling Coryza Disease](https://unitedegg.com/pennsylvania-producers-battling-coryza-disease/) - Twenty-four separate farm cases of infectious Coryza have been confirmed in both layers and broilers in the Harrisburg/Lancaster area of Pennsylvania. While the disease does not affect humans and is not a food safety concern, it can be transmitted to unaffected birds by humans who have come in contact with birds affected by the disease.
- [Newcastle Detected in Northern California](https://unitedegg.com/newcastle-detected-in-northern-california/) - News that Virulent Newcastle Disease (vND) has moved north from Southern California has the poultry industry very concerned. The disease was detected in a bird at a veterinary clinic in Redwood City in Alameda County late last week. Currently, the California Department of Food and Agriculture and USDA are not aware of any other cases in
- [Registration Open for 2019 Legislative Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/registration-open-for-2019-legislative-meetings/) - Registration is now open for UEP’s Annual Legislative Meetings, May 15 - May 17, at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C. All members are encouraged to attend and meet with Senators, Representatives and Congressional staff to present UEP’s position papers on egg production issues. The Issues Briefings will begin at 12:30 pm on
- [Court strikes down Iowa’s 'Ag-Gag' Law](https://unitedegg.com/court-strikes-down-iowas-ag-gag-law/) - A federal judge has ruled against an Iowa law, labeled as “Ag-Gag” by activists, that protected producers from activist groups. Iowa’s law was different from other state laws that intend to protect agriculture production facilities, as it primarily targeted obtaining employment at a facility using false credentials and intent. The Iowa law, Agricultural production facility
- [Industry News 3/7/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-3-7-19/) - “Kroger to face PETA protest Tuesday over egg source,” reports on the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) recent protest at Kroger’s Cincinnati headquarters. “USDA and FDA Announce a Formal Agreement to Regulate Cell-Cultured Food Products from Cell Lines of Livestock and Poultry,” was released today. UEP President Chad Gregory is widely quoted
- [Why Social Media?](https://unitedegg.com/why-social-media/) - Social media is a fast, inexpensive, and effective way to convey UEP’s messages to an audience that is difficult to reach in other ways. What are the benefits? Using social media, UEP can: Highlight egg farmers’ positive efforts regarding the environment, food safety and biosecurity. Reach a varied audience of legislators, regulators, ag organizations and
- [FDA Commissioner Resigns Unexpectedly](https://unitedegg.com/fda-commissioner-resigns-unexpectedly/) - Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb announced he will step down to spend more time with his family. Although the move was unexpected, administration officials were quoted praising Gottlieb, and some press speculated he might be offered another top job at a later time. Though Gottlieb’s background in the pharmaceutical industry drew some initial
- [WOTUS Webinar on March 19](https://unitedegg.com/wotus-webinar-on-march-19/) - U.S. EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers have proposed a new definition for waters that are subject to federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act, called Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS). The goal of the rule is to respect the Supreme Court's finding that there is a point beyond which water features are too
- [Tier II EPCRA Reporting of Combustible Dust](https://unitedegg.com/tier-ii-epcra-reporting-of-combustible-dust/) - On Friday, February 22, UEP notified egg producers of a new federal environmental reporting requirement involving “combustible dust” that is found at feed mills. These “Tier II” reports are required under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). The combustible dust element is the result of a 2016 U.S. EPA rulemaking that aligned Tier
- [Company Trends in Animal Welfare Highlighted in Report](https://unitedegg.com/company-trends-in-animal-welfare-highlighted-in-report/) - The 2018 Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare was recently released by Compassion in World Farming and World Animal Protection. Though the perspective of these animal activist groups differs from many in the ag industry, the study can still be used to highlight company trends in animal welfare policies. The report details mostly publicly available
- [California Expands Newcastle Quarantine Area](https://unitedegg.com/california-expands-newcastle-quarantine-area/) - UEP and other ag organizations are urging USDA to secure funding to eradicate vND Virulent Newcastle disease (vND) is killing a growing number of Southern California chickens. State Veterinarian Annette Jones announced a poultry quarantine for all of Los Angeles County and large portions of San Bernardino and Riverside counties to stop the spread of
- [Industry News 2/21/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-2-21-19/) - Jayson Lusk, Economics Professor at Purdue University, provides an overview of research on the gap between consumer voting and buying behavior regarding cage-free eggs in his blog post, “Why Don’t We Vote Like We Shop?” “Protein industry told to wake up, be involved,” provides University of California-Davis professor and air quality specialist, Frank Mitloehner’s view
- [Salmonella Reading Outbreak in Raw Turkey Continues](https://unitedegg.com/salmonella-reading-outbreak-in-raw-turkey-continues/) - As of February 13, 279 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Reading associated with raw turkey products have been reported in 41 states and the District of Columbia. Over one hundred people have been hospitalized, and one death has been reported from California. Epidemiologic and laboratory evidence indicates that raw turkey products from
- [President Trump Signs Funding Agreement](https://unitedegg.com/president-trump-signs-funding-agreement/) - Last week, President Trump signed an omnibus spending package that includes funding for the FY 2019 Agriculture, Commerce-Justice-Science, Financial Services, Interior-Environment, State-Foreign Operations and Transportation-HUD, and Homeland Security appropriations bills, averting another government shutdown. The bill provides a total of $1.011 billion for USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to protect plant and animal
- [Supreme Court Decides to Hear Controversial Maui Case](https://unitedegg.com/supreme-court-decides-to-hear-controversial-maui-case/) - This week the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a Clean Water Act (CWA) case that began in Maui and involves a question never definitively resolved about the scope of the CWA; do federal CWA regulatory controls extend to pollutants that move through groundwater before reaching a federal Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS)? While this
- [Public Relations 2018](https://unitedegg.com/public-relations-2018/) - UEP continues to foster strong media relations and be a relevant voice for regulatory, legislative and other industry issues. Below is a brief overview of UEP’s public relations in 2018 as presented in the Atlanta meetings by UEP’s Director of Communications Kathy Bryan and PR Consultant Hinda Mitchell. Click here for a detailed 2018 Public
- [Important Updates to the UEP Certified Program](https://unitedegg.com/important-updates-to-the-uep-certified-program/) - The welfare of hens is the heart of UEP Certified, and UEP recognizes Program Participants are always working to ensure great welfare for the hens in their care. We want to validate that appropriate and swift action is taken in the extremely rare event that abuse occurs. During the February 2019 UEP meeting, the UEP
- [UEP Certified Portal Now Live](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-portal-now-live/) - UEP Certified’s online portal is up and running. Since this is a new system, companies are asked to input their data using a phased approach. The Program Participant Administrators can help ensure success by promptly entering data once requested. Certified Portal Benefits include: One-time entry of company information, saving your company time. In future years,
- [Informative UEP Atlanta Meetings Well Attended](https://unitedegg.com/informative-uep-atlanta-meetings-well-attended/) - A large crowd of UEP members, Allied members and industry stakeholders gathered in Atlanta for meetings on February 11 and 12. The Animal Welfare briefing included an update on the new portal and audit subcommittee recommendations presented by JT Dean, Animal Welfare Committee Chairman. Other topics included updates on state welfare legislative issues and OIE
- [Joint Scientific Advisory - Animal Welfare Producer Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/joint-scientific-advisory-animal-welfare-producer-meeting-2/) - On February 13, there was a joint meeting of the Animal Welfare Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) and Producer Committee for Animal Welfare. This was an opportunity for members of the two committees to discuss topics of interest and to strengthen both committees’ efforts to improve hen welfare. Per UEP Board direction, the committees identified three
- [2019 Future Leaders Conference - Lake Tahoe](https://unitedegg.com/2019-future-leaders-conference-lake-tahoe/) - This year’s Future Leaders Conference will be June 18-21 at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino, Incline Village, NV. UEP staff and consultants are finalizing the details for what will once again be an amazing experience for your future leaders. Attendees will find the discussions relevant, thought-provoking and applicable to individual operations,
- [Industry News 2/7/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-2-7-19/) - “Senate bill would restrict who can perform farm inspections,” provides the details about a bill proposed by an Indiana Senator to bar other states and animal welfare activists from inspecting ag operations in Indiana. USAPEEC hires former chief veterinary officer in “USA Poultry & Egg Export Council hires Dr. John Clifford,” in Feedstuffs. Direct Action
- [Get Ready for an EPA Inspection Now](https://unitedegg.com/get-ready-for-an-epa-inspection-now/) - U.S. EPA regularly conducts compliance or enforcement inspections of large concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), including egg layer farms and ranches. Just as “by the time you need friends, it is too late to make them” one should remember that “by the time you get a visit from your regulatory inspector, it is too late
- [Virulent Newcastle Cases in California Continue to Rise](https://unitedegg.com/virulent-newcastle-cases-in-california-continue-to-rise/) - Eradication Efforts Intensify California continues to see an uptick in detections of virulent Newcastle Disease (vND), mostly in “backyard exhibition chickens”. The sheer number of potentially infected premises requires extensive manpower when conducting house-by-house surveillance. Despite intensified biosecurity efforts to eradicate vND, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced additional cases continue to
- [Farm Bill Implementation](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill-implementation/) - With the reopening of the federal government, USDA and other affected agencies have resumed normal operations with department officials focused on implementing the 2018 farm bill. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Stephen Censky is leading the implementation effort. Deputy Secretary Censky, the Office of the General Counsel (OGC), the Office of Budget and Program Analysis (OBPA),
- [Registration Open for 2019 UEP Future Leaders Conference](https://unitedegg.com/registration-open-for-2019-uep-future-leaders-conference/) - UEP is excited to open registration for the 2019 UEP Future Leaders Conference. The event will be held at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino in Incline Village, Nevada, June 18-21. UEP staff and consultants are putting together the final details for what will be another outstanding Future Leaders Conference. Attendees will
- [UEP Supports Wheeler's Nomination to EPA](https://unitedegg.com/uep-supports-wheelers-nomination-to-epa/) - MEDIA STATEMENT Atlanta, Georgia, February 7, 2019: The below statement is attributable to Chad Gregory, President and CEO of United Egg Producers “United Egg Producers (UEP) fully supports Andrew Wheeler’s confirmation as EPA Administrator. Mr. Wheeler is a highly qualified, experienced professional who has a history of supporting EPA’s mission. The egg industry has several
- [IPPE Tips and Information](https://unitedegg.com/ippe-tips/) - Planning Your IPPE Experience Here is logistical information for the 2019 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) – February 12 to February 14 in Atlanta. IPPE Show The IPPE website provides online registration and all show information including educational programs and transportation tips. To make the most of your time and track all the must-dos,
- [Antibiotic Use Decreases, Consumer Concerns Remain](https://unitedegg.com/antibiotic-use-decreases-consumer-concerns-remain/) - While some issues flare in popularity, antibiotic use in agriculture is drawing more attention than ever before. There are two issues that companies and non-government organizations (NGOs) voice as concerns: 1) Residual antibiotics in the U.S. food supply and 2) The development of resistant bacteria, or so-called “superbugs.” Many consumers and even some decision makers
- [Industry News 1/24/19](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-1-24-19/) - Four Direct Action Everyone activists are facing felony charges for the removal of animals. Read more in “Activists face felony charges in case targeting Petaluma poultry farm protests,” from The Press Democrat. Mercy for Animal’s recruiting efforts are discussed in “With Iowa's ag-gag law ruled unconstitutional, animal rights group seeks undercover investigator,” in the Des
- [No Shutdown Resolution in Sight](https://unitedegg.com/no-shutdown-resolution-in-sight/) - Last week the House passed a Democratic-backed disaster relief bill. The legislation includes funding for the remaining appropriations bills, including $12.1 billion in disaster relief for those affected by the 2018 natural disasters, $3 billion of which is designated for agricultural disaster aid. In response to President Trump’s offer over the weekend, Senate Majority Leader
- [Newcastle Confirmed in 2nd and 3rd Commercial Flocks](https://unitedegg.com/newcastle-confirmed-in-second-commercial-flock/) - The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed virulent Newcastle disease (vND) in two more commercial poultry flocks in California. The latest cases are flocks also in Riverside County. The first commercial finding in a pullet flock was announced on December 15. These are the first three cases of vND in commercial
- [Industry News 1/10/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-1-10-18/) - “Fingerprints don’t lie: Experts say 2018 outbreak stats reflect value of WGS,” addresses the public perception about the increase in food-related outbreaks, published in Food Safety News. Governor Rick Snyder’s veto of a bill which called for a delay in cage-free hen standards from 2020 to 2025 is explained in “Bill to delay hen housing requirements
- [Is Spontaneous Combustion a Risk on Your Farm?](https://unitedegg.com/is-spontaneous-combustion-a-risk-on-your-farm/) - When manure removal systems were introduced to the egg industry, insurers assumed the systems would lower the amount of combustibles inside the layer house. However, without proper management, these systems can increase the likelihood of fire. There are various manure removal designs: Direct removal Free-standing manure barn separated from the layer house Drying systems added
- [Supreme Court Refuses Animal Welfare Case](https://unitedegg.com/supreme-court-refuses-animal-welfare-case/) - The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) has declined to hear arguments against state laws setting production animal welfare standards. This was the expected outcome after the Department of Justice (DOJ) recommended the high court reject a petition to present to the Supreme Court. The SCOTUS declined to hear three challenges, includes two requests
- [State of the Union](https://unitedegg.com/state-of-the-union-2/) - By Chad Gregory, President and CEO 2018 will no doubt be recorded as a rollercoaster year for the U.S. egg industry. There were plenty of things to be thankful for and some great achievements, but also numerous setbacks. Each one of these challenges presented an opportunity for UEP to help lead the industry. There was
- [Industry News 12/13/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-12-13-18/) - WattAG provides an update in “California virulent Newcastle disease cases continue,” on the spread of the disease in backyard exhibition flocks in California. “Michigan Lawmakers Look to Delay Cage-Free Ban for Hens,” summarizes the Legislature’s plan to push back animal welfare standards, scheduled to take effect in October 2019, published by U.S. News and World
- [Guest Editorial:  Minnesota LPAI Deja Vu All Over Again?](https://unitedegg.com/guest-editorial-minnesota-lpai-deja-vu-all-over-again/) - By Dr. Simon M. Shane The number of cases of H5N2 low pathogenicity strain avian influenza in two adjacent counties in Minnesota has reached eight in five weeks. There appears to be an attitude of complacency given that the isolates involved are characterized as low-pathogenic strains. It is axiomatic that given sufficient time and a
- [New WOTUS  Rule Clarifies the Scope of Federal Jurisdiction](https://unitedegg.com/new-wotus-rule-clarifies-the-scope-of-federal-jurisdiction/) - The U.S. EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sent the long-awaited proposed rule defining what are Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS), subject to federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act, to the Federal Register this week. This rule would replace the 2015 WOTUS rule that was issued by the Obama Administration and has been
- [Farm Bill Passes, Includes Disease Prevention Funding](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill-passes-includes-disease-prevention-funding/) - After the conference report was released on Monday by the Agriculture Committee leaders, both the Senate and House moved quickly to vote and pass the farm bill. The legislation, which now goes to President Trump for signature, aligns loosely with the House version and includes several funding changes adopted from the Senate bill. Overall, the
