On-Farm Programs

Manitoba’s registered broiler breeder farmers and broiler farmers participate in national on-farm food safety and animal care programs. The simple principle behind these programs is for farmers to “say what they do, do what they say, and prove it.” These on-farm programs are mandatory, and each farm is audited regularly.

Broiler Breeders

Canadian Hatching Egg Quality (CHEQTM) is the national on-farm food safety program for registered hatching egg farms. Developed by Canadian Hatching Egg Producers, the program provides standards for areas such as biosecurity, egg handling and storage, pest control, and cleaning and disinfection.
CHEP’s Animal Care Program ensures there is a minimum standard for flock care. The program’s standards are based on the Recommended Code of Practice and covers areas such as barn environment, feed and water, stocking density, flock monitoring, and bird handling.

Broilers

Raised by a Canadian Farmer is a commitment to food safety, animal care, and sustainability.

Programs were developed by Chicken Farmers of Canada in consultation with farmers, veterinarians, and poultry scientists.

On-Farm Food Safety Program: This component of Raised by a Canadian Farmer combines good production practices with the internationally recognized Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles of chicken production. This program includes standards for areas such as biosecurity protocols, barn cleaning, pest management, water quality, and manure handling. Farmers track and record information about each flock.
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Animal Care Program: This component of Raised by a Canadian Farmer was developed to maintain high standards of animal care on broiler farms; animal welfare is a priority. This program sets standards for areas such as barn environment, stocking density, and bird handling. These requirements are also based on the Recommended Code of Practice.
Stringent record keeping is an important part of Raised by a Canadian Farmer. The implementation and management of these programs are subject to annual third-party audits to ensure consistency across the country.

Chicken Farmers Are Committed To Excellence in Sustainability Practices

For Chicken Farmers of Canada, sustainable chicken production means:

  • Protecting animal health and welfare
  • Producing safe chicken
  • Preserving the health of the land and of Canadian farms
  • Contributing to the Canadian economy by providing affordable food to Canadians

Busting Chicken Farming Myths

Are chickens raised in cages?
Barns keep chickens safe from predators and disease and are also helpful in regulating temperature, keeping chickens comfortable throughout our changing seasons.
Are chickens fed hormones and steroids so that they grow quickly?
No. Added hormones and steroids are NOT allowed in chicken farming. They have been banned since the 1960s.
Are chickens factory-farmed?

There are no factory farms in Canada. 97% of farms in Manitoba are family-owned and operated.

Does chicken meat contain antibiotics?
The chicken you eat does not contain antibiotics.
Are chickens force-fed?
Chickens always have access to plenty of healthy, grain-based feed and water. They eat and drink when they choose.
Why are chickens raised in barns?
Barns keep chickens safe from predators and disease and are also helpful in regulating temperature, keeping chickens comfortable throughout our changing seasons.