The chicken industry in the United States is currently a $30 billion industry, but it had humble beginnings back in 1923. Back then, people kept chickens at home for eggs, using them for meat when their egg production declined. Cecile Steele, a Delaware homemaker and farmer, found herself with 500 chickens due to a delivery error. She raised and sold the chickens, sparking a shift in the industry towards raising chickens primarily for meat.
Cecile Steele: The Accidental Founder of the Modern-Day Chicken Industry
When a hatchery error sent Cecile Steele 500 chickens instead of 50 in 1923, she had to adapt. She raised and sold the birds at a profitable rate, leading to further expansion of her chicken business. Her success influenced other farmers to shift towards raising chickens primarily for meat, changing the industry landscape.
Expansion of The Chicken Industry
Cecile’s success, along with economic prosperity in the 1920s, led to a boom in the chicken industry. Advancements in agriculture and nutrition, such as the discovery of Vitamin D for chicken feed, further fueled the industry’s growth and popularity.
The Evolution of Chicken
Today, chicken is the most popular meat in the United States, accounting for 44% of meat consumption. Its affordability and perceived health benefits have solidified its popularity, all stemming from a simple mistake made 100 years ago.
Sources
- “How a shipping error 100 years ago launched the $30 billion chicken industry.” VOX. Kenny Torrella. February 10, 2023.
- “1923 shipping mistake led to Delmarva chicken industry.” Delaware Online. Ken Mammarella. January 13, 2015.
