Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our nation’s farmers have held steadfast to their mission of feeding the country. On Monday, National Farmer’s Day, NCC extended our gratitude for all chicken farmers have done and will continue to do to keep America’s chickens healthy and our nation fed. In the spirit of gratitude, we want to highlight all that chicken farmers do for their flock and for our country.

This blog post originally appeared this week on NCC’s Chicken Check In blog and can be found here.

Chicken Farming Doesn’t Stop Even in Times of Crisis

Chicken farmers have done what it takes to provide food for Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. There is no virtual or remote option for farmers who raise broiler chickens, meaning they are out there every day to tend to their flock and feed families. Farmers are part of the essential workforce and we are grateful for their commitment during this time.

Chicken Farmers’ #1 Priority is the Health of their Flock

From when baby chicks arrive at the farm, to the time when broiler chickens are taken to be processed, the health of the flock is the number one priority of chicken farmers.

Farmers spend ample time getting barns, or growout houses, ready for their next flock to arrive on the farm. Contrary to popular belief, chickens raised for meat are never raised in cages but in large spaces.  Once the flock arrives, farmers check on their chickens at least three times a day to ensure the airflow, temperature and the wellness of the chickens are at the highest standards.

Farmers dedicate their lives to the safety and health of their chickens and for that Americans can feel secure about the meat they are buying for themselves and their families.

Providing America’s #1 Source of Protein

Chicken farmers and chicken industry employees are working around the clock to help keep grocery shelves stocked with our nation’s favorite protein: chicken. And for that honorable and essential service, we are grateful.

According to USDA, the U.S. will break another record in 2020 for chicken consumption, with Americans eating 98 pounds of chicken per person this year! It’s no surprise that Americans eat more chicken than any other protein, and for good reason. Shoppers across the nation love its taste, nutritional value, affordability, sustainability & versatility – chicken is a table-pleaser for eaters of all ages.

Thank You!

We would like to thank and commend our chicken farmers for their commitment to their flocks and for providing Americans with a source of healthy and nutritious protein. Chicken farming is an essential, 365 day a year job. Without chicken farmers and their dedication, we wouldn’t have the protein so many Americans depend on.

To see firsthand how chicken farmers raise their flocks, check out our Day in the Life video or get to know our chicken farmers up close and personal. You can hear from farmers like Jenny, Bet or Terry through our “Farmer Features” series.