I find your show very enlightening and informative. This particular story about bedbugs was shocking, especially when the exterminator said that the problem is increasing in North America. I had read on a travel review site that some people recommend sprinkling your hotel bed with talcum powder. This was supposed to smother them. I listened for Wendy, on the program, to offer some advice about what precautions could be taken when checking in but when she didn't, I have now put the "talcum powder" theory in the category of "old wives' tale". It would have been beneficial if the story could have elaborated a bit more on how the bedbugs are finding their way to our homes and businesses. Did they originate in North America or are they native to another country and brought into Canada/US by travelers. Would regular vacuuming of the bed be helpful as is advocated for dust mites? Posted by: M. MacKenzie | Feb 14, 07 08:01 PM

In regards to your egg story. I don't know anyone who buys free run, free range or organic eggs because they're healthier. I buy them because I think the chickens have an incrementally better life than the ones crammed into cages. As well, organic eggs reduce the use of pesticdes and fertilizers used to grow the grain which benefits the environment. Not everyone is quite so ego centric as to buy certain eggs only because they're good for you. Posted by: Rob Thompson | Feb 14, 07 08:02 PM

I have survived the experience of living in a beg bug infested place. It was truly an awful experience! It seemed at one point, my only hope was to burn everything; & they can live dormant within the walls. It is not something I would wish on even my worst enemy. I am mortified to think that they are that rampant-in hotels-I have even heard of restautants being infested with them-they can be picked up on your clothing, and carried home. It is definitely a health issue-I would feel extremely violated if I was to stay in a hotel that was knowingly contaminated, and possibly contaminate other living quarters. Now that I have children, I would never live in a residence that is being treated to eradicate them-you cannot even wash the floor-for a long time-it is either that-or put out more chemical-the bed bugs actually crawl into the walls & closets and hide in the dark. It would be nice if any place that may be contimated with these critters was made public! It was my Public Health nurse that alerted me to how to find out if it indeed was bed bugs-spray around the room with RAID-it won't kill them-but it slows them down-leave the room dark for about 20 minutes-when you go back & turn the light on-you can see them crawling to get away from the light-they are usually very quick-but the Raid slows them down enough to be seen. thank you! previously bit!!! Posted by: Virginia | Feb 14, 07 08:07 PM

In your story about eggs you minimize the decision to buy eggs obtained from free-range or free-run chickens, suggesting that most people might be buying these eggs (mistakenly) for health reasons and not for animal welfare reasons. Yet you do no research to see if indeed this is true. The majority of Canadians who buy these eggs DO buy them for animal welfare reasons. In fact, we were the ones who demanded that the industry change to give us this option! Skeptical, inquiring journalism is great; cynical sloppy assumptions are not. Free-run eggs were a consumer-driven development. A bit more in-depth research would have uncovered this fact. Posted by: E. White | Feb 14, 07 08:10 PM

This summer we had bed bugs. Long & frustrating story short - professional pest control sprayed three times (at the time I was pregnant & concerned about the effects of the spray) The insects kept coming back. The only way we eliminated them was through weekly vacuuming, ( removing the vacuum bag disposing of it outside of the home imediately after), steaming with a pressure steamer & laundering clothes & bedding in hot water, hot dryer. Both the vacuum & steamer from Canadian Tire, cost a fraction of the cost of pest control and were less work than prepairing for spraying (big job). Please spread the word that these things work. No one wants to talk about this problem and this treatment is so much easier & less toxic. Posted by: Jade | Feb 14, 07 08:20 PM

To Whom it May Concern: I have had the good fortune to watch Marketplace for more years than I can remember but this evening's two presentations seemed to misfire badly. Concerning the bed-bugs story, it was surprising (shocking really) that no mention was made of the dangers of occupying a room that has been sprayed with pesticides. Did I miss something? We saw a good deal of protective clothing put on, breathing masks, were told the room was disinfected 3 times, and then ... what?? I suggest the topic of pesticide residue in hotel rooms might also make for a rather interesting investigation. As much as I hate bed-bugs (yes, let's get rid of the species entirely) I think one might genuinely be concerned with the lingering effects of the relevant toxic agents used to kill these criters. On a sliding scale of importance, I would have thought a consumer protection program would have taken the later issue as perhaps of greater weight. The second story, on eggs, was informative concerning one element involved in guiding egg selection; namely, the nutritional differences between the various products. But apart from one in-passing reference, no attention was directed to other relevant criteria that consumers use when making these purchases, i.e., difference in taste and concern for the conditions of the animals involved in the productive process. These seem to be of substantial importance in determining product choice. Yours, Paul Abela Posted by: Paul Abela | Feb 14, 07 08:34 PM

