The German poultry industry is issuing stark warnings about potential supply chain disruptions for eggs and poultry meat, citing the ongoing and increasingly problematic avian influenza crisis. Hans-Peter Goldnick, president of the Central Association of the German Poultry Industry (ZDG), is calling for immediate and decisive action from policymakers and regulatory bodies to mitigate the escalating threat.
The core of the concern lies in the current impasse surrounding vaccination strategies. While the ZDG advocates for broader implementation of preventative measures, other nations are currently refusing to import products derived from vaccinated poultry. This stance creates a significant hurdle, effectively limiting the efficacy of any domestic vaccination program and hindering international trade. Goldnick emphasized the necessity of a “debate about vaccination strategies, EU-wide adjustments to animal disease law and clarity for international trade.
The association’s spokesperson painted a grim picture of potential consequences if the situation isn’t tackled with urgency, suggesting “scope and damage” could reach levels leading to severe shortages. Already, hundreds of thousands of birds have been culled, a devastating measure for both the industry and the livelihoods dependent on it. While the supply of Christmas geese is presently secure, the ZDG is closely monitoring the situation, cautioning that a further deterioration could trigger logistical challenges.
Beyond the immediate supply concerns, the avian influenza outbreak is precipitating a quiet crisis for numerous German farms. The financial burden of infection control, alongside the psychological strain of widespread animal losses, is, in some instances, threatening the very existence of family-run businesses. This underscores a wider political question: how far will the government intervene to support vulnerable agricultural sectors facing unprecedented biological pressure and at what cost to consumers? Beyond economic considerations, the ethical implications of mass culling and the potential for farmer bankruptcy demand serious political scrutiny and a long-term strategy that moves beyond reactive measures. The ZDG’s plea isn’t merely about maintaining supply; it’s a signal of a sector desperately seeking political support to navigate a crisis with potentially far-reaching consequences.
