Driving innovation through research and partnerships
By Egg Farmers of CanadaOur comprehensive research program is shaping the future of Canada’s egg farming sector. Through the program, we support a wide variety of initiatives that support innovation and offer up critical insights for farmers, our stakeholders and Canadians.
Keep reading to discover all that this program encompasses and how it supports continuous improvement in the Canadian egg sector.
Research Chair Network
Our Research Chair Network is composed of esteemed experts dedicated to addressing key challenges and opportunities within the egg industry. Each member brings extensive experience and specialized knowledge, conducting research on critical issues while collaborating on interdisciplinary projects.
The network includes Dr. Maurice Doyon, Egg Industry Economic Research Chair at Université Laval, whose work focuses on the economic implications of the Canadian egg industry and supply management. Dr. Tina Widowski, Research Chair in Poultry Welfare at the University of Guelph, studies hen behaviour, welfare, and best practices for housing system management. Dr. Bruce Muirhead, Research Chair in Public Policy at the University of Waterloo, focuses on public policy that relates to the current and future challenges faced by the egg industry. Dr. Nathan Pelletier, Research Chair in Sustainability at the University of British Columbia, focuses on understanding the environmental impacts of egg farming, while exploring solutions that can reduce those impacts. Together, these experts drive innovation and progress within the industry.
Research partnerships
We collaborate with leading organizations such as the Egg Industry Center, Egg Nutrition Center, Canadian Poultry Research Council and the Alberta-based Poultry Innovation Partnership to advance shared research goals.
Student Innovation Challenge
The Student Innovation Challenge aims to continue engaging bright young minds for the industry’s future. This initiative supports next gen researchers by inviting post-secondary students from across Canada to share their cutting-edge research ideas and solutions for the egg sector. Last year’s finalists had the opportunity to showcase their projects to egg industry leaders.
Research Grant Program
Our Research Grant Program provides essential support to researchers and industry experts focusing on key priorities within our sector. These include a wide variety of areas, including animal care science, nutrition and health and new uses of eggs, among other priorities.
The grant program actively supports research projects at universities across Canada, helping to fund a wide range of projects that shape the future of the egg sector. Some of these past and current projects include:
Egg vs. whey protein: Dr. Philip Chilibeck from the University of Saskatchewan studied the effects of egg protein supplements on strength, muscle mass and fat reduction in men and women aged 18-35 who are actively training.
Understanding feather pecking in laying hens: Dr. Alexandra Harlander at the University of Guelph is seeking to identify simple probiotics that could prevent or reduce feather pecking in laying hens.
Fava beans as feed: Dr. Doug Korver from the University of Alberta is exploring the nutritional benefits of fava beans as an alternative feed for laying hens.
Eggshells in manufacturing: Dr. Lucas Hof from École de technologie supérieure in Montreal is studying the use of eggshells as a mortar filler in large-scale additive manufacturing.
Eggs for retina health: Dr. Miyoung Suh from the University of Manitoba is examining the impact of lutein and omega-3 DHA-enriched eggs on retina health in people with diabetes.
Check out our latest research summary to learn about our ongoing and completed research studies.
Our commitment to investing in evidence-based research continues to drive innovation in our sector and shape a bright future for the Canadian egg sector. Check out our website to learn more about our comprehensive research program.