Your piece about eggs was most interesting. I get free range(meaning they are outdoors eating whatever) because they TASTE BETTER. Reminds me of the eggs I ate as a child when I lived on a farm and the chickens ran about the yard. Elaine Posted by: Elaine McCrorie | Feb 14, 07 09:17 PM

After watching the show, I was left with the question, "What can we do to prevent these bed bugs from entering our homes, hotels, inns"? Posted by: Christina | Feb 14, 07 09:54 PM

What happened to your test for pesticides ? You brought it up in the article on eggs then dropped it. Please do this test for herbicides and pesticides in the egg types you looked at. Thanks Posted by: ian gregson | Feb 14, 07 10:59 PM

your story on the eggs was a blatant attempt to make the people who bought freerange/freerun/organic egge look silly by compairing the nutrient value of the eggs. A large portion of people who buy freerange/freerun/organic eggs do so because of the inhumane treatment of battery farm chickens! NOT for the nutrient content.....wake-up cbc!!!!!! Posted by: lee shadenbury | Feb 14, 07 11:03 PM

I am a Canadian citizen and I was exposed to bed bugs at a hotel in Florida about 2 years ago. I had bumps all over my legs, back, and arms, and my face was so bumpy that I looked like I had severe acne. I was sore and itchy for atleast a couple of weeks and had to get special body shampoo from the doctor to help as well as take anithistamines. I remember seeing the bugs crawling around in my bed. I would squash a bug and there would be a blood spot were I killed it. It was so disgusting, I even flew home to Canada early to get away. I still have bumpy skin on my back and arms, when before the bed bug incident, I had smooth skin. I did take pictures of my arms, face and upper shoulders just in case. I complained to the reception many times before finally, after two days and nights in the bed bug infested room, they switched me to a different room, where there were still bed bugs. When I did get home, I had to make sure everything was cleaned properly, just in case one of my suitcases brought bed bugs home. I will never forget it, I felt so disgusting, like bugs were crawling all over me, I looked terrible and felt terrible. Waking up to blood spots all over the bed I was sleeping in scared me. I just thought I would share my experience because alot of people that I talked to didn't think it was a big deal, but I did and always will. I feel bad for those who have experienced bed bugs, but I am glad I am not alone. Should I have done something about this situation? Posted by: Erin Gammel, 2004 Olympian for Canadian Swim Team | Feb 14, 07 11:09 PM

Did anyone at CBC even consider the welfare of the chickens may be the difference. It is incredibly frustrating to see the same old mindset where the only thing that matters is saving consumers pocket change. I watched this show hoping there would be some discussion about consumers having the choice to buy eggs from chickens reared under reasonably humane conditions rather than the atrocious conditions found on factory farms. What a disappointment. Posted by: Tove Reece | Feb 14, 07 11:24 PM

Eating organically is more about human responsibility than personal health. The locally grown organic egg or stalk of broccoli may not be superior nutritionally but it is better for the land, the animals, and your community than the corporate version which is concerned about profit, and nothing else. I'm surprised you didn't understand this and make that comparison. Posted by: Peter Wilson | Feb 14, 07 11:57 PM

Wendy Mesley's piece on egg marketing implied that organic and free-range/-run eggs aren't worth the extra cost because these eggs are nutritionally equivalent to their conventional counterparts. Ms. Wesley apparently does not understand that the nutritional benefit of organic food is not the issue. Many people who buy organic are willing to pay a bit more to support sustainable, pesticide-free agriculture; ditto for eggs produced by chickens that aren't raised under heinous factory-farm conditions. I do not feel that I'm being manipulated by egg marketing propaganda because I choose to buy free-range or organic foods. Sometimes extrinsic factors -- and yes, principles -- trump the market. Posted by: Carmen Wiseman | Feb 15, 07 12:58 AM

