As part of the 2013 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) education schedule, the American Meat Institute (AMI) and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPEA) will host a new conference for poultry processors titled Animal Care and Handling – Focus on Poultry on Monday, January 28, 2013 from 1– 5 p.m.

Taught by leading experts on poultry care and handling, the program will provide poultry processors with in-depth instruction on topics such as stunning systems for chickens and turkeys; factors affecting chicken and turkey quality; an overview of NCC, NTF, and UEP animal care guidelines; and broiler, layer and turkey handling & transport quality assurance. "The new Animal Care and Handling program is both timely and essential. The poultry industry is constantly changing, and a program such as this can offer valuable, time-tested guidance for the proper care and handling of the birds," remarked John Starkey, USPOULTRY president.

“The partnership between AMI and USPEA to bring this education to our members is invaluable,” said AMI President and CEO J. Patrick Boyle.  “Drawing from the resources of both organizations will provide attendees a thorough look at the best practices for poultry care and handling.”

Sessions will be taught by industry experts and academics, including: Kate Barger, Tyson Foods, Inc.; Sarge Bilgili, DVD, Ph.D., Auburn University; Karen Christensen, Ph.D., OK Foods; Eva Pendleton, DVM, MS, DACPV, Pennsylvania State University; and Yvonne Vizzier Thaxton, Ph.D., University of Arkansas.

The registration fee for all Expo attendees is $100. The 2013 IPPE, one of the world's largest poultry, feed, and meat industry events, will be held January 29-31, 2013 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Ga.

Source: AMI