- [UEP Welcomes WOTUS Proposed Rule](https://unitedegg.com/uep-welcomes-wotus-proposed-rule/) - MEDIA STATEMENT Atlanta, Georgia, December 11, 2018: The below statement is attributable to Chad Gregory, President and CEO of United Egg Producers regarding the release of the new Waters of the United States rule. “United Egg Producers and the nation’s egg farmers welcome today’s proposed rule on defining what are Waters of the U.S.
- [Biosecurity Plans Essential for Indemnity Payments in 2019](https://unitedegg.com/biosecurity-plans-essential-for-indemnity-payments-in-2019/) - UEP urges members to be vigilant in implementing biosecurity plans for 2019, comparing existing plans with the National Poultry Improvement Plan’s (NPIP) 14 biosecurity principles to determine compliance. This includes retraining employees on these principles and working with the NPIP official state agency throughout this process. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant
- [Fire Protection “Model” Code for Animal Housing](https://unitedegg.com/fire-protection-model-code-for-animal-housing/) - The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has issued a new “model” code that addresses how seven classes of animal housing facilities, including commercial livestock and poultry operations, should be designed and constructed to address fire and safety risks. NFPA is a U.S. trade association that was formed in 1896 by a group of insurance companies
- [California Orders Mandatory Euthanasia to Control vND](https://unitedegg.com/california-orders-mandatory-euthanasia-to-control-vnd/) - Due to progression and duration of a virulent Newcastle Disease (vND) outbreak in parts of Southern California, California State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones has ordered mandatory euthanasia of birds in neighborhoods in Compton (Los Angeles County), Muscoy (San Bernardino County), and Mira Loma/Jurupa Valley (Riverside County). This order applies to all birds and flocks even
- [Remembering Jack Shuford](https://unitedegg.com/remembering-jack-shuford/) - As the egg industry mourns the loss of Jack Shuford in early November, we remember his important contributions to egg producers. In 1978 egg producers were having difficulty purchasing building and bird insurance. To resolve this problem, Jack Shuford established a Property and Casualty Insurance Program specifically for UEP members. Though working with different insurance
- [EPA Issues Proposed EPCRA Rulemaking for Public Comment](https://unitedegg.com/epa-issues-proposed-epcra-rulemaking-for-public-comment/) - U.S. EPA Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler signed a proposed rule to amend the emergency release notification regulations under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) on October 30. The rule confirms that reporting of air emission from animal waste at farms is not required under EPCRA. This rule reflects the effects on EPCRA reporting that
- [Industry News 11/8/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-11-8-18/) - According to the CDC, more than half the cases of foodborne illness outbreaks each year are associated with food from restaurants. Food Safety News summarizes study findings in “Food safety practices and behaviors at restaurants target of 10-year FDA study.” “Six animal welfare activists face felony charges for Petaluma chicken farm protest,” provides the latest
- [Biosecurity is Essential During Fall Migratory Season](https://unitedegg.com/biosecurity-is-essential-during-fall-migratory-season/) - With the migration of wild birds in progress across the U.S., UEP reminds all poultry owners to use extra vigilance ensuring compliance of biosecurity practices and monitoring of flocks. Several resources from UEP, USDA, and USPOULTRY are available to support biosecurity protocol development, education, and training for farm employees, vendors, visitors, and owners of backyard
- [Global Coalition for Animal Welfare](https://unitedegg.com/global-coalition-for-animal-welfare/) - In October, the Global Coalition for Animal Welfare (GCAW) was launched. Self-described as the “world’s first food industry-led initiative aimed at advancing animal welfare globally,” founding members are seven major food companies. Aramark, Compass Group, Elior Group, IKEA, Nestle, Sodexo, and Unilever, have combined revenues of $165 billion and 3.7 billion customers. The website for
- [Minnesota LPAI Update](https://unitedegg.com/minnesota-lpai-update/) - The Minnesota Board of Animal Health (MBAH) has reported several new cases of H5N2 low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) in commercial turkey flocks in Sterns and Kandiyohi Counties, bringing the total to six cases since October 19. The four flocks in Sterns County were detected between October 30 and November 3 and involve flocks between the
- [Majority of Egg Producers in Contact with First Responders](https://unitedegg.com/majority-of-egg-producers-in-contact-with-first-responders/) - UEP surveyed members of the UEP Environment Committee and Board regarding contact with their local “first responders.” The survey results, while no surprise, spoke volumes about why egg producers succeed in this country as much more than just business people. Environmental activists will surely challenge the farm emissions exclusion from EPCRA, recently citing in a
- [UEP Welcomes EPA Emissions Ruling](https://unitedegg.com/uep-welcomes-epa-emissions-ruling/) - MEDIA STATEMENT Atlanta, Georgia, October 30, 2018: The below statement is attributable to Chad Gregory, President and CEO of United Egg Producers. Updated November 8, 2018 “United Egg Producers and the nation’s egg farmers welcome today’s proposed rule regarding the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know (EPCRA) Act and are grateful to U.S.
- [IPPE Hotel Deadline is November 1 for UEP Members](https://unitedegg.com/ippe-hotel-and-registration-information/) - UEP Members interested in reserving hotel rooms for the February meeting and IPPE at the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel should email Audrey Wierson at awierson@unitedegg.com. The UEP room block will close on November 1. Please include all the following information in the email: dates accommodations are needed, credit card number, name on the card, billing
- [“Hot Topic” Speakers Entertain, Inspire and Educate](https://unitedegg.com/hot-topic-speakers-entertain-inspire-and-educate/) - The conference agenda included a diverse slate of speakers. Industry legend Howard Helmer was warmly welcomed by the crowd. As the Guinness world record holder for cooking omelets, 427 in 30 minutes, Helmer has spent years educating people about the ease of transforming eggs into omelets. Helmer charmed the crowd as he demonstrated how to
- [Golfers Enjoy Scenic and Challenging Wailea Golf Course](https://unitedegg.com/golfers-enjoy-scenic-and-challenging-wailea-golf-course/) - UEP hosted its annual golf tournament at the Wailea Gold Course, honored dozens of times by Golf Magazine, Golf Digest, Golfweek, Gayot and Zagat. Fifty-six participants enjoyed an amazing day of networking and fellowship while admiring the spectacular views. Tournament winners in the scramble format were: Christian LaPak, Tim Lambert, John Bedell, and Mike Windham. Second place winners were Bill
- [2018 EGGPAC Donations Needed to Reach Goal](https://unitedegg.com/2018-eggpac-campaign-update/) - The EGGPAC Campaign has raised $113,545.67, which is 91 percent of the $125,000 goal. Thank you to everyone who has contributed thus far. With our team in D.C., an effective donation strategy has been implemented, based on member location and augmented with robust public relations and a coordinated regulatory focus at the USDA and FDA.
- [UEP Celebrates 50th Anniversary at Annual Conference](https://unitedegg.com/uep-celebrates-50th-anniversary-at-annual-conference/) - Members celebrate achievements, recognize leaders, prepare for the future Over 500 members and guests celebrated UEP’s 50th Anniversary at the Annual Conference in Maui, October 15-19. Events during the week celebrated UEP’s leadership, advocacy, and achievements over the past 50 years. Special recognition was given to founding members in UEP’s 50th Anniversary Book, which documents
- [Election Results and Committee Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/election-results-and-committee-briefings/) - While celebrating the past, UEP members also looked to the future with the election of officers and a new Board. Officers are Brian Barrett, chairman; Tom Hertzfeld, Jr., 1st vice chairman; Craig Giroux, treasurer; and Mike West, secretary. Glenn Hickman, Rob Knecht, Sherman Miller, and Jason Ramsdell were named at-large board members. Committee chairs and
- [Global Egg Industry Statement on Antimicrobial Resistance](https://unitedegg.com/global-egg-industry-statement-on-antimicrobial-resistance/) - The global egg industry formally endorsed the following statement on the industry’s use of antimicrobials during the Global Leadership Conference of the International Egg Commission which took place in Kyoto in September. Statement on Antimicrobial Resistance The International Egg Commission and its members support, and will promote, the responsible use of all antimicrobials to allow
- [Industry News 10/4/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-10-4-18/) - Greg Ibach, Under Secretary for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Marketing and Regulatory Programs, announced USDA’s four goals in “USDA Outlines Next Steps for Advancing Animal Disease Traceability.” Researchers at the University of Tennessee and Kansas State University are asking producers to participate in a survey about on-farm biosecurity practices. “Producer survey seeks biosecurity, indemnity
- [Faster Poultry Line Speeds Could Mean Litigation](https://unitedegg.com/faster-poultry-line-speeds-could-mean-litigation/) - Labor and food safety advocacy groups could file suit over a new Food Safety and Inspection Service policy that will allow faster line speeds at some chicken slaughter plants, according to Agri-Pulse. The newsletter reports that FSIS announced new criteria for allowing slaughter plants to increase their line speeds from 140 birds per minute to
- [EPA Sued by Environmental Groups Over CAFO’s EPCRA Reporting Exclusion](https://unitedegg.com/epa-sued-by-environmental-groups-over-cafos-epcra-reporting-exclusion/) - Several environmental groups sued U.S. EPA for the decision that air emissions from manure do not need to be reported under the Emergency Preparedness and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA). The complaint was filed on September 28. The environmental groups are challenging EPA’s EPCRA decision as expressed in interpretive guidance that the agency issued last April
- [FDA Statement on Disclosing Retailers for Recalls](https://unitedegg.com/fda-statement-on-disclosing-retailers-for-recalls/) - Issued September 26, Excerpt - click here for full statement. FDA recognizes the importance of providing consumers with actionable information related to recalled food products. That’s why today the FDA issued new draft guidance that describes situations when disclosing retail information for products undergoing recalls is appropriate. The draft guidance outlines the circumstances when the FDA intends
- [Farm Bill](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill-2/) - The 2014 farm bill expired on Sunday, September 30. Although Conference leadership has expressed a desire to finalize the farm bill in October, in order to quickly approve a final agreement in November, without a final deadline there is little possibility of resolution by then. The main issues remain centered around the commodity, conservation, and
- [FDA Releases Update on Gravel Ridge Farms Egg Recall](https://unitedegg.com/fda-releases-update-on-gravel-ridge-farms-egg-recall/) - As of October 2, there are 38 illnesses associated with shell eggs from Gravel Ridge Farms in Cullman, Alabama. The FDA began inspecting Gravel Ridge Farms on September 5 and collected environmental samples for testing. The results were used to confirm that Salmonella enteritidis isolates collected from environmental and egg samples taken at the farm were
- [Ag Appropriations](https://unitedegg.com/ag-appropriations/) - Last week, the House voted 361-61 to pass H.R. 6157. The $855.1 billion minibus includes funding for the Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act. In addition, the legislation includes a continuing resolution through December 7 for any appropriations bill not enacted, including the Department of Agriculture. The President
- [Maui Last Minute Reminders and Tips](https://unitedegg.com/maui-last-minute-reminders-and-tips/) - All attendees should have received the following: A confirmation email from the hotel indicating a two-night deposit has been paid. A confirmation email indicating registration has been paid (including guests). Airport Transportation: SpeediShuttle provides shared-ride airport transportation in Mercedes shuttles at a per person rate of $24.70 one way and $49.40 round trip between the
- [California Continues to Battle New Castle and LPAI](https://unitedegg.com/california-continues-to-battle-new-castle-and-lpai/) - Three additional cases of virulent Newcastle disease (vND) recently were confirmed in California, two in backyard chicken flocks and one in a live bird market. Birds from the affected live bird market, located in Los Angeles County, have been depopulated, and the market has been cleaned and disinfected to prevent additional spread of the disease. As
- [Industry News 9/20/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-9-20-18/) - USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue’s comments urging Congress to pass an immigration bill are summarized in “Perdue: Congress must shield farmers from 'shadows of illegality' on labor,” from Politico. “Interior’s Sue and Settle Order Exposes Secret Settlements with Activists,” provides details on the U.S. Department of Interior’s order to open any public deals to public scrutiny, published
- [Environment Updates](https://unitedegg.com/environment-updates/) - Below are brief updates on some key environmental topics that are important to U.S. egg producers. Outlook for U.S. EPA Under Administrator Wheeler Several producers have inquired as to whether the change in the leadership at EPA, where Andy Wheeler is now serving as the administrator after the departure of Scott Pruitt, is going to
- [Farm Bill Deadline Looms](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill-deadline-looms/) - Congressional negotiators have not reached agreement on the 2018 farm bill, despite a looming September 30 expiration date for the current farm law. Capitol Hill agriculture leaders continued to be divided over proposed new work requirements in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, by whether to reorganize and consolidate conservation programs and how much to spend
- [LPAI Detected in Turkeys in California](https://unitedegg.com/lpai-detected-in-turkeys-in-california/) - A case of low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) has been confirmed in a commercial turkey flock in Stanislaus County, California. According to a press release from the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), the affected flock did not show notable signs of avian influenza, but as a part of proactive flock healthcare, the company
- [IPPE 2019 Registration Now Open](https://unitedegg.com/ippe-2019-registration-now-open/) - Online registration for IPPE is now open. UEP Members interested in reserving a room in the UEP block at the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel, please email Audrey Wierson at awierson@unitedegg.com. Please include all the following information in the email: dates accommodations are needed, credit card number, name on card, billing address, card expiration date, and
- [Festive Activities Planned for 50th Anniversary Celebration](https://unitedegg.com/festive-activities-planned-for-50th-anniversary-celebration/) - UEP’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and Annual Conference in Maui is less than a month away! The Grand Wailea Resort, untouched by Hurricane Lane, is ready to welcome over 500 UEP members and guests. Get ready for some special activities planned as part of the celebration. The festivities will begin with an authentic Hawaiian Luau on
- [Olympic Gold Medalist to Speak at UEP Annual Conference](https://unitedegg.com/olympic-gold-medalist-to-speak-at-uep-annual-conference/) - Joey Cheek, Olympic champion, philanthropist, and entrepreneur will be the keynote speaker at UEP’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and Annual Conference next month in Maui. Cheek, in an amazing speed skating performance, won both gold and silver medals at the Olympic games in Torino, Italy, and became World Sprint Champion joining Americans Eric Heiden and Dan
- [UEP Certified Update](https://unitedegg.com/uep-certified-update/) - Over 50 percent of the audits are completed for 2018, with over 30 percent of the Program Participants already meeting all requirements for recertification. There are still many audits to be done between now and the end of October when all audits are due. Please note the following: Companies utilizing a UEP audit will not
- [Record Attendance at Area Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/record-attendance-at-area-briefings/) - There was a record turnout at the Area Briefings with over 360 people representing 71 UEP member companies. A majority of Allied members also attended the meetings. Thank you to all who came to the meetings to receive important industry updates. UEP President and CEO, Chad Gregory started the briefings with an overview of several
- [Get Ready for Maui](https://unitedegg.com/get-ready-for-maui/) - UEP’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and Annual Meeting in Maui is just six weeks away! The Grand Wailea Resort, untouched by Hurricane Lane, is ready and waiting to welcome over 500 UEP members and guests. Below are some reminders and travel tips. All attendees should have received the following: A confirmation email from the hotel
- [Industry News 9/6/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-9-6-18/) - Politico provides the latest update on the farm bill in “New CBO scores on farm bill could be key.” “UEP president addresses industry shift to cage-free,” reports Chad Gregory’s comments on the transition to cage-free production during the Des Moines Area Briefing published in WattAg. UEP Member, Midwest Poultry is featured in “Farmers Open the
