After the recent discovery of the highly pathogenic avian influenza at a poultry facility in Elbert County, Georgia agriculture officials maintain the retail sale of poultry products remain safe for consumption.
“Every Georgian can and should have 100% confidence in the safety and security of poultry products offered for sale in the state of Georgia,” Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said. “The recent detection of HPAI in a commercial poultry flock in Elbert County will not impact Georgians ability to purchase poultry products like meat or eggs at the local grocery store or restaurant nor will it impact retailers’ ability to offer these products for sale. Georgia and USDA have rigorous meat inspection standards to ensure the safety of our food supply, and no infected birds have entered the food supply chain.”
Avian Influenza does not compromise public safety or the state’s food supply, according to the USDA, and the risk of an infected bird contaminating the food supply chain remains low. Poultry and eggs that are properly cooked are safe to eat, the department states.
The suspension of poultry activities in Georgia applies to poultry exhibitions, shows, swaps, meets and sales (flea market or auction market) involving live birds, according to Harper.
Harper said “there will be no impact on retailers’ ability to offer poultry products like meat and eggs for commercial sales,” and that the suspension does not apply to production facilities in Georgia nor private treaty sales between individuals.