Re: Bedbugs. Driven by the essential grossness / "fear factor" connected to the sight & experience of such a creature, I think this issue is a bit overblown, and CBC is delving into junk journalism in covering it as they did IMO. I expect a bit more than that from a show with such a (potential) mandate as Marketplace. Is this truly a growing problem as the piece suggests, or a centuries-old prolem that has finally had TV cameras pointed at it? No sympathy offered to corporations or slumlords, but multi-million dollar lawsuits don't hurt either for publicity, do they? Good job, CBC, I guess you have exhausted the common mosquito as a source of fear. Did anyone else think of the experience of being bitten by mosquitoes, watching the little beggars bloat up with blood? I too was concerned that the piece seemed to casually suggest that a regimen of pesticide exposure is less of a concern than getting chewed by bugs, like it's a "no-brainer". Don't get me wrong, I would not wish to be chewed by bugs, especially in a hotel. To give this piece more relevance, I would rather have heard something about the possibility of the spread of disease - did I miss it? Entymologists were obviously consulted, but all we got out of it was the proper Latin name of the little monsters. Posted by: Robert Rushton | Feb 15, 07 03:50 AM

I missed the show but enjoyed reading the comments. I have just finished reading the book "The End of Food - How the food industry id destroying our food supple and what you can do about it" by Thomas F. Pawlick. It is a very interesting read on what has happened to our food and nutrition. Posted by: Judy Hall | Feb 15, 07 07:38 AM

To add to the egg discussion, what I was hoping to see was a comparative analysis of trace amounts of pesticides, antibiotics, hormones. I thought Wendy's work on cancer was so strong, and hoped it would lead to more in-depth examination of our exposure to all types of man made chemicals. The show was probably 10 years late and the snide implication that we who buy organic are paying more for exactly the same product is unappreciated and near sited. I am perpetually skeptical regarding both sides of the argument (industrial vs. organic). Posted by: Alan Bateman | Feb 15, 07 09:57 AM

Last summer I was back-packing in Spain and picked up bed-bugs in my sleeping bag. When I asked where I could wash it to get rid of them, I was introduced to an effective and harmless way to get ride of them: the sleeping bag was taken outside and sprayed with a mixture of water and oil of eucalyptus. Apparently they loathe the stuff. I was not bitten again. Posted by: Jennifer Sanders | Feb 15, 07 10:07 AM

I agree with many of the earlier posted comments re eggs. I found Wendy's piece to be high on hype and low on specific factual information re nutritional value. Very disappointing. Posted by: Leslie | Feb 15, 07 10:19 AM

I am a the authour of The Bed Bug Resource (www.thebedbugresource.com) and would encourage your viewers with more questions to visit. The information is unbiased and there is a forum for Q & A. Sincerely, Sean. Posted by: Sean | Feb 15, 07 10:44 AM

I'm a Public Health Inspector in Western Canada and yes we have had an increase in the number of complaints. One entomologist that I dealt with told me the worst thing one can do is spray Raid or similar product to control them. The product is good when it hits the bug but it will repel all the ones it doesn't hit scattering them into the walls and else where. Once they get into the walls they are very very hard to get rid of and also probably infect the next apartment or room. Also, call your local Public Health Officer, as they said in the program it is the landlords responsibility to get rid of them. Posted by: Rod M. | Feb 15, 07 11:22 AM

Eggz. Your story confirms what I suspected all along--that all store-bought eggs are pretty much the same. I guess you can't really make a national generalization about farm-raised eggs and chickens tho...because that is where the real nutritional, flavour and humane difference is. I buy all my eggs from farms where I know the chickens are pastured with grazers so they can have lots of bugs to eat and lots of sun on their little bodies. As any decent egg aficionado can tell you, there are huge differences between summer and winter eggs--and no comparison at all with supermarket eggs. Also, I don't think your research goes far enough, which is sad. The cage vs free run argument isn't just about nutrient levels or humaneness. Chickens that live in severely stressful and confined conditions are likely overloaded with stress hormones and their immune systems overloaded and dependent on antibiotics to keep them alive and laying. Do you really want to eat meat or eggs from animals that are swimming in stress hormones? Or antibiotics? Should we contribute to antibiotic resistance by purchasing animals of any kind which depend on these drugs to survive, merely for the sake of increased profit margins? You do know that antibiotic resistance is increasing in part due to the amounts animals are fed. You do realize that any superbugs created in animal stocks will eventually pass to humans? There are many more important questions to be asked than simply if the most basic nutrients are present in the eggs, as if all eggs were, were large vitamin pills and nothing more. Posted by: Shannon McCormick | Feb 15, 07 12:18 PM