- [World Egg Day is October 12](https://unitedegg.com/world-egg-day-is-october-12/) - “Protein for Life” is the theme for this year’s World Egg Day which takes place on October 12. The global campaign will focus on the crucial role that eggs play during each stage of our lives – before birth to age 100+. International Egg Commission CEO Julian Madeley, explains the objectives of this year’s
- [WOTUS New Rule Continues to Move Forward](https://unitedegg.com/wotus-new-rule-continues-to-move-forward/) - Progress continues to be made in D.C. by U.S. EPA to craft a new rule defining what is a Water of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. That said, there are many actions happening simultaneously that are not in coordination with each other, and even in direct conflict. Last month a federal
- [14 Additional Cases of Newcastle Detected in California](https://unitedegg.com/14-additional-cases-of-newcastle-detected-in-california/) - Bird owners in Southern California are responding to government officials’ requests related to virulent Newcastle disease (vND) and have reported sick birds. Samples from the flocks, which experienced increased mortality, were tested at the California Animal Health & Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS). The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services
- [Ag Associations Encourage Support for King Amendment](https://unitedegg.com/ag-associations-encourage-support-for-king-amendment/) - On August 31, the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Feed Industry Association, National Association of Egg Farmers, National Chicken Council and National Pork Producers Council sent a letter to Senator Roberts and Senator Stabenow urging support for the “Protect Interstate Commerce Act” (PICA) amendment in the Farm Bill authored by Rep. Steve King. Their letter
- [UEP President Addresses Industry Shift to Cage-Free](https://unitedegg.com/uep-president-addresses-industry-shift-to-cage-free/) - Published by WattAgNet.com, By Devon King Chad Gregory discusses if he believes the industry will go cage-free by 2025 pledge dates. “We can’t speculate at this time when and how transition commitments will occur,” he said. Based on producers’ trends and consumers demands a year ago, he explained how he thought the transition to cage-free
- [Industry News 8/16/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-8-16-18/) - Feedstuffs published a commentary based on recent data on foodborne outbreaks in “CDC posts top foodborne outbreak winners.” “WHO seeks to expand international use of whole genome-sequencing,” summarizes the World Health Organization’s efforts to increase the speed of disease detection using whole genome sequencing (WGS). Published in Food Safety News, the article also acknowledges the
- [3 EU Countries Recall Eggs Due to Salmonella](https://unitedegg.com/3-eu-countries-recall-eggs-due-to-salmonella/) - Excerpt from Food Safety News, August 11, 2018 Salmonella in eggs has led to separate recalls in three European countries in a timely reminder for vigilance after a recent rise in infections from the pathogen ended a decade of decline. Alerts were made in Germany, Italy, and Malta but no illnesses have been reported. The
- [Jury Award Increases in 3rd North Carolina Nuisance Lawsuit](https://unitedegg.com/jury-award-increases-in-3rd-north-carolina-nuisance-lawsuit/) - In early August, the third nuisance trial against Smithfield Foods ended with the jury awarding $473.5 million to six neighbors of a Smithfield-associated farm. The jury awarded $23.5 million in compensatory damages and $450 million punitive damages. Given state laws that limit punitive damages, this will be reduced to a total of $94 million. This
- [EPA Final Rule Excluding CAFOs from Emissions Reporting](https://unitedegg.com/epa-final-rule-excluding-cafos-from-emissions-reporting/) - U.S. EPA followed through on its commitment to issue a rulemaking clarifying that CAFOs need not report their emissions of ammonia and other substances under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) or Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) statutes. UEP has been working to resolve CERCLA-EPCRA reporting matters for more
- [Senate Names Farm Bill Conferees](https://unitedegg.com/senate-names-farm-bill-conferees/) - On July 31 the Senate voted to move to conference on the farm bill by a voice vote. Following the vote, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer named nine members as conferees to the 2018 farm bill debate. Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS) Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) Sen. John Boozman
- [APHIS Finalizes Conditions for Paying Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Indemnity](https://unitedegg.com/aphis-finalizes-conditions-for-paying-highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-indemnity/) - USDA APHIS, Last Modified: Aug 14, 2018 August 14, 2018, Washington D.C. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is issuing a final rule outlining the conditions under which USDA will pay indemnity to farms affected by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). It includes updates to USDA’s February 2016
- [Area Briefings - Speakers on Egg Safety and Plant Sanitation on Agenda](https://unitedegg.com/area-briefings-speakers-on-egg-safety-and-plant-sanitation-on-agenda/) - Area Briefings will begin the week of August 20 with an agenda packed with relevant material and subject-matter experts. Please plan on attending one of these important meetings, along with your company’s production, processing and sanitation managers. This is a unique opportunity to receive the latest industry updates and network with industry experts and peers.
- [Industry News 7/26/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-7-26-18/) - "Billions in trade aid for farmers coming soon," covers the Trump Administration’s plan to aid farmers impacted by the trade wars and also discusses Senate selections for the farm bill conference committee. Harvard Health reports “Eggs might help your heart, not harm it,” reports on two recent studies that found eggs may protect against heart
- [2018 Animal Rights National Conference](https://unitedegg.com/2018-animal-rights-national-conference/) - A recent Animal Ag Alliance press release provides detailed information about the Animal Rights National Conference, held June 28 through July 1 in Los Angeles. The report states, “Speakers at the conference made it clear that their objective is the liberation of animals, not enhancing animal welfare,” as evidenced by quotes from several speakers. Click
- [Acting Administrator Wheeler Codifies Latest Animal Waste Report Exemptions Under CERCLA](https://unitedegg.com/acting-administrator-wheeler-codifies-latest-animal-waste-report-exemptions-under-cercla/) - WASHINGTON (July 24, 2018) – Yesterday, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler signed a final rule that made changes in regulations to conform to the FARM Act. The final rule also removes the regulatory text of EPA’s 2008 rule that provided an exemption to farms from reporting. “EPA is taking action to
- [UEP Hosts State Egg Executive Roundtable](https://unitedegg.com/uep-hosts-state-egg-executive-roundtable/) - State association executives gathered in Chicago for a leadership roundtable to discuss important issues facing the egg industry on July 17. Chad Gregory kicked off the meeting with a UEP update on general industry activities, challenges and opportunities. He provided an update on animal welfare and state laws and initiatives related to hen housing. Oscar
- [Registration Open for Area Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/registration-open-for-area-briefings/) - Experts to Speak on Egg Safety and Plant Sanitation United Egg Producers will focus this year’s Area Briefings on egg safety and plant sanitation. At the Legislative Meeting in Washington, D.C. in May, the UEP Board directed staff to develop and present egg safety and plant sanitation information to the full membership focusing the delivery
- [Statement on Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Programs](https://unitedegg.com/2647-2/) - Statement on Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Programs Washington, D.C. – July 18, 2018 – America’s farmers, ranchers, and veterinarians applaud the overwhelming passage by the House of a motion to instruct House members on the conference committee considering the 2018 Farm Bill to back permanent, mandatory baseline funding for Animal Disease Preparedness and Response
- [Must Read New 1/25/18](https://unitedegg.com/must-read-new-1-25-18/) - A variety of egg and poultry topics were covered by a wide range of media outlets recently. Politico provides ongoing updates on the development of the new Farm Bill. An articles this week focused on the cost: “Conaway awaits farm bill price tag.” An editorial in Ag Week “Farm bill provisions for food animal disease
- [Area Briefings to Focus on Egg Safety and Plant Sanitation](https://unitedegg.com/area-briefings-to-focus-on-egg-safety-and-plant-sanitation/) - UEP members will not want to miss the Area Briefings this year. At the May meeting in D.C., during the discussions on the egg recall, members requested additional educational opportunities. This year, UEP will be moving away from the usual area briefings format, so that the majority of the meeting can focus on egg safety,
- [Wheeler Named Acting EPA Administrator](https://unitedegg.com/wheeler-named-acting-epa-administrator/) - Announcement follows Pruitt resignation. Andrew Wheeler has been appointed Acting EPA Administrator following Scott Pruitt’s July 5 resignation. Wheeler was confirmed by the Senate as Deputy Administrator in April and has been rumored for months as Pruitt’s replacement. Trump has not formally nominated Wheeler for the Administrator position and he can serve in an acting
- [North Carolina Legislators Protect Animal Agriculture](https://unitedegg.com/north-carolina-legislators-protect-animal-agriculture/) - On June 27 Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of the North Carolina Farm Act of 2018 was overridden by the North Carolina General Assembly. Restricting nuisance lawsuits, the updated Farm Act requires action be filed within one year of the establishment of the agriculture or forestry operation or within one year of the operation undergoing a
- [Industry News 7/12/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-7-12-18/) - On July 9 the Trump administration announced additional tariffs on Chinese goods. CNBC reports China’s response in “China reportedly looks to ‘hit back in other ways’ in response to latest US tariffs.” “Top food safety officials tell IAFP audience pathogens don’t wait,” provides a recap of the comments made by FDA Deputy Commissioner Steven Ostroff
- [Future Leaders Participants Comment on the Conference](https://unitedegg.com/future-leaders-participants-comment-on-the-conference/) - “Attending UEP's Future Leader's Conference was an incredible opportunity, and I am thankful for the many sponsors who made it possible. The exposure to real-time politics that relate to our industry was eye-opening and motivational.” “My first time to our nation's capital was exciting and educational thanks to the great program that UEP put together.
- [Farm Bill Passes Senate and Moves to Conference](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill-passes-senate-and-moves-to-conference/) - On June 28, the Senate passed its version of the 2018 farm bill by an 86-11 vote. With the passage of both the House and Senate farm bills, Congress now heads to conference to reconcile any legislative differences. Both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees will spend the next two to three weeks preparing for
- [Industry News 6/28/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-6-28-18/) - The Egg Industry Center announced three grants totaling $213,000, bringing the total funding for egg research to $1 million since 2013. Read about the latest grant recipients at “Egg Industry Center awards $1M in funding,” from Poultry World. Poultry World provides a summary of the five top companies working on gender identification in “Egg sexing
- [Europe Deals with Salmonella and Fipronil Issues Again](https://unitedegg.com/europe-deals-with-salmonella-and-fipronil-issues-again/) - FarmingUK, June 21, 2018 According to information on a German Government-run site, a batch of organic eggs has been found to have been infected with Salmonella enteritidis. The recall affects 11 German states and comes after thousands of Dutch eggs were recalled in Germany because of renewed fipronil contamination. Some 73,000 Dutch eggs were withdrawn
- [President Trump Proposes Single Food Safety Agency](https://unitedegg.com/president-trump-proposes-single-food-safety-agency/) - Excerpt from Food Safety News, June 22, 2018 President Trump wants to consolidate federal food safety under a single agency, housed in the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Former President Obama also wanted to consolidate food safety, only he preferred housing it in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under the Food and
- [Harmful Algal Blooms Driving Efforts to Regulate Agriculture](https://unitedegg.com/harmful-algal-blooms-driving-efforts-to-regulate-agriculture/) - In many states there are ongoing concerns with an increasing number of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in fresh or coastal waters. One place where HABs have captured center stage in the public’s awareness, along with policymakers and the legal system, is western Lake Erie and its associated watershed, the Western Lake Erie Basin (WLEB). The
- [Final HPAI Rule Awaits OMB Clearance](https://unitedegg.com/final-hpai-rule-awaits-omb-clearance/) - The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has sent a final rule on indemnity payments for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) to the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for clearance. Among other provisions, the rule is expected to require producers to certify that they have a biosecurity plan in place to
- [Farm Bill Passes House](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill-passes-house/) - The House passed H.R. 2, the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018, on June 21st. The bill passed by a narrow margin of 213-211, with every Democrat and 20 Republicans voting against the bill. House Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway (R-TX) issued the following statement: “Today’s vote was about keeping faith with the men
- [2018 Area Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/2018-area-briefings/)
- [Industry News, June 7, 2018](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-june-7-2018/) - The USDA announced plans for the Departments of State, Agriculture, Labor, and Homeland Security to coordinate efforts to simplify the H-2A temporary agricultural visa program in the “H-2A Agricultural Worker Visa Modernization Joint Cabinet Statement.” “Infographic: 3 types of food consumers,” was presented by Frank Mitloehner, professor of air quality and extension specialist, University of California-Davis,
- [Environmental Impact of Food Production](https://unitedegg.com/environmental-impact-of-food-production/) - A recently published article in Science discussing the environmental impact of food is being used by activist groups to push a vegan agenda. The authors of the article conducted a meta-analysis utilizing data from over 500 published articles. The research is heavily represented by studies done in Western Europe, where environmental impact studies are more
- [Senate Ag Committee Moves Toward Farm Bill Markup](https://unitedegg.com/senate-ag-committee-moves-toward-farm-bill-markup/) - The Senate Agriculture Committee continued work behind closed doors on its version of the 2018 farm bill. Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS) expects the bill markup to take place on June 13. Based on reports from Senate offices about the level of detail, this seems an ambitious timetable. But, many observers think the committee will act
- [Protect Your Farm Against Animal Activists](https://unitedegg.com/protect-your-farm-against-animal-activists/) - Before an undercover activist strikes: be smart and do the right thing. Over the past two decades, livestock and poultry farms across the United States have been under siege by animal activist groups advancing their vegan agenda. These groups have resorted to getting undercover workers hired at local farms, where they then work for extended
- [Animal Activist Activity Expected to Increase](https://unitedegg.com/animal-activist-activity-expected-to-increase/) - Success of recent protest in California may motivate others On May 29, hundreds of animal activists, led by the group Direct Action Everywhere, forced their way onto a laying farm in California. The activists utilized the Animal Liberation Conference, which was being held nearby, to recruit participants and ensure details of their plan remained relatively
- [Members Advocate for Egg Farmers During Hill Visits](https://unitedegg.com/members-advocate-for-egg-farmers-during-hill-visits/) - UEP members met in person with their elected officials and staff during the UEP Legislative Meeting last week. “Farmers are their own best lobbyists,” said Randy Green, UEP’s D.C. consultant. “There is nothing more effective than a member of Congress hearing directly from his or her own constituents. UEP members once again did a
- [USDA Halts Plans for Organic Checkoff](https://unitedegg.com/usda-halts-plans-for-organic-checkoff/) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it will not implement a research and promotion (“checkoff”) program for certified organic products. USDA cited “lack of consensus within the industry” as its primary reason for not moving forward. The Organic Trade Association was the main proponent of an organic checkoff, and USDA issued a proposed rule on
- [Inspire PR Group Wins at Central Ohio PRism Awards](https://unitedegg.com/inspire-pr-group-wins-at-central-ohio-prism-awards/) - Two state egg associations, in partnership with UEP’s PR firm – Inspire PR Group, won big at the Public Relations Society of America’s Central Ohio Chapter’s PRism Awards ceremony held May 17 in Columbus, Ohio. The annual event for the PR industry honors exceptional public relations activities from a diverse mix of businesses, industries and
