Choking on changes to hotdogs Monday, April 5, 2010 Pediatricians in the United States want the federal Food and Drug Administration to require hazard labels on hotdogs. Of 141 choking deaths in 2006, 41 were food-related. Hot dogs wouldn't be the only food to get that label, normally required on toys with small parts. The American Academy of Pediatrics wants to add raw carrots, grapes, apples, hard candies, popcorn, peanuts and marshmallows. Doctors want parents to cut these foods into pieces too small to cause choking and believe that labels would be an extra step to prevent deaths.Redesigning foods has been considered. Janet Riley, president of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, says hot dogs would cost more precut, and she isn't sure that consumers would be happy with more crumbly wieners. "Consistency is part of the hot dog's appeal."Riley says about half of hot dog packages sold are already labelled as a possible choking hazard. BP Hog Farmer editor says 'business as usual' Smoke and mirrors on 'free range' in Oz?
Plant Essential Oils Boost Swine Growth Monday, April 6, 2026 A long-term study conducted by researchers at the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, has highlighted the potential of plant-based essential oils as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters in swine production.... Read this article online
Alberta Water Reporting Rules May Ease for Small Farms Monday, April 6, 2026 The Government of Alberta has introduced changes to the Water Act that will require mandatory water use reporting. These new rules aim to improve water management and ensure sustainable use of resources. However, discussions are ongoing, and farmers still have an opportunity to shape how... Read this article online
Ag in the House: March 23 – 26 Monday, April 6, 2026 During the March 25 session of question period, Conservative Ag Critic John Barlow wondered which Liberal policies have hurt farmers the most. “Is it the fact that the Liberals are closing seven research centres and firing hundreds of scientists? Is it because we are the only G7 country... Read this article online
Operating farm equipment in Manitoba Monday, April 6, 2026 Farms.com’s third look into insurance and road rules for farm equipment in Canada is for Manitoba’s ag community. Do Manitobans need a license to drive a tractor? If the driver is at least 16, and the tractor is on private land, or temporarily on a public road for travel between fields... Read this article online
Study reveals key climate drivers of potato beetle outbreaks Monday, April 6, 2026 A long term research project from Michigan State University (MSU) and the University of Wisconsin is offering new insight into what drives Colorado potato beetle outbreaks, giving US potato growers a clearer picture of how weather patterns and environmental conditions shape one of the... Read this article online