For years I have watched marketplace with an exalted level of respect. After this episode it leaves me to question the eminence and integrity of this program. In my opinion both segments were appallingly irresponsible. First of all the issue of bedbugs is nothing new, and while a nuisance and some may find them unpleasant the greater danger lies in the use of toxic pesticides to remove the critters. According to health Canada “Bed bugs are nuisances and are generally off-putting to people, but they do not pose any major health risks.” Unlike the pesticides used to kill the pests. I can’t imagine your program would not pose the question of alternative treatments and preventatives of bedbugs. A simple solution would be an investment in barrier cloth covers for the mattresses that would be cleaned between guests. For a stubborn problem, UV light wands use 100% chemical-free UV-C sterilization to sanitize objects and surfaces. The UV-Light has been shown to have a 99.9% kill rate of bacteria & viruses including dust mites & bed bugs. Followed by a simple vacuuming to remove the dead debris would be a safe non-toxic solution. Your show ended with a Bedbug lawsuit, where a lawyer stated that consumers felt betrayed, violated and that nobody gets over it completely when exposed to bedbugs. I would like to raise the question of what type of claim could one make after being exposed to chemical insecticides that could cause a life-threatening reaction, or a long term illness in which case nobody would ever over it completely? Judie Squires Freelance Writer Posted by: Judie Squires | Feb 15, 07 12:46 PM

Cont... And on a final note, your program actually had the audacity to raise the question “Does it make a difference if they are a happy hen?” If this were a story on kittens or puppies raised in these caged conditions for the sake of some commodity, there would be pure pandemonium; the question above would seem callous at best. Chickens can be a companion just as a dog; can be as amusing as a cat and as beautiful as any of their cousins, parrots, blue jays or any other respected bird. So don’t they deserve the same level of respect? The chickens crammed in cages in your program were clearly suffering as a healthy chicken has clear eyes, a waxy bright red comb and shiny feathers, how could anyone look at those sickly birds and even want to eat anything produced in such an awful manor. My best advice to those who wish to eat the best eggs is to find a local farm, visit the beautiful birds providing your delicious meal, be sure the conditions are humane, and get them fresh, local, from truly happy healthy hens or raise a few of your own. Judie Squires Freelance Writer Posted by: judie Squires | Feb 15, 07 12:55 PM

I just wanted to send you a quick email to say thank you for showing the plight of hens used in egg-laying in factory farms (also known as intensive farming). Regardless of what the egg industry tells us, there is no way a healthy egg can come from a chicken who is kept it's entire life in such a cruel and disgusting, appalling place. Not to mention the environmental impact on these types of hideous operations. I work in marketing, and they are selling us a load of crap, pardon the pun. Posted by: Nadine Saunders | Feb 15, 07 01:22 PM

On your egg story: yup, where was the research??? You specifically mentioned trans fat versus regular fat, and talked about nutritional value but gave NO results, and didn't do the most basic test - crack open those eggs and take a look. You can see a marked difference especially with free range eggs. As for government standards, you could have taken your whole story and condensed it into one sentence: "The government can't see any difference between these types of eggs so neither do we at Marketplace." Posted by: Tish Lakes | Feb 15, 07 01:58 PM

I was bitten by bedbugs when overnighting at a nice Canadian hotel. However, since I did not know the cause of these bites (it took two days before the bites appeared), I didn't take precautions when I went back home. A few bedbugs had travelled with me in the suitcase and established in my house. What I should have done was check the hotel bed for little black spots along the seams and then tried to have my luggage and clothes off the floor and bed at all times. I also should have washed all of my clothes in hot, soapy water and put the luggage in the freezer for at least two weeks (this kills the bugs). Once your house is infected, this is what I would recommend: 1) let a professional exterminator spray your house and then wash all clothes and fabrics in hot and very soapy water (alternatively put in deep-freeze for 2 weeks), 2) let the spray work for a month before cleaning (this is discusting, but not as bad as the bugs), 3) when it's clean-up time have carpets and bed steam cleaned. For those of you worried about the effect of the spray - it's nothing compared to having your house being infested with bugs. Please don't compare it to mosquitos. Mosquitos come and go, while bedbugs stay, multiply and once properly established they start to spread (visitors, work, other hotels that you visit - thanks a lot). Posted by: Unlucky | Feb 15, 07 03:02 PM

