The U.S. turkey industry’s experiences of the past year — or even the past 24 months — could perhaps best be described as a roller coaster ride that just won’t end. Each time you round the corner, there’s an unexpected new twist or turn: a global pandemic, lingering supply chain disruptions, soaring feed costs and the latest issue affecting turkey production — a widespread outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The industry is ready to get off this ride!
While supply chain challenges, including labor availability and transportation remain an issue in some circumstances — much like the rest of the food and agriculture sector — the industry and the National Turkey Federation (NTF) are laser-focused on HPAI response. Following reports of HPAI detections in wild birds early this year, the first HPAI case in a commercial turkey flock was identified in early February. As of mid-September, more than 6.3 million turkeys have been lost to HPAI. That loss represents 2.9% of annual U.S. turkey production. Despite fewer losses to date than the turkey industry experienced in 2015, these losses are significant and have been felt throughout the supply chain. The latest U.S. Department of Agriculture reports forecast turkey production and exports down for 2022. However, it is important to note that the industry anticipates there will be plenty of turkey products available for the holiday season,