- [Regulatory Updates 5/24/18](https://unitedegg.com/regulatory-updates-5-24-18/) - FDA Denies Petition on Trans Fats The Food and Drug Administration rejected a petition from the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) that sought to permit some continued use of partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), the primary source for industrial trans fatty acids. GMA asked to continue using PHOs in some food manufacturing processes, but FDA is maintaining
- [Animal Welfare Tops American Interests](https://unitedegg.com/animal-welfare-tops-american-interests/) - A recent study, the Causes Americans Care About, has placed animal welfare as the number-one cause of interest to Americans followed by children’s education, hunger, disease research and disaster relief. In this third year of the study, environment was displaced to sixth place. While it is recognized that saying one cares and real action are
- [Emissions Factors from NAEMS Data](https://unitedegg.com/emissions-factors-from-naems-data/) - Process Moving Forward Again Under UEP Review Remember the National Air Emissions Monitoring Study (NAEMS), U.S. EPA’s work to generate emissions estimation methodologies (EEMs) from that data, and the 2600 Air Consent Agreements (ACA) involving almost 14,000 animal agriculture farms? After being delayed since 2010 due to lawsuits and some ill-informed objections to the use
- [Newcastle Disease Found in Exhibition Chickens in California](https://unitedegg.com/newcastle-disease-found-in-exhibition-chickens-in-californ/) - The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of virulent Newcastle disease in a small flock of backyard exhibition chickens in Los Angeles County, California. It is important to note that the presence of the disease is not a food safety concern. This is the first
- [Capitol Tour, Unique Events on Agenda for Future Leaders](https://unitedegg.com/capitol-tour-unique-events-on-agenda-for-future-leaders/) - Take a private tour of the Capitol, see famous Monuments and Memorials on a Segway Tour, visit and lunch with regulatory officials and meet with Congressional representatives. These are just a few of the special events planned for the Future Leader’s Conference, June 11-14, in Washington, D.C. There is just one space left for this
- [House Farm Bill Fails Due to Unrelated Immigration Skirmish](https://unitedegg.com/house-farm-bill-fails-due-to-unrelated-immigration-skirmish/) - House Agriculture Chairman Mike Conaway took H.R. 2, the 2018 Farm Bill, to the House floor last week, but the five-year, $867 billion bill was rejected in a 198-213 vote. After two hearings, the House Rules Committee cleared 31 amendments to be considered on the House floor. One amendment from Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC) has
- [Egg Farmer-Chefs Share Omelet Skills on Capitol Hill](https://unitedegg.com/egg-farmer-chefs-share-omelet-skills-on-capitol-hill/) - Congressmen and staffers received hands-on chef training at the traditional omelet lunch on May 17. UEP farmer-members, staff and allied industry representatives coached the attendees on the art of cooking the eggs, filling, and successfully folding and flipping their omelets. Representative Mike Conaway (Texas), chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, stopped by to thank UEP
- [Notable Speakers Address Industry Challenges](https://unitedegg.com/notable-speakers-address-industry-challenges/) - Two senators and high-ranking representatives from the EPA, FDA and USDA spoke about key issues. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt discussed CERCLA-EPCRA reporting and other issues in an informal question-and-answer session, facilitated by UEP President Chad Gregory. Pruitt answered questions about the new Water of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule which is expected to be proposed by
- [Good News About Eggs for Diabetics](https://unitedegg.com/good-news-about-eggs-for-diabetics/) - A new study found no connection between a high-egg diet and risk factors for cardiovascular disease among people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Some experts have advised people with T2D to limit egg consumption. However, the study examined people in this population on a diet of at least 12 eggs per week and
- [USDA Publishes Proposed Rule on GMO Disclosure](https://unitedegg.com/usda-publishes-proposed-rule-on-gmo-disclosure/) - USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has published a proposed rule to implement the bioengineered foods disclosure standard. This 2016 law requires food manufacturers to disclose ingredients that are bioengineered – which AMS abbreviates “BE” but means the same thing as the more common term “genetically engineered” or “GMO.” The proposed regulation, open for comment
- [New EPA Guidance:  CERCLA’s Exclusion Also Includes EPCRA](https://unitedegg.com/new-epa-guidance-cerclas-exclusion-also-includes-epcra/) - Congress included the Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act in this spring’s Omnibus 2018 Appropriations bill to change CERCLA* to exclude manure’s air emissions from the Act’s federal reporting requirements. In a surprise development, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has concluded that the FARM Act extends beyond CERCLA to include EPCRA* reporting. The EPA
- [Thank You 50th Anniversary Annual Meeting Sponsors!](https://unitedegg.com/thank-you-50th-anniversary-annual-meeting-sponsors/) - Thank you to the following companies that are sponsors for UEP’s 50th Anniversary meeting in Maui. UEP appreciates your support!
- [Staff News](https://unitedegg.com/staff-news/) - UEP President Chad Gregory and VP of Food Safety Oscar Garrison attended the Urner Barry Executive Conference that was held April 29 to May 1 in Las Vegas. Oscar Garrison presented a case study, “How Fipronil Contamination was Averted in the US,” at the Food Safety Summit on May 8 in Chicago. Garrison attended AEB’s
- [Industry Watch 5/10/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-watch-5-10-18/) - Daily coverage of the Farm Bill continues with “Farm bill in trouble?” published today in Politico. Coverage of USDA Under Secretary Ted McKinney’s presentation to the 2018 Animal Agriculture Alliance Stakeholders Summit was covered in “USDA under secretary: Tell the truth about agriculture,” in WattAG. “Rapid grant marked for avian flu preparedness,” about the development
- [Regulatory Updates 5/10/18](https://unitedegg.com/regulatory-updates-5-10-18/) - USDA Publishes Proposed Rule on GMO Disclosure USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has published a proposed rule to implement the bioengineered foods disclosure standard. This 2016 law requires food manufacturers to disclose ingredients that are bioengineered – which AMS abbreviates “BE” but means the same thing as the more common term “genetically engineered” or “GMO.”
- [EFSA Published Report on Fipronil in Eggs](https://unitedegg.com/efsa-published-report-on-fipronil-in-eggs/) - The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has released the report from its investigation into the discovery of fipronil in eggs last summer. Member states submitted more than 5,000 samples for analysis to the EFSA between September 1 and November 30, 2017. Results showed 742 samples containing quantities of fipronil related substances in excess of legal
- [Agriculture Appropriations Bill Markup this Week](https://unitedegg.com/agriculture-appropriations-bill-markup-this-week/) - The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture marked up the Fiscal Year 2019 Agriculture Appropriations Bill on Wednesday, May 9. The Agriculture Appropriations Bill funds important agricultural and food programs and services to support animal and plant health programs, agricultural trade, rural development, and nutrition programs. Legislation provides funding for the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service
- [Outstanding Speakers and VIPs Confirmed for D.C. Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/outstanding-speakers-and-vips-confirmed-for-d-c-meeting/) - UEP is proud to announce a powerful lineup of speakers and VIPs that will be part of its annual Legislative Board Meeting in May in Washington, D.C. Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) – Member of House Committee on Agriculture and Chair of Subcommittee on Nutrition Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) – Ranking Member of Senate Agriculture
- [Industry Watch 4/26/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-watch-4-26-18/) - In addition to the egg recall, cage-free housing and the resulting controversies continue in the news. Four UEP members who served on a panel at the Egg Industry Center’s Issues Forum are mentioned in “Cage-free egg production requires 3 to 5 times more labor,” published in WattAgNet. UEP’s VP of Food Safety, Oscar Garrison is
- [USDA Not Likely to Meet Deadline for GMO Disclosure](https://unitedegg.com/usda-not-likely-to-meet-deadline-for-gmo-disclosure/) - Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue acknowledged this week during an interview with the National Association of Farm Broadcasting that his agency will probably not meet a Congressionally-imposed deadline for finalizing rules on how food manufacturers must disclose genetically modified organism (GMO) ingredients. Under the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard, enacted in 2016, the United States Department
- [Work Continues on New WOTUS Rule](https://unitedegg.com/work-continues-on-new-wotus-rule/) - U.S. EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers are preparing to issue a "supplemental” proposed rule intended to solidify the record and reasoning behind their 2017 repeal of the 2015 (Obama-era) Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule. The 2015 rule is considerably overbroad in its reach and interpretation of what waterways are covered by the
- [National Egg Products School](https://unitedegg.com/national-egg-products-school/) - Registration continues for the National Egg Products School, sponsored by the University of Georgia Department of Poultry Science and the American Egg Board. This biennial, four-day event focuses on eggs and egg products. This year’s school will take place September 10-13 in Athens, GA. Register here. During the event, participants will receive a thorough introduction
- [AEB Consumer Confidence Survey](https://unitedegg.com/aeb-consumer-confidence-survey/) - Recently the American Egg Board (AEB) commissioned a survey to measure consumers’ attitudes towards egg safety and awareness of the egg recall. Methodology Online survey of 1,078 nationally representative Americans. Survey fielded on April 19, 2018, by YouGov, on behalf of AEB. Margin of error is +/-3%. Headlines Many Americans (42%) have seen egg news
- [Four Spaces Remain for Future Leaders Conference](https://unitedegg.com/four-spaces-remain-for-future-leaders-conference/) - Just four spaces remain for the UEP Future Leaders Conference on June 11-14 in Washington, D.C. UEP members wishing to participate are encouraged to register immediately. Hotel reservations must be booked through the registration link. The Future Leaders program provides unique training and mentoring opportunities for the next generation of egg community leaders – those
- [Farm Bill Approved by House Agriculture Committee](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill-approved-by-house-agriculture-committee/) - Earlier this month, the House Agriculture Committee released its draft of the 2018 Farm Bill. The bill includes support for animal health, food safety, and market access programs for farmers. Throughout the Farm Bill process, UEP and the Animal Ag Coalition have expressed the need for support for animal health and disease prevention programs. Currently,
- [Rose Acre Voluntary Recall](https://unitedegg.com/rose-acre-voluntary-recall/) - On April 13, Rose Acre Farms voluntarily recalled over 200 million eggs from its Hyde County farm in North Carolina due to a possible Salmonella Braenderup contamination. Based on reports to the CDC, 22 people have fallen ill to a “unique” strain of Salmonella Braenderup between November 2017 and March 2018. Eight of the ill individuals reported
- [Iowa Egg Bill Signed into Law](https://unitedegg.com/iowa-egg-bill-signed-into-law/) - Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed House File 2408, known as the conventional egg bill, on March 21. The law, passed by both the Iowa House and Senate with high majorities, 81-17 and 31-17 respectively, will become effective July 1, 2018. The final version of the bill requires retailers participating in the federal supplemental food program
- [Arizona Senate Approves Extending Egg Expiration Date](https://unitedegg.com/arizona-senate-approves-extending-egg-expiration-date/) - With a unanimous vote, the Arizona senate approved HB 2464 extending the date from 24 days to 45 days that Grade A eggs can remain available for sale after candled. Grade AA eggs will continue to carry a sell by date not more than 24 days after candled. According to the sponsor, Representative Jill Norgaard,
- [APHIS Proposes NPIP Changes](https://unitedegg.com/aphis-proposes-npip-changes/) - The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has proposed changes to National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) regulations that the agency says will update and clarify several provisions including “NPIP participation, voting requirements, testing procedures, and standards.” The proposal is open for a 30-day comment period. Voting delegates to the 2016 NPIP Biennial Conference approved
- [Trade Actions with China](https://unitedegg.com/trade-actions-with-china/) - In early March, the Trump administration announced a 25 percent tariff on steel and a 10 percent tariff on aluminum imports from all countries except Canada and Mexico. Exceptions to the tariffs were subsequently granted to several countries. The tariffs clearly targeted China, which produces about half of the world’s steel. On April 2, China
- [UEP Communicates LPAI Challenges at APHIS Meeting](https://unitedegg.com/uep-communicates-lpai-challenges-at-aphis-meeting/) - More than 120 people attended the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) meeting on Low Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (LPAI) on March 27 in Atlanta. The agency sought feedback as to the feasibility and impact of proposed policies and strategy changes. The central focus of this meeting was to discuss proposed policy changes related
- [Funding for Pest and Disease Prevention in Farm Bill Draft](https://unitedegg.com/funding-for-pest-and-disease-prevention-in-farm-bill-draft/) - The House Agriculture Committee released its draft of the 2018 Farm Bill today. The bill will go through a committee mark up next week and then go to the floor two weeks later. UEP’s efforts, alongside the Animal Agriculture Coalition, to push mandatory funding for USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has paid
- [Industry News 4/12/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-news-4-12-18/) - “Biosecurity and surveillance in times of avian influenza,” published by Poultry World, discusses the important of biosecurity standards and provides processes required for a successful biosecurity plan. Legislators proposing making it unlawful to use cages in egg production, “Rhode Island considers anti-animal confinement bill,” published in WattAG. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS)
- [UEP Urges Dietary Guidelines Focus on Healthy Foods](https://unitedegg.com/uep-urges-dietary-guidelines-focus-on-healthy-foods/) - Brain and cognitive health, along with a focus on foods that supply essential nutrients, should be the focus of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, UEP said in comments to the federal agencies developing the guidance. For the first time, the 2020 guidance will offer advice for infants and toddlers – the “birth-to-24-months” or “B-24”
- [National Egg Products School Opens Registration](https://unitedegg.com/national-egg-products-school-opens-registration/) - The National Egg Products School, sponsored by the University of Georgia, Department of Poultry Science and the American Egg Board, is a biennial, four-day school focusing on eggs and egg products. This year’s school will take place September 10-13, 2018, in Athens, GA. Click here to register. Participants will receive a thorough introduction to eggs
- [Ten Spaces Remain for Future Leaders Conference](https://unitedegg.com/ten-spaces-remain-for-future-leaders-conference/) - Just ten spaces remain for the UEP Future Leaders Conference June 11 -14 in Washington D.C. UEP members wishing to participate are encouraged to register immediately. Hotel reservations must be booked through the registration link. The Future Leaders program provides unique training and mentoring opportunities for the next generation of egg community leaders – those
- [Distinguished Speakers Confirmed for Legislative Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/distinguished-speakers-confirmed-for-legislative-meetings/) - UEP is pleased to announce the following speakers for the May Legislative meetings in Washington, D.C. Greg Ibach, Under Secretary, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Marketing and Regulatory Programs In his role as the Under Secretary, Mr. Ibach carries out the MRP mission area’s broad task of facilitating domestic and international marketing of U.S. agricultural products and ensuring
- [CERCLA Exemption Signed into Law](https://unitedegg.com/cercla-exemption-signed-into-law/) - On March 23, President Trump signed the 2018 Omnibus Appropriations bill into law. The FARM (Fair Agricultural Reporting Measures) Act was included in the $1.3 trillion bipartisan 2018 Omnibus Appropriations package agreed to by House and Senate leaders and the Trump Administration. The legislation reverses a federal circuit court ruling from last year and limits
- [United Egg Producers Praise Passage of 2018 Omnibus Appropriations Bill and FARM Act](https://unitedegg.com/united-egg-producers-praise-passage-of-2018-omnibus-appropriations-bill-and-farm-act/) - The below statement is attributable to Chad Gregory, President and CEO, United Egg Producers, regarding the 2018 omnibus appropriations bill signed into law by President Trump, which includes a landmark measure that restores the Bush- and Obama-era exemptions for reporting on-farm emissions from manure. The Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act contains a statutory measure
