Healthy Animals, Healthy Humans

Mar 27, 2025

Dr. Hooman Derakhshani, Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, is exploring the natural gut microbiome, aiming to create the next generation of probiotics for livestock.

He has been awarded a Canada Foundation for Innovation, John Evans Leadership Fund grant to investigate the potential of natural gut compounds to replace the conventional antibiotics given to livestock. This research plays a crucial role in addressing growing concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and drug resistance pathogens in livestock.

Foodborne illness and antibiotic resistance

Foodborne illnesses caused by E. coli, Salmonella and other intestinal pathogens often lead to product recalls and serious health concerns for consumers. These pathogens are also common causes of intestinal infections in farm animals, resulting in diseases that can decrease farm productivity and profit. To control harmful bacteria, the livestock industry uses common antibiotics and antimicrobials to help keep their livestock healthy. However, researchers and producers are increasingly concerned because more animals, like humans, are growing resistant to these treatments, raising concerns for animal and human health.

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Video: You Be The Judge: Evaluating 8 Breeding Rams!

It's time for some honest feedback here at Ewetopia Farms! Today, we’re showing you all eight rams we used for breeding this year. Instead of just presenting them, we thought it would be fun to create a “Ram Report Card” — where we point out both their strengths and areas for improvement.

But here’s the twist: you be the judge! In the comments, let us know what you like about each ram and what you think could be improved. No ram is ever perfect, but every one of them brings something valuable to the flock. By sharing perspectives, we all learn more about what to look for in good breeding stock.

At Ewetopia Farms, we raise registered Suffolk and Polled Dorset sheep, focusing on high-quality genetics, structure, and friendly temperaments. Evaluating breeding rams is part of the bigger picture of building stronger flocks — and we’re excited to share the process with you.

If you enjoy seeing how we evaluate our animals, follow along by subscribing to our channel. We share daily insights into the joys and challenges of sheep farming here in Canada.