eggs

the number of producers in Canada (in round numbers)

~1140

the number of animals in Canada (in round numbers)

19.4 million laying hens, which is around 30-35th in the world.

the distribution of animals across Canada

Western Canada and Ontario

production system components and type (intensive vs extensive)

mix of intensive and extensive

type(s) of feed used, competition for that feed (or ingredients like corn for ethanol)

alt feeds are insect protein and human food scraps

production expenses (what are the inputs and which one is the most expensive)

feed is the most expensive input

production revenues (what are the outputs – including intermediate products like calves

eggs and poop

the economic impact of the industry in Canada

• ~$1.17Billion in farm cash receipts

• Per capita consumption 14.37kg

– Up 26% since 2009

commonly used breed(s) in purebreds or contributing to crossbreds

White eggs:

• One of several varieties of Leghorns

Brown eggs:

• Typically produced by Rhode Island Reds and other dual-purpose breeds.

production cycle times within each sector

It starts with hens. Hens lay eggs at ~19 weeks old. They usually lay eggs in the day time and they will lay for 12 months. 

is Canada a net importer / exporter in that product area

importer 

supply management (or not)

yes

where Canada fits on the world stage in this industry

What are 'functional foods' in the context of egg production?

Foods enriched with specific health benefits, in eggs this includes: Omega-3 enriched and Lutein enriched. Farmers also add carotenoids to hens diet to make the eggs more orange.

What are some market trends and health perceptions affecting egg consumption?

• Previous concerns with increasing cholesterol.

• Alternative processing such as white-only products.

• Fluctuating research outcomes / opinions.

what kind of cages to hens have?

They used to have battery cages, but now they’re either free run or have enhanced cages with more space, perches and dust baths.