The Manitoba Advantage in Chicken Protein

Manitoba's broiler chicken sector is strong and vibrant and is committed to food safety and animal health and welfare. Furthermore, Manitoba has access to quality feed grains, an economical and sustainable land base, and a good transportation network.

 
Image of roasted chicken garnished with roasted lemons, tomatoes and onions on a platter 
 

Manitoba’s Chicken Industry

The chicken industry in Manitoba includes poultry production and processing.

  • The province has a total of 124 farms, including broiler breeders and broiler hatcheries.
  • The broiler industry is a supply-managed commodity, allowing poultry supply to meet Canadians' demands.
  • Manitoba produces four per cent of Canada’s demand for poultry. In 2021, the production unit was 36 million birds generating 54 million kilograms of meat.
  • Manitoba chicken production generated $162 million in farm cash receipts in 2022.

Industry associations

Market and Consumer Trends

Chicken is the Number one meat protein of choice for Canadians, with consumption of about 34.4 kilograms per person in 2020. Chicken consumption in Canada has been increasing yearly and is currently at its highest level, up 2.8 kilograms from 2015. Canadian consumers consider chicken to be a lean, healthy, nutrient-dense, high-value meat protein.

Research

The University of Manitoba conducts research that focuses on the use of feed additives and novel feedstuffs designed to improve gut health and broiler production efficiency.

Chicken farmers in Manitoba support research related to poultry health and welfare, industry best practices, and food safety and sustainability through Manitoba Chicken Producers.

Contact

For more information about Manitoba's chicken sector or if you would like this information in an alternate format, email us at: agindustrydev@gov.mb.ca