The poultry industry advanced in technical sophistication and efficiency tremendously in the last 50 years. Some of this advancement came through the application of research findings made possible by grants from the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) and the USPOULTRY Foundation.
Denise Heard | Courtesy USPOULTRY
USPOULTRY’s research programs
At any given time, USPOULTRY is using more than $3 million to finance 35 to 40 active research projects. Since its inception, USPOULTRY and the foundation have invested more than $32 million in research grants to address key issues facing the industry.
These projects led to improvements in areas as varied as growth rate, feed efficiency, egg production and food safety. Past studies yielded advances in poultry housing, feed and water systems, construction and ventilation systems. Others led to progress in vaccine development and disease control programs that reduced the incidence and severity of poultry diseases. These achievements allowed poultry to reach optimal production while maintaining a high level of health and welfare.
Comprehensive Research Program
The Comprehensive Research Program (CRP) and the Board Research Initiative (BRI) are the arms of the USPOULTRY Research Program.
The CRP is the traditional program and funds research in 17 broad topic areas addressing the industry’s priorities and needs.
Proposals are reviewed and evaluated twice a year by the Foundation Research Advisory Committee (FRAC), made up of 15 dedicated industry technical experts. The most relevant and needed proposals are submitted and recommended for funding. Funding approvals come from the boards of USPOULTRY and the foundation.
Board Research Initiative
The BRI operates separately and does not compete for funding or resources with the CRP. It releases special requests for proposals on specific topics.
These topics are chosen by the boards of directors of USPOULTRY and the foundation. The BRI’s request for proposals are focused and specify the questions and areas of focus sought in the research. The boards of USPOULTRY and the foundation choose the topics for the BRI.
