Established in 1974, Turkey Farmers of Canada (TFC) is the national organization representing over 510 turkey farmers across the country. It operates as the national marketing agency (legally the Canadian Turkey Marketing Agency) to ensure a stable and sustainable turkey industry in Canada.
Core Functions & Services:
- Supply Management: Oversees the national supply management system for turkey, balancing production with consumer demand to ensure stable prices for consumers and fair returns for farmers.
- Marketing & Promotion: Manages national branding and promotional campaigns (such as “Think Turkey”) to encourage the consumption of Canadian turkey year-round.
- On-Farm Standards: Administers national programs for food safety and animal care, ensuring high standards for bird health, antibiotics use, and biosecurity (including Avian Influenza monitoring).
- Research & Sustainability: Funds and disseminates research on poultry health, nutrition, and sustainable farming practices to keep the Canadian industry competitive.
- International Trade & Advocacy: Represents the interests of the Canadian turkey industry in international trade negotiations and provides industry facts, stats, and regulatory oversight.
- Education: Provides resources for the public and industry members, including virtual farm tours, annual reports, and nutritional information via their consumer-facing site (canadianturkey.ca).
Primary Objective:
To foster a strong, vibrant, and cooperative Canadian turkey industry while delivering high-quality, responsibly raised protein to Canadian tables.