- [Poultry Industry Hails Passage of CERCLA Reporting Exemptions in Omnibus](https://unitedegg.com/poultry-industry-hails-passage-of-cercla-reporting-exemptions-in-omnibus/) - U.S. poultry and egg producers praised Congress for passing legislation that provides farmers relief from federal emergency response laws that were never intended to apply to routine, non-emergency farming and ranching activities. Included in the omnibus government spending packaging approved by Congress was the Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act. The legislation reverses a
- [Foster Farms Ruled Responsible in Salmonella Case](https://unitedegg.com/foster-farms-ruled-responsible-in-salmonella-case/) - Earlier this month an Arizona federal court jury returned a $6.5 million verdict in favor of a five-and-a-half-year-old child who suffered a brain injury in 2013 because of a Salmonella Heidelberg infection allegedly from chicken produced by Foster Poultry Farms. Significant aspects of this case include the following: The US Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) does not consider Salmonellaan
- [2017 Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare](https://unitedegg.com/2017-business-benchmark-on-farm-animal-welfare/) - An Introduction to the Report The sixth annual Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare (BBFAW) was released February 22, 2018. This report is supported by founding partners, Compassion in World Farming and World Animal Protection, both animal activist organizations, and Coller Capital, a global private equity fund with an estimated $17 billion in assets under
- [USDA Announces Regionalization Agreement with South Korea to Help Protect U.S. Trade During HPAI Detections](https://unitedegg.com/usda-announces-regionalization-agreement-with-south-korea-to-help-protect-u-s-trade-during-hpai-detections/) - WASHINGTON, March 15, 2018 – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced an agreement with the government of South Korea that significantly reduces negative impacts on trade should another detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) occur in the United States. The agreement will allow for trade restrictions at the state level, instead
- [Farm Bill Markup Delayed](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill-markup-delayed/) - The House Agriculture Committee’s markup of the 2018 Farm Bill has been delayed until after Congress’s Easter recess. Republicans and Democrats on the normally bipartisan panel are at odds over potential cuts in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Committee Democrats are demanding to see the bill’s text and related documents, saying that all of them,
- [Washington D.C. Meeting Hotel Deadline is April 10](https://unitedegg.com/washington-d-c-meeting-hotel-deadline-is-april-10/) - UEP and UEA members planning on attending the Annual Legislative Meetings, May 16-18, need to register as soon as possible. The hotel room deadline is April 10. The meetings will be held, at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. All members are encouraged to attend and meet with Senators, Representatives and congressional
- [Statement of NCFC President Chuck Conner on Section 199A Provisions in the Omnibus Appropriations Bill](https://unitedegg.com/statement-of-ncfc-president-chuck-conner-on-section-199a-provisions-in-the-omnibus-appropriations-bill/) - Washington, D.C. (March 21, 2018)–“I would like to commend congressional leadership for inclusion of provisions to address the marketplace impacts of Section 199A of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in the omnibus government funding package unveiled today. “These provisions will accomplish the goal that NCFC and our member co-ops set out at the beginning of the tax
- [APHIS Stakeholder Meeting on March 27 in Atlanta](https://unitedegg.com/aphis-stakeholder-meeting-march-27-atlanta/) - USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has announced a meeting, Low Pathogenicity Avian Influenza: A Discussion with Stakeholders. This will be held on Tuesday, March 27, 2018, from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at the Atlanta Airport Marriott. During the meeting, APHIS personnel will provide the rationale behind its Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza
- [LPAI Found in Texas and Missouri](https://unitedegg.com/lpai-found-in-texas-and-missouri/) - Low-path avian influenza (LPAI) has been detected at a commercial broiler breeder farm in Hopkins County, Texas. This latest detection of H7N1 is the second in 2018. The H7N1 virus was discovered during routine, pre-slaughter testing and surveillance for H5/H7 avian influenza strains. Roughly 24,000 birds at the farm were exposed. Reports of slightly increased
- [Registration is Open for 2018 UEP Future Leaders](https://unitedegg.com/registration-is-open-for-2018-uep-future-leaders/) - UEP is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2018 UEP Future Leaders Conference. The 2018 event will be June 11-14 – earlier in the summer and in a new location, the historic and powerful Washington D.C. Space is limited to 40 attendees, so please complete registration as soon as possible. Hotel
- [CERCLA Exemption in 2018 Omnibus Appropriations](https://unitedegg.com/cercla-exemption-in-2018-omnibus-appropriations/) - Animal agriculture efforts to eliminate CERCLA’s requirement that manure air emissions be federally reported took a giant and decisive step forward late yesterday. The FARM (Fair Agricultural Reporting Measures) Act was included in the $1.3 trillion bipartisan 2018 Omnibus Appropriations package agreed to by House and Senate leaders and the Trump Administration. That Omnibus package
- [UEP Releases Food Safety Videos](https://unitedegg.com/uep-releases-food-safety-videos/) - Safe, Nutritious Eggs highlights the journey of an egg from hen to home, emphasizing egg safety as a top priority for egg farmers Safe Eggs, Healthy Hens showcases the processes egg farmers put in place to prevent disease and ensure safe, wholesome eggs. All egg farmers are invited to share these videos with customers,
- [Dietary Guidelines Process Begins](https://unitedegg.com/dietary-guidelines-process-begins/) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture unveiled a list of scientific questions that will be used to develop the next set of Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), and asked the public to comment, in what USDA and the Department of Health and Human Services called an effort at greater “transparency” in developing the government’s official eating
- [Congress Adds Momentum to Restoring CERCLA Exemptions](https://unitedegg.com/congress-adds-momentum-restoring-cercla-exemptions/) - Bi-partisan House bill advances commonsense exemption to on-farm emissions from manure March 14, 2018 – WASHINGTON, DC – With a federal court order in six weeks set to impose a massive reporting deadline on farmers, the National Turkey Federation, National Chicken Council, U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, and United Egg Producers applauded Wednesday’s bi-partisan House
- [The Space between Barns Affects Long-Term Insurance Costs](https://unitedegg.com/space-barns-affects-long-term-insurance-costs/) - The greater the separation between your layer houses, the better your long-term insurance costs will be. Not only will your long-term insurance costs improve, but overall insurance rates and insurability of egg production operations improve. Certain carriers have refused coverage for operations whose buildings are less than 50 feet apart. Given recent claims, we’ve seen
- [Member and Staff News 3/8/18](https://unitedegg.com/member-staff-news-3-8-18/) - Congratulations to the following UEP and UEA members who have been appointed to the American Egg Board: Karyn Kreher, Paul Sauder, Christopher Pierce, Charles (Jeff) Hardin, Alex Simpson, John Watson III, Thomas Stoller, Tim Vande Bunte, Robert Gornichec, Amos Baer, Andrew Seger, Steve George, Blair Van Zetten, Brent Nelson, Michael Sencer, Clint Hickman, Mark Oldenkamp,
- [Industry Watch 3/8/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-watch-3-8-18/) - “Iowa ensures conventional egg options at grocery stores,” provides more details on this legislation, which is now getting national attention. “Trump digs in on steel, aluminum tariffs,” published in Politico, provides lawmakers perspectives about a potential political backlash. Dr. Hongwei Xin, chair of the UEP Environmental Scientific Committee and liaison on the UEP Animal Welfare
- [You Can’t Move a Barn](https://unitedegg.com/cant-move-barn/) - But You Can Improve Your Underwriting Resume While insurers tighten their underwriting guidelines around separation between buildings, the question begs: What do we do if we have barns, manure, and processing buildings less than 50 feet apart? If your buildings have separation issues, focus on strengthening these three areas: Ignition Source Risk Management Spread Prevention
- [Garrison Visits New FSNS Lab](https://unitedegg.com/garrison-visits-new-fsns-lab/) - Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) has opened its most recent, state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for the food and consumables industry in the Atlanta area. FSNS can conduct all microbiological tests, plus allergen detection, wet chemistry and product evaluation for the food industry. Within the laboratory is a 50-seat theater for FSNS education classes, training and UEP member
- [The Question of Color](https://unitedegg.com/the-question-of-color/) - A recent article in the HuffPost, The real reason brown eggs are more expensive than white eggs, serves as a reminder of the knowledge gap that exists for many consumers regarding egg carton labels and basic egg facts. Many topics that seem “basic knowledge” for those in the industry, like chickens have ear lobes and
- [Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Muddy Trade Picture](https://unitedegg.com/steel-aluminum-tariffs-muddy-trade-picture/) - President Trump said he will impose tariffs of 25 percent on steel imports and 10 percent on aluminum imports on national-security grounds. Agricultural exporters fear their products could be targets for retaliation. Late in the week, the president tweeted that “trade wars are good, and easy to win,” suggesting he will be undeterred by farm-state
- [Registration Open for 2018 UEP Washington, DC Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/registration-open-2018-uep-washington-dc-meetings/) - Registration is now open for UEP’s Annual Legislative Meetings, May 16 - May 18, at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C. All members are encouraged to attend and meet with Senators, Representatives and congressional staff and to present UEP’s position papers on egg production issues. The Issues Briefings will begin at 12:30 pm
- [Avian Influenza Update](https://unitedegg.com/avian-influenza-update/) - H7 LPAI in Missouri The National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) confirmed a case of H7 presumptive LPAI in Jasper County, Missouri in a commercial turkey premises on March 3. UEP staff began noticing changes to the Export Library on March 5 and started confirming rumors of what had occurred over the weekend. No additional cases
- [CERCLA Legislative Effort Continues, Outlook Positive but Not Certain](https://unitedegg.com/cercla-legislative-effort-continues-outlook-positive-not-certain/) - The Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act, a bill that would remove the requirement that air emissions from manure be reported to federal authorities from CERCLA (the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act), has been introduced in the Senate as S. 2421. Senators Deb Fischer and Joe Donnelly lead a large bipartisan group of
- [Industry Watch 2/22/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-watch-2-22-18/) - The Center for Consumer Freedom (CCF) has filed friend of the court briefs in support of the states that are challenging Proposition 2 in California and AB 1437, which required eggs from all states be produced following Proposition 2 standards. Read more about this in “Consumer group backs states in egg, meal lawsuits,” in Capital
- [Washington Legislative Updates](https://unitedegg.com/washington-legislative-updates/) - President Trump Releases FY2019 Budget Proposal On Tuesday, President Trump released the fiscal year 2019 federal budget proposal. The budget’s request for the U.S. Department of Agriculture focuses on expanding agricultural production and research and proposes several expected program cuts. The budget proposal requests $19.2 billion in funding for the Department of Agriculture, a $3.5
- [Washington Regulatory Updates](https://unitedegg.com/washington-regulatory-updates/) - H-2A Applications Surge The government’s main guest-worker program saw a 17 percent increase in applications in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to a year ago. H-2A positions requested by employers reached nearly 34,000, a record for the October-December period. Some observers say the increase represents a shift away from undocumented workers in some agricultural
- [Industry Watch 2/8/18](https://unitedegg.com/industry-watch-2-8-18/) - USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue, and the resignation of Wayne Pacelle, Chief Executive of the Humane Society of the United States, have been in the news these past few days. Watt AgNet summarized USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue’s speech about regulatory reform and NAFTA in “At IPPE, USDA chief invites collaboration on regulations.” The day before speaking
- [USDA 2018 Farm Bill and Legislative Principles](https://unitedegg.com/farm-bill/) - On Wednesday, USDA released 2018 Farm Bill & Legislative Principles which outlines USDA’s support for legislation in nine areas: Farm Production and Conservation: USDA supports farm safety nets and innovative crop insurance products and changes to provide risk protection for America’s farmers. USDA also supports legislation that encourages the use of productive, fertile lands and
- [Panera Petitions FDA to Define “Egg”](https://unitedegg.com/panera-petitions-fda-define-egg/) - Panera Bread has petitioned the Food and Drug Administration to establish a clear definition for the term “egg.” In 21 CFR part 101, Food Labeling, the agency establishes how egg products are to be labeled when used as ingredient. For example, “Dried whole eggs, frozen whole eggs, and liquid whole eggs may be declared as
- [Egg Industry Mourns Jack Heavenridge and Wally Newman](https://unitedegg.com/egg-industry-mourns/) - Ohio Poultry Association (OPA) Executive Vice President Jack Heavenridge passed away December 23, 2017, in Waverly, Ohio at the age of 84. As a recognized poultry industry leader, Jack served at OPA for 25 years and was a leader and a trailblazer, guiding Ohio’s egg producers through many challenges, regulatory changes and legislative initiatives. Jack
- [Must Read News - 1/12/18](https://unitedegg.com/must-read-news/) - Several government rulings were featured prominently in the press recently. Feedstuffs reported on USDA’s proposal for further processors to develop HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points system) in “USDA proposes to amend egg product inspection regulations “which quotes Oscar Garrison, UEP’s SVP of Food Safety. USDA’s ERS (Economic Research Service) issued a report “Impacts
- [Washington D.C. Report 1/12/18](https://unitedegg.com/washington-d-c-report-1-12-18/) - Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity – Report On January 8, the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity presented a report to the President identifying legislative, regulatory, and policy changes that focus on improving the economic development and prosperity of rural America. The report outlines five major Calls to Action: Achieving e-Connectivity
- [Trump Speaks at American Farm Bureau Annual Convention](https://unitedegg.com/trump-speaks-american-farm-bureau-annual-convention/) - Chad Gregory, UEP President and CEO, attended President Donald Trump’s speech at the 2018 American Farm Bureau Annual Convention in Nashville, Tennessee on January 8. Trump outlined the benefits for farmers of the new tax bill which includes immediate equipment write offs and estate tax roll backs. He also spoke about rescinding the Waters of
- [UEP Releases Environmental Responsibility Video](https://unitedegg.com/uep-releases-environmental-responsibility-video/) - “Sustainability, Environmental Responsibility and the Progress of America’s Egg Farms”, UEP’s latest animated video, was released earlier this month. The video highlights the advancements in egg farming over the past 50 years that have led to healthier hens and a reduced environmental footprint. All egg farmers are invited to share this video with customers, elected
- [Check Out the New UEP Website](https://unitedegg.com/check-new-uep-website/) - The redesigned UnitedEgg.com, is now live! The site offers quick and easy access to comprehensive information about UEP’s programs and the issues facing egg farmers today. The News page features news releases, UEP media statements blog posts, and industry news with category and topic search functionality. New content includes Egg Facts & Stats, Resources, and
- [OIE Reports HPAI Outbreak in Netherlands](https://unitedegg.com/oie-reports-hpai-outbreak-netherlands/) - The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) received a notification from the Netherlands on December 10 of H5N6 HPAI. The fattening duck farm in Flevoland observed signs of the virus and 400 dead birds on December 7 and confirmed it the next day, resulting in 16,000 birds being destroyed. The OIE reports that on December
- [Must Read News](https://unitedegg.com/must-read-news-12-18-17/) - Articles on the Organic Rule withdrawal appeared in several major publications including the LA Times which quotes UEP, SVP Oscar Garrison. Challenges to California and Massachusetts hen housing laws were featured in US News, CBS News, Boston Globe and WattAg. “ Hawley takes another crack at the great Missouri egg case,” an editorial from the
- [Washington D.C. Report](https://unitedegg.com/washington-d-c-report-12-18-17/) - EPA Clarifies Timing on Submission of CERCLA Emissions Written Reports As reported to UEP earlier, at US EPA's request, the DC Circuit Court has delayed until January 22, 2018 the effective date of the court's April decision that will require animal operations to report their air emissions of ammonia to the federal government under CERCLA.

