Chicken consumers largely misinformed about HPAI
Many U.S. parents are uncertain about the risks and facts surrounding the ongoing highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak in commercial poultry, suggesting that the broiler industry needs to do a better job of communicating the facts to consumers, the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s health revealed.
According to the survey, fewer than half of respondents feel that they can find accurate information about HPAI and most indicated that they were unsure of whether there have been bird flu cases recorded in their states.
In addition, one in three parents reported actions to prevent the spread of HPAI. A quarter indicated they’re being more careful about general hygiene, 13% of respondents are more cautious handling eggs, chicken and beef and 7% are eating fewer eggs and less chicken beef.
This last fact should be particularly concerning to the broiler industry. There’s no evidence that bird flu is spread through chicken, egg or beef consumption as long as it is fully cooked. If this misperception continues to spread, it could negatively impact sales and the entire industry.