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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedSeptember 6, 2026Miami-Dade

Ostrich farms expand to meet demand from people with alpha-gal syndrome

Ostrich farms in Kentucky and Texas are increasing their herds to provide a red-meat alternative for people diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-borne allergy to mammalian meat. Because ostrich meat is poultry, it is safe for those with the allergy, which has seen rising awareness and diagnosis rates in the U.S.

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Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main Feed

Why It Matters

People with face life-threatening reactions to beef and other mammalian meats, creating a niche market for ostrich meat that is currently driving expansion in the U.S. ostrich farming industry.

Key Facts

  • Alpha-gal syndrome is a life-threatening allergy to red meat triggered by tick bites.
  • Ostrich meat is considered poultry and is safe for individuals with alpha-gal syndrome.
  • Alpha Roost Farms in Kentucky plans to grow its herd from 400 to 700 birds by next year.
  • Ground ostrich meat can cost over $20 per pound, with choice cuts exceeding $40 per pound.
  • A 2023 government report estimated 100,000 U.S. cases of alpha-gal, though experts suggest the number could be up to 500,000.
  • The U.S. ostrich industry experienced a market crash in the 1990s due to improper farming techniques.
  • There are currently estimated to be only 10 to 15 large-scale ostrich farms operating in the U.S.
  • Alpha-gal syndrome was first linked to tick bites in 2011.
  • The first documented death related to alpha-gal occurred in 2024 involving a 47-year-old New Jersey man.

Who's Mentioned

personW.D. King“Owner of Alpha Roost Farms.”personBoyd Clark“Operator of Clark Ostrich Farm in Texas.”personBrent Williams“Nutritionist and partner at Alpha Roost Farms who has alpha-gal syndrome.”personLeah Gibbs“Operator of Dry Branch Farm market.”organizationAlpha Roost Farms“Ostrich farm located in Danville, Kentucky.”organizationAmerican Ostrich Association“Industry trade group.”organizationAlpha-Gal Association“Nonprofit advocacy group for people with the allergy.”personMichael Lehman“Vice president of the American Ostrich Association.”