Realfoodology Podcast Episode Summary
Episode Title: Can We Eat The Chicken? Urgent Bird Flu Updates & What You Need To Know | Peter McCollough
Host: Courtney Swan
Guest: Dr. Peter McCollough
Release Date: March 27, 2025
Produced By: Wellness Loud
Introduction
In this episode of Realfoodology, host Courtney Swan addresses the resurgence of bird flu, a topic stirring widespread concern and debate. Recognizing the anxiety among listeners regarding the safety of consuming eggs and chicken, Swan invites Dr. Peter McCollough, a renowned physician and health expert, to shed light on the current bird flu situation, government responses, and practical measures to protect both farmers and the general public.
The Current Bird Flu Situation
Courtney Swan (00:00):
"Bird flu is making headlines again. Are we looking at another overblown pandemic or is this one real?"
Dr. McCollough responds by acknowledging the polarized reactions surrounding bird flu, drawing parallels to the COVID-19 pandemic's public reception.
Dr. Peter McCollough (01:24):
"Well, clearly it's been, I think, hyped... something about bird flu just angers people."
He highlights the skepticism many feel, fearing another misinformation-driven crisis akin to COVID-19.
Biosecurity Protocols and Government Policies
Dr. McCollough delves into the biosecurity measures implemented since 2005, which have significantly impacted the poultry industry.
Dr. McCollough (01:45):
"Bird flu has been around for over 100 years. Around 2005, we started this disastrous biosecurity protocol."
He explains that the policy shifted from selectively culling infected birds to eradicating entire flocks upon detection of bird flu. This approach, intended to contain the virus, has inadvertently led to massive bird deaths due to reinfection from migratory waterfowl.
Dr. McCollough (02:45):
"What our government said is, listen, if you have to wipe out your whole flock, we'll give you a government check... So they kill all the birds. It's called culling."
Economic Impact and Perverse Incentives
The mandatory culling policy has not only devastated poultry populations but also disrupted egg supply chains, leading to soaring egg prices.
Dr. McCollough (03:33):
"When they sold their eggs at the market, it was at a much higher price point... So it's called perverse incentive."
Despite the increase in egg prices, farmers remain silent, benefiting financially from the higher market rates, while consumers bear the brunt of inflated costs.
Health Risks and Treatment Options
Addressing the health implications, Dr. McCollough emphasizes the importance of early intervention in bird flu cases.
Dr. McCollough (04:50):
"There's such a high concentration of iodine... We should have oseltamivir or Tamiflu on hand if started on day one."
He advocates for the use of iodine-based nasal sprays, throat gargles, and antiviral medications like Tamiflu to mitigate severe outcomes. Citing recent cases, he underscores the consequences of neglecting these preventive measures.
Dr. McCollough (05:50):
"At Wellness Company, we're stepping in to particularly protect human lives right now. And hopefully, new administration and the USDA... can get our bird flu biosecurity program on track."
Vaccine Concerns and Natural Immunity
A significant portion of the discussion critiques the reliance on vaccines for both animals and humans as ineffective and potentially harmful.
Dr. McCollough (06:06):
"Animal vaccines have failed... vaccinating humans looks, frankly, dangerous."
He expresses skepticism towards the development of bird flu vaccines, particularly those utilizing messenger RNA technology, highlighting adverse reactions in trials and questioning their efficacy and safety.
Dr. McCollough (07:01):
"Bird flu vaccines... are not the solution. Natural immunity is the solution."
He advocates for allowing natural immunity to develop in both birds and humans, arguing that vaccines may exacerbate the virus's evolution rather than control it.
Practical Advice for Consumers
In response to concerns about consuming poultry and eggs, Dr. McCollough provides clear guidance on food safety.
Dr. McCollough (07:59):
"If we cook to over 165 degrees, you're going to kill any bird flu organism."
He reassures listeners that properly cooked poultry and eggs are safe to eat, emphasizing that thorough cooking denatures the virus. Additionally, he warns against raw milk consumption due to the risk of transmission through dairy cows.
Dr. McCollough (08:46):
"The risk here is raw milk. So the virus will come out in raw milk... I wouldn't pick up a glass of raw milk right now."
Supporting Measures and Resources
Towards the end of the episode, Courtney Swan shares resources for listeners seeking to bolster their defenses against bird flu and other illnesses.
Courtney Swan (08:46):
"If you go to TWC Health and use Code Real Foodology, you are going to save 10% on any of the supplements that we talked about today."
She promotes the Prevent and Protect program by Wellness Company (TWC Health), which offers supplements and kits designed to help farmers and individuals safeguard their health against bird flu and similar viruses.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with a strong call to action for listeners to prioritize natural immunity, advocate for revised biosecurity policies, and adopt practical measures to protect their health and their food sources. Dr. McCollough and Courtney Swan reiterate the importance of informed decision-making amidst ongoing health crises.
Courtney Swan (09:30):
"For more shows by my team, go to wellnessloud.com see you next time."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Dr. Peter McCollough (01:24):
"Clearly it's been, I think, hyped... something about bird flu just angers people." -
Dr. Peter McCollough (02:45):
"They kill all the birds. It's called culling." -
Dr. Peter McCollough (03:33):
"It's called perverse incentive." -
Dr. Peter McCollough (06:06):
"Animal vaccines have failed... vaccinating humans looks, frankly, dangerous." -
Dr. Peter McCollough (07:01):
"Bird flu vaccines... are not the solution. Natural immunity is the solution." -
Dr. Peter McCollough (07:59):
"If we cook to over 165 degrees, you're going to kill any bird flu organism."
This episode of Realfoodology provides a comprehensive analysis of the bird flu crisis, critiquing current government policies, highlighting the economic and health impacts, and advocating for natural immunity and practical protective measures. Dr. Peter McCollough's insights offer listeners a grounded perspective on navigating the complexities of avian influenza in today's society.
