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 Garrison gave attendees a behind the scenes look at the Salmonella Branderup recall, reviewing events before and after the recall,  FDA’s actions, and subsequent corrective measures conducted by Rose Acre Farms. Leaders had an engaging conversation, reviewing egg safety and recall messaging and discussing the role state associations play in recalls.

Attendees participated in facilitated roundtable exercises on the appropriate response to recalls and animal activists’ protests.   Garrison and Hinda Mitchell, Inspire PR Group, led attendees through steps that should occur in each circumstance.  State executives discussed how the situation may evolve, the role of each entity, and what associations and producers can, and cannot, do or say.

The UEP State Egg Association meeting was part of a multi-day American Egg Board meeting held at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel in Chicago.