GUELPH – Six University of Guelph researchers have received over $3 million from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) through the Canadian Poultry Research Council (CPRC) to explore novel approaches to improving poultry health and food safety.
These contributions will fund eight separate projects focused on different aspects of poultry health and food safety, such as:
– investigating the use of new feed ingredients and food safety measures;
– determining effects of climate change on gut health; and
– virus transmission and exploring alternative disease therapies and waste management solutions.
“Each of these projects exemplifies the University of Guelph’s dedication to research excellence and underscores the commitment of our researchers to develop sustainable agricultural solutions for Canada’s poultry sector,” says Dr. Shayan Sharif, acting vice-president, research and innovation.
“I am honoured to have two of my own projects funded among such a distinguished group,” added Sharif.
“We are grateful to our valued partners for their generous support of these vitally important initiatives. These projects will improve poultry and human health and enhance consumer confidence in Canadian agricultural products.”
This funding is part of more than $5.1 million provided to the Canadian Poultry Research Council through the AgriScience Program – Clusters Component, an initiative under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
“Investments in research are vitally important to the future of our agricultural sector,” says Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food in Canada.
“By making sure our hardworking poultry farmers are using best practices and adopting innovative solutions, we’re not only strengthening our economy, we’re building a resilient industry that meets the needs of consumers, while protecting our environment for generations to come.”
These projects will leverage funding from across industry, as well as provincial and federal governments, including the Canada First Research Excellence Fund and the Government of Ontario through the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, to support a thriving and competitive agri-food sector.
The six University of Guelph researchers are:
– Dr. Shayan Sharif;
– Dr. Alexandra Harlander;
– Dr. Nicole Ricker;
– Dr. Elijah Kiarie;
– Dr. Animesh Dutta; and
– Dr. Keith Warriner.
