In 2010, Canada is predicted to have an increase in production, per-capita consumption and imports from the US. Canada’s per-capita consumption of chicken is projected to increase in 2010 due to economic growth and increasing health consciousness. Total 2009 Canadian consumption is forecast to remain relatively unchanged from 2008 levels.

Canada’s demand for broiler meat was supported by slightly negative perceptions of pork in the first half of 2009 due to the H1N1 virus. Total domestic chicken consumption in Canada has almost doubled in the past 20 years. Overall, Canadian preferences have shifted towards chicken primarily due to an increase in health awareness and the perception that chicken is leaner and therefore healthier than other meats.

Chicken retail prices in Canada have seen relatively stable growth over the last five year period with CY 2008 prices approximately 15 per cent higher than the average CY 2004 price. There has been a drop in prices for mid 2009 levels but the price is expected to return. The drop in price is mainly due to the low-pathogenic avian influenza in British Columbia and Saskatchewan reflecting reduced demand. Stability of chicken prices in Canada is mainly attributed to the continued supply management of the industry. Overall chicken is priced higher than beef and pork at the retail level in Canada.

Canada’s broiler meat production for January through August 2009 was 1.9 per cent lower compared to the same period for 2008; however, production of broiler meat is projected to recover in 2010 to 1.015 million metric tons (MMT) in order to meet consumer demand. Consumer demand will increase due to an increase in household consumption with a higher spending in the food service sector. Canada’s broiler meat production from January through August of 2009 is 1.9 per cent lower than the same period in 2008, resulting in moderately lower beginning stocks for 2010. With relatively high chicken prices in the retail sector and high consumption in the foodservice sector, a demand decrease caused by the ongoing economic recession reflects a slight decrease in Canada’s production.

Canada’s broiler meat production for January through August 2009 was 1.9 per cent lower compared to the same period for 2008; however, production of broiler meat is projected to recover in 2010 to 1.015 MMT in order to meet consumer demand. Consumer demand will increase due to an increase in household consumption with a higher spending in the food service sector. Canada’s broiler meat production from January through August of 2009 is 1.9 per cent lower than the same period in 2008, resulting in moderately lower beginning stocks for 2010. With relatively high chicken prices in the retail sector and high consumption in the foodservice sector, a demand decrease caused by the ongoing economic recession reflects a slight decrease in Canada’s production.

Further Reading

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