 |
|
 |
|
|
| |
At the Farm
The most common type of hen for egg production in Canada today is the White Leghorn - a small, light bird that lays far more eggs than its ancestors. Each stage of the hen's development cycle requires specialized care and attention. Chicks (pullets) are hatched at hatcheries, raised in pullet barns for about 19 weeks and then transferred to laying hen barns.
The average laying hen produces over 300 eggs a year. Hens begin egg production at five to six months (19 weeks) of age and continue to lay for at least 12 months. Proper lighting, a well-balanced diet, fresh water and comfortable surroundings are essential for hen health and production. A hen's diet consists of grains, protein, vitamins and plenty of fresh water.
Hens are commonly kept in conventional cages, most often in small groups of three to six. Enriched cages are furnished with perches, scratch pads and a curtained nesting area. Eggs automatically roll out for collection and are gathered twice a day. They are then packed and refrigerated on the farm, ready for delivery to the grading station.
Animal Care
Registered egg farmers follow animal care standards set out in a national Code of Practice. The Code is based on science and represents the consensus of many stakeholders, including The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, the Veterinary Medical Association, animal scientists and farmers. The Code describes the best practices in animal care and handling for cage, free-run and free-range management systems. Canada also has a national Animal Care Certification Program based on the code, in which farmers are audited annually. In addition, Manitoba Egg Farmers has introduced a Quality Assurance Program to ensure farmers adhere to the Code and are food safety certified.
Animal care research is ongoing and supported by farmers. Egg Farmers of Canada (EFC) represents registered egg farmers from across the country. Egg Farmers of Canada is a member of the Canadian Poultry Research Council and contributes on behalf of farmers to projects focused on improving poultry health and welfare. This research will advance the industry's knowledge about the health and care of hens. In addition, Manitoba Egg Farmers (MEF) makes significant contributions toward University of Manitoba research projects and facilities.
Laying Hen Care Brochure & Video
Increasingly, the general public is becoming more curious about where their food comes from. Manitoba Egg Farmers recognizes this need to know and has developed a video and accompanying brochure which includes information on the variety of housing systems for laying hens in our province. All production practices including free-run, as well as conventional and enriched housing, are covered under the Code of Practice which provides guidelines for space, water, feed, lighting, air circulation and handling of hens. Regulated egg farmers follow good management practices in all systems and respond to the marketplace by offering the public a wide range of quality eggs to choose from. See the Animal Care section on this website. Click here to view the brochure.
Organic Eggs
The Organic Producers Association of Manitoba (OPAM) sets the provincial standards for organic production. These standards include the use of certified organic feed and seasonal access to an outdoor range. Independent organic inspectors certify farmers and only then can the term "organic" be used. Organic eggs are available in some Manitoba grocery stores. |
|
|
|
|
 |
