Bovine TB case in Sask. could have painful consequences

Jul 07, 2023

Two cows from a Saskatchewan ranch have tested positive for bovine tuberculosis, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

In February, the U.S. Department of Agriculture notified CFIA of a positive test for bovine TB in a tissue sample from a cow exported to an American feedlot from Saskatchewan in September 2022.

The herd of origin was tested in May, reactor animals slaughtered and two cases of bovine TB confirmed June 19.

The next steps could be painful for ranchers as CFIA officials begin to identify the origin of the infected cows and any contacts they may have had with other herds. Based on past circumstances, these measures have resulted in large-scale culling to stamp out the disease.

“The standard epidemiological approach will apply,” said Dr. Jamie Rothenburger, assistant professor at the University of Calgary’s faculty of veterinary medicine.

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Video: Genomic Technologies and Public Trust - Dr. Ellen Goddard

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Ellen Goddard, Professor Emerita at the University of Alberta, discusses public acceptance of genomic technologies in pork production. She explains why disease resistance is viewed positively, how labeling affects trust, why farmers remain highly credible messengers, and how communication can shape consumer confidence around gene editing. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Not providing information is a choice that can affect long-term public trust."

Meet the guest: Dr. Ellen Goddard / ellen-goddard-11541138 is Professor Emerita at the University of Alberta and an agricultural economist. Her work focuses on consumer behavior, trust, livestock sectors, and public attitudes toward food technologies. She also specializes in economic modeling for pork, beef, and dairy systems. Learn more from Dr. Ellen Goddard on the Swine in Canada Podcast Show, available on all major platforms.