Q: I just read an article about chickens being one of the largest exports in Georgia. Why can’t the countries these chickens are sent to grow their own chickens instead of exporting so many from the

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Q: I just read an article about chickens being one of the largest exports in Georgia.

Why can’t the countries these chickens are sent to grow their own chickens instead of exporting so many from the United States? — Bob Markert, Roswell

A: The U.S. exports chickens mainly because we produce more than we consume, said Scott Hansohn, manager of technical communications for the Stone Mountain-based USA Poultry & Egg Export Council.

He said chicken producers can grow a full-size chicken for consumption in about 40 to 45 days.

The time frame is so short because of scientific advancements that have been made with feed, genetics, proper nutrients and optimal conditions for raising the birds, he said.

“A lot of money and research has gone into producing the perfect bird, as quickly as possible,” he said.

Other countries are not as technologically advanced in this area as the U.S., so they need to import chickens because they eat more than they can produce.

“The climate in Georgia happens to be perfect for growing chickens, as is the case with much of the South,” Hansohn said.

“Places such as Russia, it gets too cold in certain parts of the year, or in places like Africa, there isn’t enough water for the birds. It just so happens that in Georgia, the conditions are optimal.”

Lori Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or e-mail q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).