Avian Influenza

Avian Influenza

Avian Influenza is a disease that can affect chickens, turkeys, ducks and wild birds, and occasionally other types of animals and humans. Some Avian Influenza strains are considered “low pathogenic” meaning that birds may become ill but can recover.  “Highly pathogenic” strains can have devastating impacts on birds and can result in the loss of entire flocks.

Avian Influenza is particularly challenging because the disease is most often spread by wild birds during migration. When they land on farms, they can spread the germs that cause disease. Since 2021, HPAI has affected many locations in Canada and the U.S., and many birds were lost as a result. Federal agencies in Canada and the U.S. monitor, track and respond promptly when Avian Influenza occurs.

Experts say the best defence against any form of avian influenza is careful biosecurity, which Maple Leaf Foods takes very seriously.  Access to poultry farms is controlled, and our animal care teams wear special gear to prevent the introduction of any kind of disease into barns.

Although devastating to birds who contract highly pathogenic strains of avian influenza, the disease
poses no risk to poultry consumers. All of our poultry are inspected by Canadian Food Inspection Agency veterinarians at our plants because only healthy animals may be processed for food. Properly
cooked poultry products remain safe to consume.