Gain of Function, Government Overreach, and the Battle to Save the Universal Ostrich Farm

In this explosive episode, Jason Lavigne speaks with Nicolas Hulscher about what may be one of the most shocking agricultural and scientific controversies in Canada — the CFIA’s push to destroy nearly 400 healthy ostriches at the Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood, BC.

The conversation goes far beyond headlines, exposing the possible gain-of-function origins of the H5N1 strain detected at the farm and its unusual genetic hybridization — the very kind of gene reassortment linked to laboratory manipulation. Nicolas and Jason examine how this revelation connects to global virology research networks and how the CFIA has refused to address these concerns while silencing independent experts.

They dig into the Federal Court’s narrow ruling, which upheld CFIA authority but ignored the opposing science — including Dr. Steven Pelech’s suppressed expert testimony. His research found 85% survival among the birds, confirmed antibodies to H5N1, and clear signs of natural immunity — evidence that contradicts the agency’s narrative and raises questions about what’s really behind the urgency to “stamp out” this flock.

Nicolas also shares first-hand accounts of the growing international attention from figures like Robert Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Oz, who have publicly called on Canada to preserve the flock for research rather than extermination.

Together, they confront the deeper issues: Was this strain engineered through gain-of-function activity? Why is CFIA blocking new testing? And what does this mean for the future of Canadian agriculture, transparency, and science?

Key Topics Covered:

- The gain-of-function origins and hybrid makeup of the H5N1 strain found at the farm
- CFIA’s refusal to allow third-party testing or independent oversight
- The Federal Court’s limited scope, focusing on authority over evidence
- Dr. Steven Pelech’s findings on antibodies, survival, and research value
- The financial and emotional cost to Katie Pasitney and her farm
- The U.S. administration’s and public figures’ calls to save the flock
- Why the “stamping-out” approach is scientifically outdated and morally wrong

This is not just about a farm — it’s about the intersection of science, government power, and public accountability in post-pandemic Canada.

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