## Pages

- [Homepage](https://unitedegg.com/) - U.S. egg farmers working together for a sustainable, promising future in egg production.
- [Facts & Stats](https://unitedegg.com/facts-stats/) - U.S. egg production and consumption continues to rise, as measured by the federal government and industry sources.
- [UEP Certified guidelines](https://unitedegg.com/programs/uep-certified/) - Eggs from UEP Certified farms are marked with a seal, an assurance that hens are raised under rigorous standards for care.
- [Contact](https://unitedegg.com/contact/)
- [History](https://unitedegg.com/about/history/) - Established in 1968, UEP has grown to represent more than 90 percent of eggs produced in the U.S.
- [About](https://unitedegg.com/about/) - Leadership by Egg Farmers for Egg Farmers
- [HPAI Producer Resources Test page](https://unitedegg.com/hpai-producer-resources-test-page/)
- [Egg Safety](https://unitedegg.com/programs/egg-safety/) - Egg farmers are committed to ensuring the safety of eggs produced in the U.S.
- [Food Safety](https://unitedegg.com/issues-advocacy/food-safety/) - Safety of the eggs produced on U.S. farms has been, and continues to be, a top priority.
- [Avian Influenza](https://unitedegg.com/issues-advocacy/avian-influenza/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Fire Prevention and Mitigation](https://unitedegg.com/issues-advocacy/fire-prevention-and-mitigation/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Farm Bill](https://unitedegg.com/issues-advocacy/farm-bill/) - The Farm Bill is critical to ensure vibrancy and productivity in agriculture, the U.S. economy and rural communities for generations to come.
- [Environment](https://unitedegg.com/issues-advocacy/environment/) - Egg farmers understand their responsibility to properly manage resources and protect the land, air and water for their communities and future generations.
- [Labor](https://unitedegg.com/issues-advocacy/labor/) - Egg farms rely on skilled, professional laborers to care for hens, so safe, nutritious and affordable eggs are available to consumers.
- [Biosecurity](https://unitedegg.com/issues-advocacy/biosecurity/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Issues & Advocacy](https://unitedegg.com/issues-advocacy/) - The farmer-members of UEP work collaboratively to address legislative, regulatory and advocacy issues impacting egg production
- [HPAI Producer Resources](https://unitedegg.com/ai/)
- [Future Leaders](https://unitedegg.com/programs/future-leaders/) - United Egg Producers supports the next generation to become better leaders.
- [Indemnity](https://unitedegg.com/ai/indemnity/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [On-Farm Resources](https://unitedegg.com/ai/on-farm/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Biosecurity](https://unitedegg.com/ai/biosecurity/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Repopulation](https://unitedegg.com/ai/repopulation/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Permitted Movement](https://unitedegg.com/ai/permit/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Customer Communication Resources](https://unitedegg.com/ai/customer-communication-resources/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Consumer Resources](https://unitedegg.com/ai/consumer/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Depopulation and Disposal](https://unitedegg.com/ai/depopulation-and-disposal/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [Virus Elimination](https://unitedegg.com/ai/virus-elimination/) - Biosecurity has been a top priority on egg farms for decades, and efforts to prevent flocks from disease have significantly increased.
- [COVID-19 Resource Library](https://unitedegg.com/covid-19-resources/)
- [United Egg Association](https://unitedegg.com/programs/united-egg-association/) - The United Egg Association is a national trade association representing three distinct segments of the U.S. egg industry.
- [Programs](https://unitedegg.com/programs/) - UEP delivers programs to help egg farmers provide care to hens, produce high-quality eggs and be leaders in their community.
- [Government Relations](https://unitedegg.com/programs/government-relations/) - United Egg Producers provides a unified voice for egg farmers regarding legislative and regulatory issues impacting egg production.
- [Egg Terms](https://unitedegg.com/egg-terms/) - Curious about egg production lingo? Click on a term to learn what it means.
- [Resources](https://unitedegg.com/resources/)
- [Evolution of U.S. Egg Farming](https://unitedegg.com/about/evolution-of-u-s-egg-farming/) - Egg Farming: 100-Year Review
- [Privacy Policy](https://unitedegg.com/privacy-policy/)
- [Urls & Newsletter](https://unitedegg.com/urls-newsletter/)

## Staff

- [Donald F. Grady](https://unitedegg.com/staff/donald-f-grady/)
- [Nicole Nelson](https://unitedegg.com/staff/nicole-nelson/)
- [Hinda Mitchell](https://unitedegg.com/staff/hinda-mitchell/)
- [Chad Gregory](https://unitedegg.com/staff/staff-1/)
- [Dr. Larry J. Sadler](https://unitedegg.com/staff/dr-larry-j-sadler/)
- [Oscar Garrison](https://unitedegg.com/staff/oscar-garrison/)
- [Kirsten Schutt](https://unitedegg.com/staff/kirsten-schutt/)
- [Tabitha McCoy](https://unitedegg.com/staff/tabitha-mccoy/)
- [Jim Blizzard](https://unitedegg.com/staff/staff-name/)

