Our Process
Saskatchewan’s chicken farming community is made up of 68 registered farmers across 74 farms, along with specialized breeders, hatcheries, and processors. Together, they produce millions of chickens each year, creating thousands of jobs and contributing $471 million to the province’s GDP.
Step 1
Planning
The chicken industry evaluates market needs and plans production in eight-week cycles to meet demand.
Step 2
Breeding
Broiler breeders raise hens and roosters who produce the fertilized eggs that hatch into broiler chickens. These high-quality eggs are carefully collected and sent to hatcheries for incubation.
Step 3
Hatching
In the hatchery, eggs are incubated for around 21 days. Once the chicks hatch, they’re quickly transported to the farms, ready to start their growth journey.
Step 4
On the Farm
Before chicks arrive, barns are warmed to a cozy 28–32°C, with fresh bedding, food, and water available at all times. In Saskatchewan, all broiler chickens are raised “free run,” allowing them to roam freely within the barn.
Step 5
Maturing
Chickens are fed a nutritious diet of grains, seeds, and proteins, plus essential vitamins and minerals. Hormones and steroids are strictly prohibited by federal regulations in Canada.
Broilers grow to an ideal market weight of about 2 kg over 35–40 days. Farmers monitor their health, ensuring they have everything they need for optimal growth.
Step 6
Processing and Delivery
When broilers are ready, they’re carefully transported to the processing plant in trucks specially designed for their comfort and safety. The processors work closely with farmers to ensure a smooth and humane transition.
Step 7