The Nebraska farms that raise poultry for Costco have slaughtered more than 500,000 birds to contain an outbreak of the killer germ.
hickens, many of them destined for the spit, have vastly outnumbered humans in Nebraska’s Butler County since Costco spent half a billion dollars on poultry production in the state a few years ago. Now that a highly contagious virus called avian flu has infected flocks in the area, neighboring farmers are realizing they may have a Costco problem.
“They could start to have out-of-stocks on chicken,” said Michael Baker, a managing director at investment bank D.A. Davidson & Co. who follows the retailer. “But what Costco has proven, through Covid, is that they have the ability to make up for out-of-stocks in other parts of the stores.” Private equity firm Gallus Capital came in to raise some chickens, initially filing permits to build more than 130 chicken houses holding as many as 47,000 chickens in each.
Community groups protested the Fremont operation when it opened, citing health risks that included the potential spread of avian flu because it’s commonly associated with factory farms. Biosecurity is aimed at decreasing the likelihood of further contagion. Measures include limiting visitors and avoiding contact with the fowl; no equipment sharing; taking foot baths before entering chicken facilities; care not to transport the flu bug on vehicle tires; and covering food and water sources.
“It’s scary because it doesn’t seem to be going away,” said FAIRR executive director Maria Lettini. “Outbreaks continue to occur. A lot of that is because we rely on current approaches to try to tackle some of those diseases.”
Singapore Latest News, Singapore Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
You Have Every Right to Doubt This Nashville Hot Chicken Beer (But Try it First)Birds of a feather: Yes, Colorado now has a Nashville Hot Chicken... beer.
Read more »
Our Most Popular Recipes in MarchFrom custardy torrijas to weeknight chicken.
Read more »
Costco's Bakery Is Selling These Beloved Treats Right Now — Eat This Not ThatSpring has sprung and the bakery section at Costco is sprouting some favorites again like the mini carrot cakes and ham and cheese pastries.
Read more »
This Is The Most Unique Costco Location in America — Eat This Not ThatThe largest Costco warehouse in the world located in Salt Lake City, Utah also happens to be the one with the most exclusive features.
Read more »
Costco Is Now Carrying This Popular Drink — Eat This Not ThatCostco has unveiled a new product: a highly-popular Taiwanese drink that's available at coffee shops nationwide.
Read more »
Improve Supply Chain Effectiveness With Gartner Supply Chain Score
Read more »