TUCKER, Ga. – Antibiotic use in the poultry industry, which has been under widespread scrutiny, will be a key topic at the 2010 Poultry Production & Health Seminar. Sponsored by U.S. Poultry & Egg Association's Poultry & Egg Institute, the annual conference takes place Sept. 21-22, at the Peabody Hotel in Memphis, Tenn.

"Antibiotics play an important role in maintaining healthy birds," said Frank Halpin, program chairman and Pilgrim's Pride Corporation executive. "The U.S. Department of Agriculture is questioning the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture, suggesting that they may cause antimicrobial resistance. This year's seminar will examine the impact proposed restrictions will have on live production, and the challenges live production managers and service representatives may face in the future," he added.

Other program topics include Lighting Programs to Enhance Performance; Salmonella Standards for Live Production; Litter Management; Vaccination Programs; as well as other relevant topics to help maintain healthy flocks.