Peach Tree Times

Following the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a commercial poultry flock in Elbert County, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper has assured consumers that poultry products available for retail sale remain safe. In a statement, Harper emphasized that "every Georgian can and should have 100% confidence in the safety and security of poultry products offered for sale in the state of Georgia." He further stated that the HPAI incident will not affect consumers' ability to purchase poultry products like meat or eggs from grocery stores or restaurants, nor will it impact retailers' capacity to sell these items.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) supports this assurance by stating that Avian Influenza does not pose a significant threat to the state's food supply. The risk of an infected bird entering the food supply chain is considered low. USDA advises that properly prepared and cooked poultry and eggs are safe for consumption.

Regarding the suspension of certain poultry activities, Harper clarified that this applies only to exhibitions, shows, swaps, meets, and sales involving live birds at flea markets or auction markets. This suspension does not affect retail sales of poultry products within Georgia. Production facilities and private treaty sales between individuals remain unaffected as well. Birds may continue to be shipped into Georgia following routine entry requirements.