## Glossary Posts

- [In-ovo Sexing](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/in-ovo-sexing/) - In-ovo sexing enables the determination of a chicken embryo's sex while it's still nestled in the egg, long before hatching ever occurs. This technique is not applied to the eggs you see in grocery stores, which are infertile, but rather to the eggs destined to become the hens that produce those consumer-ready eggs.
- [Avian Influenza](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/avian-influenza/) - Avian influenza (AI), also referred to as bird flu, is a virus that infects all types of avian species, including wild birds and domestic poultry. AI is an animal health issue that causes mild to severe symptoms in birds and, in its most extreme form, can be fatal to infected birds. The U.S. egg industry
- [Color (egg shell)](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/color-egg-shell/) - Shell color comes from pigments in the outer layer of the shell and may range from white to deep brown. The shell color has no relationship to egg quality, flavor, nutritive value, cooking characteristics or shell thickness. The color is determined by the breed of hen that laid the egg. Among commercial breeds, hens with
- [Coalition for Sustainable Egg Supply (CSES)](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/coalition-for-sustainable-egg-supply-cses/) - A multi-stakeholder group of animal welfare scientists, academic institutions, non-government organizations, egg suppliers and restaurant/foodservice and food retail companies. CSES evaluated various laying hen housing environments and found benefits and trade-offs with each type of housing. Refer to CSES website.
- [Carton dates](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/carton-dates/) - Egg cartons from plants producing U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA)-graded eggs must display a Julian date – the date the eggs were packed. Although not required, egg cartons may also carry an expiration (sell-by) date and/or a best-by (use-by) date. Expiration dates are included on some egg cartons ensuring retailers do not keep eggs on
- [Candling](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/candling/) - Candling is the step during grading when the egg grader looks inside the egg (without breaking it) to judge quality. Long ago, this quality check was done by holding a candle behind an egg. Some hand-candling, using electric equipment, is still used for spot-checking or for training egg graders; however, today most eggs pass on
- [Cage-free eggs](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/cage-free-eggs/) - Cage-free eggs are laid by hens that are able to roam vertically and horizontally in indoor houses, and have access to fresh food and water. Cage-free systems vary from farm-to-farm, and can include multi-tier aviaries. They must allow hens to exhibit natural behaviors and include enrichments such as scratch areas, perches and nests. Hens must
- [Brown eggs](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/brown-eggs/) - Shell color comes from pigments in the outer layer of the shell and, in eggs from various commercial breeds, may range from white to deep brown. The breed of hen determines the color of the shell. Among commercial breeds, hens with white feathers and ear lobes lay white-shelled eggs; hens with red/brown feathers and ear
- [Breed](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/breed/) - The breed of hen determines the color of the shell. Among commercial breeds, hens with white feathers and ear lobes lay white-shelled eggs; hens with red feathers and ear lobes lay brown eggs. White eggs are most in demand among American buyers. In some parts of the country, however, particularly in New England, brown shells
- [Breakers](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/breakers/) - Processors who convert shell eggs into liquid or further-processed egg products. Breaking plants are under strict U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspection by USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. Breaking plants use a fascinating array of modern equipment to break eggs and separate the shell, white and yolk.
- [Biosecurity](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/biosecurity/) - Biosecurity practices are intended to protect harmful biological agents from entering a flock of birds. Common examples include limiting poultry building access only to necessary personnel and preventing wild birds, rodents, pets and other animals from mixing with the flock. Bird flu – See Avian Influenza
- [Beak trimming](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/beak-trimming/) - The old phrase “pecking order” comes from the fact that chickens do peck at one another, sometimes inflicting considerable injury and even death. To prevent this, the majority of commercial egg farms trim beaks when chicks are 10 days of age or younger, when there is little stress, a practice supported by the scientific community.
- [Aviary](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/aviary/) - A cage-free housing design that allows hens to roam and move back and forth to different levels. Hens can forage and dust bathe in an open area, and move up to nest boxes on an upper level. This system requires more than twice as much space to produce the same numbers of eggs as a
- [Antibiotic-free eggs](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/antibiotic-free-eggs/) - Eggs can be labeled as antibiotic-free if egg farmers choose not to use any antibiotics in feed or water, when the pullets (young hens) are growing or when hens are laying eggs. Certified organic eggs must be antibiotic-free by regulation. See also Antibiotics, Organic eggs
- [Antibiotics](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/antibiotics/) - Antibiotics are drugs that fight infections caused by bacteria. Due to on-farm disease prevention and effective use of vaccines, only a small percentage of egg-laying hens receive antibiotics. If they do, it is under supervision of a veterinarian and only for a short time to treat a specific disease or prevent a recurring disease. A
- [Animal welfare audits](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/animal-welfare-audits/) - On-farm assessments that are conducted by independent, third-party organizations as part of a certification program to assure that animals are being raised according to set animal care guidelines. For laying hens, UEP Certified is one such science-based certification programs, with guidelines for conventional housing established in 2002 and cage-free guidelines launched in 2006. See also
- [American Egg Board](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/american-egg-board/) - American Egg Board (AEB) is the promotion (advertising, marketing communications), education and research organization for the U.S. egg industry. The activities of AEB are conducted under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Secretary of Agriculture appoints a Board of Directors, egg producers who provide direction to administer the program on behalf
- [Washing](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/washing/) - Washing eggs removes any dirt or stains. In modern layer houses, eggs are gathered shortly after they’re laid and moved to automated washing equipment. Strict federal regulations specify the procedures and food-safe cleaning compounds that may be used. Today most eggs are cleaned in mechanical egg washers employing sprayers, brushes, detergent-sanitizers, rinsers and driers. Only
- [United Egg Producers](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/united-egg-producers/) - United Egg Producers (UEP) is a cooperative of U.S. egg farmers working collaboratively to address legislative, regulatory and advocacy issues impacting the industry through active farmer-member leadership, a unified voice and partnership across the agriculture community. UEP’s farmer-members work to provide for the health and well-being of their birds; to produce safe, nutritious, high-quality eggs;
- [UEP 5-Star Egg Safety Program](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/uep-5-star-egg-safety-program/) - A voluntary program of United Egg Producers. “5-Star” goes beyond the FDA* Egg Safety Rule requirements to provide egg farmers with a comprehensive, dependable food safety program from the farm through processing. (*FDA = Food and Drug Administration)
- [UEP Certified](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/uep-certified/) - Developed by United Egg Producers and voluntarily implemented by egg farmers in 2002, this program outlines science-based guidelines for the care and well-being of hens. Any egg farm wanting to market eggs as UEP Certified must implement the scientific guidelines on 100 percent of their flocks. An independent, third-party audit program assures that each farm
- [Scientific Advisory Committee](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/scientific-advisory-committee/) - A panel commissioned by United Egg Producers in 1999 to review scientific literature on specific topics relevant to the well-being of laying hens and to identify areas where further research was needed. This process led to the development and implementation of science-based guidelines (UEP Certified) to improve the well-being of laying hens managed in conventional
- [Salmonella](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/salmonella/) - A group of bacteria found in the intestinal tracts of animals, birds, reptiles, insects and humans. The majority of reported salmonellosis outbreaks involving eggs or foods that contain eggs have occurred in food service kitchens and resulted from inadequate refrigeration, improper handling and/or insufficient cooking. The egg community follows several programs to reduce Salmonella bacteria
- [Ration](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/ration/) - Nourishment for egg-laying hens must be formulated and fed to promote good health and normal production. To minimize the risk of bone fractures, laying hens should be able to consume enough calcium and phosphorus daily to support eggshell formation without loss of structural bone.
- [Pullet](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/pullet/) - A young female chicken less than 1 year old. For egg layers, a pullet is a young female before she reaches sexual maturity and starts laying eggs, around 17 to 18 weeks.
- [Processing](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/processing/) - Egg processing involves: Washing to remove contaminants such as manure and blood Removing eggs with abnormal shapes or other defects Holding eggs to a concentrated light (candling) to identify internal defects Grading according to characteristics such as quality and weight Packaging to ensure safe shipment and enhanced product appearance Labeling with the Plant Code, as
- [Perch](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/perch/) - Perches are designed within some indoor housing environments to allow hens living in large flocks to roost comfortably with a minimum of disturbance, to provide hens with a refuge from injurious pecking and to minimize flightiness.
- [Pecking order](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/pecking-order/) - The old phrase “pecking order” comes from the fact that chickens do peck at one another, sometimes inflicting considerable injury and even death. Egg farmers work to minimize pecking order and protect hens from one another through choices in hen care, housing environment and flock management. See also Beak trimming
- [Pasture-raised](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/pasture-raised/) - Hens in this type of management system have access to the outdoors and graze primarily by eating grass and bugs. There are not specific guidelines for pasture-raised egg production, and farms are not required to use third-party audits.
- [Pasteurized eggs](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/pasteurized-eggs/) - A process during which liquid and further processed eggs are heated to temperatures just below the coagulation point to destroy pathogens, which may be beneficial for immune-compromised individuals.
- [Organic eggs](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/organic-eggs/) - Eggs produced according to national U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) organic standards related to methods, practices and substances used in producing and handling crops, livestock and processed agricultural products. All organic eggs are from free-range hens and must meet all of the requirements for those, including being raised outdoors or having access to the outdoors
- [Nest-run eggs](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/nest-run-eggs/) - Eggs which are packed as they come from the production facilities without having been washed, sized and candled for quality.
- [Nest / Nesting / Nest boxes](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/nest-nesting-nest-boxes/) - Nests separated with curtains are provided in cage-free and enriched colony housing to allow hens privacy for egg-laying, to facilitate egg collection, to minimize the risk of cannibalism and for food safety and sanitary reasons.
- [Natural](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/natural/) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) identifies all shell eggs as natural.
- [National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP)](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/national-poultry-improvement-plan-npip/) - The National Poultry Improvement Plan provides a cooperative industry, state, and federal program using diagnostic technology to improve poultry and poultry products. Refer to NPIP website.
- [Molting](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/molting/) - This process of shedding old feathers to make way for new growth causes hens to lay fewer (or no) eggs. On commercial farms, induced molting allows farmers to bring all hens into a molt at the same time, which allows improved egg quality and more efficient egg production. UEP guidelines stipulate only non-feed withdrawal molt
- [Manure management](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/manure-management/) - Capturing, drying, storing, treating and utilizing poultry manure in an environmentally-responsible manner.
- [Manure belts / belt system](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/manure-belts-belt-system/) - Conveyer systems inside poultry houses that aid in the drying of manure, reduce pests and odors, and carry manure away from the birds and eggs to a storage facility outside the barn.
- [Layer / Laying hen](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/layer-laying-hen/) - A grown, female chicken kept primarily for laying eggs.
- [Inline processing](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/inline-processing-2/) - In inline processing, processing of eggs occurs at the same location that they are laid, as opposed to offline processing, during which eggs are transported to an off-farm location. Inline processing is the most efficient egg collection and processing system, as the eggs are delivered from the farm to the egg processing facility by an
- [Inline processing](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/inline-processing/) - In inline processing, processing of eggs occurs at the same location that they are laid, as opposed to offline processing, during which eggs are transported to an off-farm location. Inline processing is the most efficient egg collection and processing system, as the eggs are delivered from the farm to the egg processing facility by an
- [Hormones](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/hormones/) - In the U.S., by federal law passed more than 50 years ago, neither laying hens nor any other type of poultry can be fed hormones. However, eggs contain natural hormones. Therefore, the statement “no hormones” is considered misleading to the consumer. The egg industry does not use added hormones in the production of shell eggs.
- [Grading](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/grading/) - Classification determined by the interior and exterior quality of the egg at the time it is packed. In some egg-packing plants, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides a voluntary grading service for shell eggs. The official USDA grade shield on an egg carton certifies that the eggs have been processed, packaged and certified under
- [Further processing](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/further-processing/) - Out-of-the-shell eggs are combined with other ingredients to create finished food products for retail and foodservice users. Further processed egg products are classified into four groups: refrigerated liquid egg products; frozen and cooked egg products; dried egg products and non-food byproducts. Further processed eggs are commonly called “egg products.”
- [Free-range](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/free-range/) - On these farms, hens have some access to the outdoors. There are not specific guidelines for free-range egg production, and farms are not required to use third-party audits.
- [Floor space](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/floor-space/) - The amount of floor space available to each hen within an indoor house. Depending on the housing style, UEP Certified guidelines require that a minimum range of 1.0 - 1.5 square feet of usable floor space per hen be provided to allow for normal behavior.
- [Fertile eggs](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/fertile-eggs/) - Fertilized eggs can be found at specialty foods stores. Commercially-raised eggs are laid by hens who have not mated with a rooster so are not fertilized.
- [Expiration Date](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/expiration-date/) - A date on an egg carton beyond which the eggs should not be sold.
- [Euthanasia](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/euthanasia/) - Humanely ending the life of an animal that has an incurable and painful disease. When euthanasia of a chick or grown bird is necessary, best management practices support only those veterinarian-approved methods that are instantaneous and painless. See also Depopulation
- [Enriched colony housing](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/enriched-colony-housing/) - This housing provides a larger enclosed space that is equipped with perches, private nesting areas and a surface to facilitate natural behaviors such as foraging and dust bathing. Sometimes referred to as furnished housing.
- [Egg Safety Rule](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/egg-safety-rule/) - An FDA rule implemented in 2010 to enhance egg safety by requiring measures to prevent the bacterium Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) from contaminating eggs on the farm and reduce further growth during storage and transportation. On farms of 3000 hens or more, the Egg Safety Rule requires farms take certain preventive steps while producing eggs on
- [Egg Products Inspection Act](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/egg-products-inspection-act/) - The Egg Products Inspection Act assures that eggs and egg products distributed and consumed by the public are wholesome, not adulterated, and properly labeled and packaged. Passed by Congress in 1970, the Egg Products Inspection Act is administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and imposes specific inspection requirements for two categories of
- [Egg belt](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/egg-belt/) - A conveyer system inside poultry houses that carries eggs away from barns after they are laid to be cleaned and processed for transport to retail outlets. See also Inline processing
- [Depopulation](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/depopulation/) - Euthanasia of many hens on a farm to prevent the spread of disease or for older hens with decreased egg production. When depopulation is necessary, best management practices support only those approved methods that are instantaneous and painless. See also Euthanasia
- [Conventional cage housing](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/conventional-cage-housing/) - A type of housing introduced in the 1950s to protect flocks from weather, predators and disease. Farmers found that cages also improved sanitation and allowed for more efficient production. Hens are kept in smaller groups, which can minimize aggression and pecking order. Hens have continuous access to feed and water and are able to move
- [Julian Dates](https://unitedegg.com/glossary/julian-dates/) - Starting with January 1 as 001 and ending with December 31 as 365, these numbers represent the consecutive days of the year. This number system is sometimes used on egg cartons to denote the day the eggs are packed. You can store fresh shell eggs in their cartons in the refrigerator with insignificant quality loss

