EFSA’s new toolkit to bolster farm biosecurity as bird flu season approaches

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Commission have unveiled a toolkit to help farmers safeguard poultry and consumers from avian influenza.

The toolkit, which uses the hashtag #NoBirdFlu, coincides with Europe’s migratory season. It is designed to raise awareness of the importance of biosecurity, particularly on small and medium-sized farms. 

By adopting these measures, farmers can protect both animal and public health, ensure food production stability, and minimize disruptions to global trade.

Commenting on the toolkit’s launch, Nikolaus Kriz, EFSA’s executive director, says it highlights how to prevent future crises. “We can protect our animals, secure food systems, and build resilience against future health threats.”

Flock protection 

Claire Bury, deputy director general for food sustainability at the European Commission, explains that “everyone must play their part” in preventing new outbreaks with winter approaching and the threat of avian influenza rising.

“Simple precautions can have a significant impact in reducing the spread of this serious disease. This campaign provides practical guidance to help protect flocks and safeguard Europe’s poultry sector.”

Notably, avian influenza outbreaks can devastate poultry populations, disrupt supply chains, harm farmers’ livelihoods, and impact public health. Incidents of avian influenza in Europe typically rise during the winter months as migratory birds travel and cluster across the continent. 

These proactive measures, outlined in the toolkit, are critical to prevent the virus from entering or spreading on farms. EFSA says every individual interacting with a farm — whether a worker, supplier, or visitor — plays a role in keeping poultry safe.

What’s next?

The European Commission has requested that EFSA research the risks of European farmers, veterinarians, and farm workers regarding avian influenza to better develop awareness campaigns. 

This data will then inform a broader EU-wide initiative in 2026 designed to strengthen preparedness plans against avian influenza and help reduce the risk of future pandemics.

Earlier this year, the US government spent US$1 billion to tackle the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), protect the US poultry industry, and lower egg prices. These prices have surged in recent months and are predicted to rise by more than 40% this year alone. 

In March, Food Ingredients First reported that the US planned to ease rising egg prices by importing millions of eggs from countries such as Turkey and South Korea. The strategy was part of the government’s five-pronged approach to combating HPAI and lowering egg prices spiked by bird flu.

Additionally, US shell egg exports have declined by 8%, ensuring more eggs remain in the domestic market to help stabilize prices.