The state’s annual poultry donation has secured more than 200,000 pounds of poultry products.
Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch accepted the donation as part of the 72nd annual poultry donation. Crouch, the Indiana State Poultry Association, the Indiana State Department of Agriculture and Indianapolis-based Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana came together to provide poultry products to families.
“It is an honor to recognize our Hoosier poultry farmers with this tradition, which goes back 72 years,” Crouch said. “The products donated, not only today, but throughout the year, will go a long way in ensuring our Hoosiers in need have fresh and nutritious food to consume.”
The strength of Indiana’s poultry sector was also recognized during the ceremony as one of the top poultry producing states in the country.
According to the USDA National Agriculture Statistics Service, Indiana ranks first in duck production, second in chicken and egg production and fourth in turkey production.
The poultry industry contributes more than $12 billion in total economic activity to the state’s economy and employs more than 12,000 Hoosiers.
“Our ag economy in Indiana would not be where it is today without the hard work and dedication of our poultry producers,” said Bruce Kettler, ISDA Director. “They continue to increase economic value and expand the Hoosier supply chain, not only nationally, but globally as well.”
ISPA members continually give back to their local communities throughout the year. Paul Brennan, ISPA president, said during the last 12 months, ISPA members have contributed more than 900,000 eggs and 150,000 pounds of meat and egg products to their local communities.
“I can’t express enough how generous our poultry industry is and how proud I am of the farmers and processors involved in this incredible organization,” Brennan said. “They provide safe and healthy food options to consumers and continue to advance farm technology, all while donating products to countless Hoosiers throughout the year.”
The annual poultry donation dates back to the late 1940s, the state said. The event is designed to recognize the strength of Indiana’s poultry industry, as well as the annual donations made by its members, who are responsible for more than 95 percent of the chicken, duck, turkey and eggs produced in Indiana.
