Research Information System
XII. European Poultry Conference, Italy, 1 - 04 September 2006, pp.456, (Full Text)
Having a relatively young population, Turkey has a quite low level of animal protein consumption. Poultry as a comparatively economical way of producing animal protein plays a critical role in alleviating this deficiency. Poultry industry displayed a fast growth in the last fifteen years in Turkey. However, the present consumption of eggs and poultry meat is low and not diversified; almost all of the domestic demand is met with chicken meat and eggs. Quail production for meat and egg purposes has started recently. The aim of this survey is to explore the present structure of quail production based on empirical data collected from seven largest farms as well as the Faculty of Agriculture in Antalya, Turkey. The survey was focused on producers’ management practices and problems. The findings were presented with descriptive statistical measures. All the farms including that of the Faculty produced 1 257 000 eggs and 210 500 quail carcasses annually. Two of the private farms produced both meat and eggs, three farms produced eggs only, and two others produced meat. All farms, excluding one, had their own hatcheries. Only one farm had hygienic slaughter equipment. Three farms sold directly to supermarkets while others used intermediaries. The most important problems of the producers were lack of consumer awareness of quail products, high feed prices, insufficient extension services, and strong bargaining power of intermediaries. Some retailers and intermediaries reported that the supply level was below the present market demand. Being a major tourist destination and with its expanding population particularly in the summer, Antalya is an attractive market for quail products. Depending on the support provided by related institutions, quail production will be increased. This will make a positive contribution to the improvement of human nutrition and producer returns.