## Resources

- [UEP Biosecurity Task Force Resources For Egg Producers](https://unitedegg.com/resource/uep-biosecurity-task-force-resources-for-egg-producers/)
- [2024 UEP Certified Cage-Free Guidelines](https://unitedegg.com/resource/uep-certified-guidelines/)
- [2025 UEP Certified Cage Guidelines](https://unitedegg.com/resource/2017-uep-certified-cage-guidelines/)
- [Repopulating America’s Egg Farms](https://unitedegg.com/resource/repopulating-americas-egg-farms/)
- [Fire Mitigation and Prevention On-Farm in the Egg Industry](https://unitedegg.com/resource/fire-mitigation-and-prevention-on-farm-in-the-egg-industry/)
- [United States Poultry Impact Report](https://unitedegg.com/resource/united-states-poultry-impact-report/)
- [United States Egg Impact Report](https://unitedegg.com/resource/economic-impact-of-eggs-in-the-u-s/)
- [An Egg’s Journey: From Hen to Home Infographic](https://unitedegg.com/resource/an-eggs-journey-from-hen-to-home-infographic/)
- [UEP 50th Anniversary Brochure](https://unitedegg.com/resource/ueps-50th-anniversary-brochure/)
- [Midwestern Egg Farm](https://unitedegg.com/resource/midwestern-egg-farm/)
- [Biosecurity on Egg Farm 1](https://unitedegg.com/resource/biosecurity-on-egg-farm-1/)
- [Egg Packing](https://unitedegg.com/resource/egg-packing/)
- [Egg Processing / Egg Wash](https://unitedegg.com/resource/egg-processing-egg-wash/)
- [Hen House: Enriched Colony](https://unitedegg.com/resource/hen-house-enriched-colony/)
- [Hen House: Conventional Cage 2](https://unitedegg.com/resource/hen-house-conventional-cage-2/)
- [Hen House: Conventional Cage](https://unitedegg.com/resource/hen-house-conventional-cage/)
- [Brown Hen in Cage-Free House](https://unitedegg.com/resource/brown-hen-in-cage-free-house/)
- [Comparative Assessment of the Environmental Footprint of the U.S. Egg Industry in 1960 and 2010 (final report)](https://unitedegg.com/resource/comparative-assessment-of-the-environmental-footprint-of-the-u-s-egg-industry-in-1960-and-2010-final-report/)
- [Comparison of the environmental footprint of the egg industry in the United States in 1960 and 2010 (published paper)](https://unitedegg.com/resource/comparison-of-the-environmental-footprint-of-the-egg-industry-in-the-united-states-in-1960-and-2010-published-paper/)
- [50-Year Impact: Saving Water](https://unitedegg.com/resource/50-year-impact-saving-water/)
- [50-Year Impact: Improving Feed](https://unitedegg.com/resource/50-year-impact-improving-feed/)
- [50-Year Impact: Reducing Emissions](https://unitedegg.com/resource/50-year-impact-reducing-emissions/)
- [USDA Scoop on Eggs](https://unitedegg.com/resource/usda-scoop-on-eggs/)
- [USDA Certified Egg Facts](https://unitedegg.com/resource/usda-certified-egg-facts/)
- [How Long Are Eggs Safe to Eat?](https://unitedegg.com/resource/how-long-are-eggs-safe-to-eat/)
- [USDA Egg Grades](https://unitedegg.com/resource/usda-egg-grades/)
- [Egg Sizes](https://unitedegg.com/resource/egg-sizes/)
- [Safe Egg Purchase Considerations](https://unitedegg.com/resource/safe-egg-purchase-considerations/)
- [Eggs: Fresh from Farm to You](https://unitedegg.com/resource/eggs-fresh-from-farm-to-you/)
- [USDA Defend the Flock toolkit](https://unitedegg.com/resource/usda-defend-the-flock-toolkit/)
- [Suspendisse iaculis euismod erat.](https://unitedegg.com/resource/suspendisse-iaculis-euismod-erat/)
- [Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla ultrices pulvinar lectus eu auctor.](https://unitedegg.com/resource/lorem-ipsum-dolor-sit-amet-consectetur-adipiscing-elit-nulla-ultrices-pulvinar-lectus-eu-auctor/)

## Categories

- [UEP in the News](https://unitedegg.com/category/uep-in-the-news/)
- [News Releases/Media Statements](https://unitedegg.com/category/news-releases-media-statements/)
- [UEP Blogs](https://unitedegg.com/category/uep-blogs/)
- [Newsletter Reference](https://unitedegg.com/category/newsletter-reference/)

## Tags

- [Avian Influenza](https://unitedegg.com/tag/avian-influenza/)
- [Biosecurity/Disease Prevention](https://unitedegg.com/tag/biosecurity-disease-prevention/)
- [Economic Impact](https://unitedegg.com/tag/economic-impact/)
- [Environment](https://unitedegg.com/tag/environment/)
- [Egg Community](https://unitedegg.com/tag/egg-community/)
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- [Food Safety](https://unitedegg.com/tag/food-safety/)
- [Government Regulations](https://unitedegg.com/tag/government-regulations/)
- [Hen Care](https://unitedegg.com/tag/hen-care/)
- [Hen Housing](https://unitedegg.com/tag/hen-housing/)
- [Sustainability](https://unitedegg.com/tag/sustainability/)
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- [Education](https://unitedegg.com/tag/education/)
- [Cage-Free Housing](https://unitedegg.com/tag/cage-free-housing/)
- [CSR](https://unitedegg.com/tag/csr/)
- [Hen Welfare](https://unitedegg.com/tag/hen-welfare/)
- [CDC](https://unitedegg.com/tag/cdc/)
- [COVID-19](https://unitedegg.com/tag/covid-19/)
- [Industry Research](https://unitedegg.com/tag/industry-research/)
- [Economic Aid](https://unitedegg.com/tag/economic-aid/)
- [Employees](https://unitedegg.com/tag/employees/)
- [UEP Food Safety Advisory Council](https://unitedegg.com/tag/uep-food-safety-advisory-council/)
- [USDA AMS](https://unitedegg.com/tag/usda-ams/)
- [House Agriculture Committee](https://unitedegg.com/tag/house-agriculture-committee/)
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- [Antibiotics](https://unitedegg.com/tag/antibiotics/)
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- [Climate Change](https://unitedegg.com/tag/climate-change/)
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- [Proposition 12](https://unitedegg.com/tag/proposition-12/)
- [UEP Certified](https://unitedegg.com/tag/uep-certified/)
- [World Animal Health Organization](https://unitedegg.com/tag/world-animal-health-organization/)
- [Emissions](https://unitedegg.com/tag/emissions/)
- [Foodborne Illness](https://unitedegg.com/tag/foodborne-illness/)
- [Salmonella](https://unitedegg.com/tag/salmonella/)
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- [NERO](https://unitedegg.com/tag/nero/)
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- [APHIS Wildlife Services](https://unitedegg.com/tag/aphis-wildlife-services/)
- [in-ovo sexing](https://unitedegg.com/tag/in-ovo-sexing/)
- [antimicrobial resistance](https://unitedegg.com/tag/antimicrobial-resistance/)
- [plant-based food](https://unitedegg.com/tag/plant-based-food/)
- [food labels](https://unitedegg.com/tag/food-labels/)
- [bird flu](https://unitedegg.com/tag/bird-flu/)
- [Dietary Guidelines for Americans](https://unitedegg.com/tag/dietary-guidelines-for-americans/)
- [DGA](https://unitedegg.com/tag/dga/)
- [Senate Agriculture Committee](https://unitedegg.com/tag/senate-agriculture-committee/)
- [SNAP](https://unitedegg.com/tag/snap/)
- [WIC](https://unitedegg.com/tag/wic/)
- [Food and Nutrition Service](https://unitedegg.com/tag/food-and-nutrition-service/)
- [Eggs](https://unitedegg.com/tag/eggs/)
- [UEP](https://unitedegg.com/tag/uep/)
- [Secretary Vilsack](https://unitedegg.com/tag/secretary-vilsack/)
- [Thrifty Food Plan](https://unitedegg.com/tag/thrifty-food-plan/)
- [NCBA](https://unitedegg.com/tag/ncba/)
- [Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF)](https://unitedegg.com/tag/chesapeake-bay-foundation-cbf/)
- [Sackett v. EPA](https://unitedegg.com/tag/sackett-v-epa/)
- [Food Safety and Inspection Service](https://unitedegg.com/tag/food-safety-and-inspection-service/)
- [debt limit](https://unitedegg.com/tag/debt-limit/)
- [TANF](https://unitedegg.com/tag/tanf/)
- [significant nexus](https://unitedegg.com/tag/significant-nexus/)
- [CAFO](https://unitedegg.com/tag/cafo/)
- [AEB](https://unitedegg.com/tag/aeb/)
- [FLOTUS](https://unitedegg.com/tag/flotus/)
- [World Egg Day](https://unitedegg.com/tag/world-egg-day/)
- [Outward Farms](https://unitedegg.com/tag/outward-farms/)
- [AMS](https://unitedegg.com/tag/ams/)
- [Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program](https://unitedegg.com/tag/resilient-food-systems-infrastructure-program/)
- [Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA)](https://unitedegg.com/tag/emergency-planning-and-community-right-to-know-act-epcra/)
- [ANPR](https://unitedegg.com/tag/anpr/)
- [Food Waste](https://unitedegg.com/tag/food-waste/)
- [Biden Administration](https://unitedegg.com/tag/biden-administration/)
- [rodenticide](https://unitedegg.com/tag/rodenticide/)
- [FIFRA](https://unitedegg.com/tag/fifra/)
- [Office of Management and Budget](https://unitedegg.com/tag/office-of-management-and-budget/)
- [Department of Energy](https://unitedegg.com/tag/department-of-energy/)
- [Virtual Listening Sessions](https://unitedegg.com/tag/virtual-listening-sessions/)
- [Draft Endangered Species Act (ESA)](https://unitedegg.com/tag/draft-endangered-species-act-esa/)
- [NPIP](https://unitedegg.com/tag/npip/)
- [National Poultry Improvement Plan](https://unitedegg.com/tag/national-poultry-improvement-plan/)
- [Avian metapneumovirus](https://unitedegg.com/tag/avian-metapneumovirus/)
- [aMPV](https://unitedegg.com/tag/ampv/)
- [National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN)](https://unitedegg.com/tag/national-animal-health-laboratory-network-nahln/)
- [NEQS](https://unitedegg.com/tag/neqs/)
- [National Egg Quality School](https://unitedegg.com/tag/national-egg-quality-school/)
- [Mammals](https://unitedegg.com/tag/mammals/)
- [Domestic Livestock](https://unitedegg.com/tag/domestic-livestock/)
- [Origin Rule](https://unitedegg.com/tag/origin-rule/)
- [U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)](https://unitedegg.com/tag/u-s-securities-and-exchange-commission-sec/)
- [Climate-Disclosure Rule](https://unitedegg.com/tag/climate-disclosure-rule/)
- [FNS](https://unitedegg.com/tag/fns/)
- [Legislative Meetings](https://unitedegg.com/tag/legislative-meetings/)
- [Senator Boozman](https://unitedegg.com/tag/senator-boozman/)
- [Representative Randy Feenstra](https://unitedegg.com/tag/representative-randy-feenstra/)
- [Animal Agriculture Water Quality Subcommittee](https://unitedegg.com/tag/animal-agriculture-water-quality-subcommittee/)
- [Animal Agriculture and Water Quality (AAWQ)](https://unitedegg.com/tag/animal-agriculture-and-water-quality-aawq/)
- [OMB](https://unitedegg.com/tag/omb/)
- [Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)](https://unitedegg.com/tag/food-safety-and-inspection-service-fsis/)
- [Notices of Intent to Make a Motion](https://unitedegg.com/tag/notices-of-intent-to-make-a-motion/)
- [FSIS](https://unitedegg.com/tag/fsis/)
- [Poultry Products](https://unitedegg.com/tag/poultry-products/)
- [Drinking water](https://unitedegg.com/tag/drinking-water/)
- [Safe Drinking Water Act](https://unitedegg.com/tag/safe-drinking-water-act/)
- [Area Briefings](https://unitedegg.com/tag/area-briefings/)
- [ERS](https://unitedegg.com/tag/ers/)
- [Agricultural Nutrient Policy Council](https://unitedegg.com/tag/agricultural-nutrient-policy-council/)
- [NFPA](https://unitedegg.com/tag/nfpa/)
- [Sprinklers](https://unitedegg.com/tag/sprinklers/)
- [Layers](https://unitedegg.com/tag/layers/)
- [Dairy Cattle](https://unitedegg.com/tag/dairy-cattle/)
- [National Ambient Air Quality Standards](https://unitedegg.com/tag/national-ambient-air-quality-standards/)
- [Task Force on Agricultural Air Quality Research](https://unitedegg.com/tag/task-force-on-agricultural-air-quality-research/)
- [Rodenticides](https://unitedegg.com/tag/rodenticides/)
- [119th Congress](https://unitedegg.com/tag/119th-congress/)
- [House](https://unitedegg.com/tag/house/)
- [Senate](https://unitedegg.com/tag/senate/)
- [Egg Imitators](https://unitedegg.com/tag/egg-imitators/)
- [Tariffs](https://unitedegg.com/tag/tariffs/)
- [The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)](https://unitedegg.com/tag/the-united-states-mexico-canada-agreement-usmca/)
- [Congressional Budget](https://unitedegg.com/tag/congressional-budget/)
- [Budget Resolution](https://unitedegg.com/tag/budget-resolution/)
- [Secretary Rollins](https://unitedegg.com/tag/secretary-rollins/)

## Resource Categories

- [Articles](https://unitedegg.com/resource_category/articles/)
- [Graphics](https://unitedegg.com/resource_category/graphics/)
- [Guides](https://unitedegg.com/resource_category/guides/)
- [Photos](https://unitedegg.com/resource_category/photos/)
- [Brochures](https://unitedegg.com/resource_category/brochures/)
- [UEP Certified Guidelines](https://unitedegg.com/resource_category/uep-certified-guidelines/)
- [Economic Impact](https://unitedegg.com/resource_category/economic-impact/)
- [Reports](https://unitedegg.com/resource_category/reports/)

## Tags

- [Avian Influenza](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/avian-influenza/)
- [Biosecurity / Disease Prevention](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/biosecurity-disease-prevention/)
- [Economic Impact](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/economic-impact/)
- [Egg Production (general)](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/egg-production-general/)
- [Environment](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/environment/)
- [Food Safety](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/food-safety/)
- [Hen Care](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/hen-care/)
- [Hen Housing](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/hen-housing/)
- [Sustainability](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/sustainability/)
- [Statistics](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/statistics/)
- [Industry Statistics](https://unitedegg.com/resource_type/industry-statistics/)