Are Eggs And Dairy Still On The Menu? What To Know About The Ongoing Bird Flu Outbreak
The recent spread of avian influenza, also known as bird flu outbreak, among dairy cattle in multiple US states has understandably raised concerns for consumers north of the border. With Idaho and Michigan now confirming cases of H5N1 in livestock, some are questioning whether foods like eggs and dairy could potentially spread the virus. However, Canadian experts say proper precautions mean these items remain safe to enjoy.
Matthew Miller, director of McMaster University’s infectious disease research institute, stated definitively that the ongoing bird flu outbreak poses “not a food safety issue” for Canadians. Ongoing agricultural surveillance and processing standards protect consumers, though all should still follow cooking guidelines to kill other foodborne bacteria. Canada’s food inspection agency also confirms not detecting the virus in domestic animals to date.
What The Experts Say
Representatives from Canada’s dairy and egg industries reinforced the message. As Lucie Boileau of Dairy Farmers of Canada noted, Canadian milk comes only from healthy cows under high biosecurity standards. And Pam Passerino of Egg Farmers Ontario said consumers can feel assured, as the CFIA views this as “not a food safety issue” when handled and cooked properly.
Most importantly, experts stress the need to prevent human infections. While unlikely to spread far if it reaches people, we must spare no effort to avoid initial animal-to-human transmission events. Though tired of pandemics, continuing robust prevention “is infinitely cheaper than responding to one”, Miller warned. For now, thoroughly cook eggs, poultry and meat as usual – and avoid contact with sick or dead birds during the ongoing bird flu outbreak.
