The objectives of the tour were to see Salmonella interventions used for egg safety in the EU (Lion Quality Program in the UK) and explore the animal welfare situation as it relates to egg safety and the US industry. The group spent two days in the UK, hearing from experts on the renowned Lion Quality programme, which mandates vaccination of hens for Salmonella.

Ceva arranged presentations from leading authorities in Salmonella control for the group, including Dr Rob Davies at the well respected VLA Lab at Weybridge.

While in the UK, Noble Foods, the largest egg producer in the country, opened their doors for the group to see first-hand how enriched colony systems work in the EU.

The group then traveled to Eindhoven in the Netherlands. The programme there included a day at the Vencomatic headquarters for presentations on the EU approach towards enriched systems as well as a farm tour of the internationally known free-range style Rondeel Farm. (google: Rondeel Egg Farm).

Presentations on the EU's egg traceability programme rounded off the tour.

North American Zone Poultry Marketing Director, Gary Baxter said it best: "Euronella 2011sets the bar high for Ceva's continued approach towards 'direct' marketing for the animal segments where we want to remain strong. This was a great opportunity to exchange and share experiences in Salmonella control and animal welfare for egg producers on both continents."

Corporate Layer range manager, Rick van Oort commented: "The UK and the Netherlands are among the countries that are far advanced when it comes to implementing Salmonella control and the development and practical experience of alternative housing systems."