Loading & Transport

Modular Loading

Transition on the Ontario Broiler Chicken Farm to Modular Loading

Modular loading is a proven handling system for transporting birds from the farm to processing facilities. It has already been successfully implemented in many jurisdictions within North America and around the world. Modular loading improves loading efficiency, bird welfare during handling and transport, meat quality and food safety. As well, pressure from consumers regarding animal welfare is driving the conversion to this new system. In order to implement this modular loading in Ontario, it is important to build or modify poultry operations to maximize its benefits. This Fact sheet explains how modular loading systems work and the physical requirements needed to use these modules. OMAFRA will have a new fact sheet available early April 2020 which will include Maxi Load mods.

OMAFRA New 2020 Fact Sheet Link

Chicken Farmers of Ontario Modular Loading FAQ’s Link

Transportation

The new CFIA Humane Transportation Regulations for livestock has now come into affect. For broiler chickens and spent hens the maximum interval without water is now 24 hours, and 28 hours without feed. For hatching birds (chicks only) the regulation has not changed; the maximum interval without feed and water is 72 hours from time of hatching. To download the full Transportation Fact Sheet, click the link below.

05_CFIA Livestock Transportation Fact Sheet_print

In an effort to improve transportation for fowl in cold weather, Maple Lodge Farms analyzed data comparing dolly and crate systems used to transport end of lay leghorns in Ontario, Canada. The full report from this study can be accessed by clicking on the link below.

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