Letter from the Maryland Department of Agriculture

Note: This letter was sent to COK with the letter from the Sheriff’s office.

December 4, 2002

Cpl. Glenn M. Owens
Kent County Sheriff’s Office
104 Vickers Drive, Unit B
Chestertown, MD 21620

Dear Cpl. Owens,

In response to your request for information concerning the operations of Red Bird Egg Farms, Inc. laying operation in Millington, Maryland, they are regulated by our agency primarily for food safety and quality purposes. We routinely inspect their processing and production facilities as part of their participation in the Maryland Egg Quality Assurance Program. As a result, I am familiar with the methods they use to produce eggs.

A caged housing system is used at this facility. Based on my training and experience in regulating this industry, this is common industry practice. The majority of egg producers in Maryland and the rest of the United States use similar systems.

Recently, the United Egg Producer has developed an animal care program for laying hens that is based on recommendations from experts in this area. This program is accepted by many of the food industry groups (food processors, retailers, wholesalers, fast food restaurants) as the standard for animal care. Red Bird Egg Farms, Inc. is a participant in this program.

If you need additional information, please contact me.

Sincerely,

Deanna L. Baldwin
Program Manager

The Investigation | Photo Gallery | Documents | How to Help | NY Times Exclusive | National AP Article