Kentucky’s top commodity is bringing in recognition from the commonwealth

By: Ag. Reporter Mollie Goode

Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell has proclaimed September as poultry month in Kentucky. 

Kentucky’s poultry producers were honored by Shell for their significant contributions to the state’s economy, highlighting poultry as a leading commodity. 

Shell says, “Kentucky poultry producers are an economic engine for Kentucky, and we want to take this month to celebrate what our poultry producers contribute to our agricultural landscape.”

Kentucky’s poultry industry consists of broiler chickens, turkeys, and eggs—these commodities supported the $8.3 billion of revenue brought in during 2022 by poultry production. 

Kentucky Poultry Federation Executive Director Jamie Guffey says, “As poultry production continues to grow, it not only supports the expansion of other vital commodities like Kentucky corn and soybeans, but also provides a unique opportunity to bring the next generation back to the farm.” 

The state’s poultry industry supplies thousands of jobs for Kentucky citizens and is the largest buyer of Kentucky corn and soybeans. One in every four rows of corn planted goes directly back into poultry production to fuel the industry.