There was a time when consumers didn’t look beyond the grocery store when assessing their food options. Today, many want to know how ag products were produced and processed — going all the way back to the farm.
Livestock welfare will be the focus at the 2012 Animal Farm Animal Care (AFAC) conference scheduled for March 21 and 22 at the Holiday Inn 67th Street in Red Deer.
Most of the sessions will take place on the second day, including a presentation by Charlie Arnot, CEO of the United States Centre for Food Integrity. Glynn Tonsor of Kansas State University will speak on consumer expectations and their economic impact; and Gene Gregory, president of the United Egg Producers, U.S.A., will discuss partnerships between his organization and the Humane Society.
Also on the agenda will be the retail perspective and its impact on producers, consumer perceptions, and the progressive practices of some Alberta producers.
Cost to attend the conference is $155, or $175 for registrations after Feb. 28. Students and ALERT line veterinarians are eligible for reduced rates.
For more information or to register, go to conferences.abvma.ca or call the Alberta Veterinarian Medical Association office at 780-489-5007.