Years ago, our family raised grain fed free range happy chickens on a small farm. The eggs were delicious. Occasionally we would have to buy the sickly commercial eggs from the supermarket. Every time I ate them, I would get a severe headache and metallic taste in my mouth. I have not touched a commercial egg since. Now, we live in the city and we only buy organic free range eggs because they taste better and we are confident the chickens have been handled with respect. Animal welfare is equally important in our food decisions. I was saddened that this was not a higher priority with the report. Aside from pesticides, growth hormones and antibiotics, we also know that stress negatively effects the human body. Do we underestimate the impact of high stressors in the animal flesh we chose to eat? What about girls as young as 7 starting their menstrual cycle. What kind of impact will this have on their reproductive health in years to come? One other observation from a scientific perspective; I took a correspondence grade 12 biology class, we had a lab that used vinegar to disintegrate the shells of eggs. As the only eggs I had in the fridge were organic free range, the lab failed miserably because after 7 long days, the shell was still 80% intact. Attempting the lab again using those sickly commercial eggs with the same controls in measure, the shells disintegrated in less than 12 hours!! Our family will continue to eat organic eggs and organic foods to preserve our good health and the health of our food chain. After all, its what keeps us alive and out of the health care system. Posted by: Tamil | Feb 15, 07 06:10 PM

Bed Dread and Great Eggspectations Aired on February 07, 2007 I have always enjoyed watching Marketplace as I felt they really worked at uncovering the truth…..the whole truth for consumers however I was very disappointed in the program “Bed Dread and Great Eggspectations. In the first segment of the show, Bed Dread, there was no mention of how to exterminate the bugs without using toxic chemicals. I would have thought after the program “Finding the Cancer Answer” that Marketplace aired numerous times had spoken about avoiding toxic chemicals that safer methods of extermination of these bugs would have been discussed. In the second segment of the show, Great Eggspectations, I was appalled that no thought was given to the plight of these poor caged birds. Those of us who care about the welfare of animals have fought hard to try to get humane treatment for these battery farmed birds and after quite some time some farmers are granting a semblance of humane treatment for these birds by allowing them to see the light of day. Unfortunately after airing this program I fear that all the hard work may be undone. Since this segment I have already heard people say, “hey, all eggs are the same so why pay more for free range”…..what a tragedy this is. These birds are animals that feel fear and pain just as we do. They are no different than any bird such as a parrot or other pet bird yet sadly, people only see them as food. These birds are intelligent animals that live an atrocious life of fear and torment until they are slaughtered. Did not the caged birds in this segment look sick and crowded to anyone doing this story? Or was it easier to close your eyes to the truth and just think of them as food. This makes me sick to my stomach and I have lost respect for Marketplace. Carolann Hamilton Posted by: Carolann Hamilton | Feb 15, 07 06:34 PM

What perfect timing your show on bed bugs was last night. My friend called right after the show, saying there were bed bugs in his apartment. He had advised his landlord, who basically told him "you get rid of them" - I reminded my friend that under the Tenancy Act of BC, it is the landlords responsibility to pay for the pest control company. So my friend printed off info from your show via the website - end result is the landlord/property management company has arranged for a pest control company!!! Wonderful programs on this show all the time. Posted by: Christine | Feb 15, 07 08:34 PM

Have you ever looked into the use of animals in research? Please visit www.pcrm.org It would make you question why millions of animals suffer horrendous deaths and the lives of humans are put at risk for an acknowledged erroneous system of scientific inquiry. Posted by: Anne Birthistle | Feb 16, 07 01:31 AM

I applaud you for your segment about eggs. Though it was looked at from a nutritional point of view, you still managed to capture the aplorable conditions in which these poor creatures are forced to live. Most people I know purchase free range/organic eggs due to animal welfare and environmental reasons. Perhaps your graphic (though short) video captions will catch the eyes of other animal activists and sway their purchase choices. More exposure to these conditions and many other animals rights issues is needed. Please continue even in this small, discret way to expose the tortures pressed upon living creatures in this and other countries. Posted by: Shannon | Feb 16, 07 07:52 AM

How could people even think of sleeping on a mattress that has been doused with pesticides?? There are effective remedies for bed bugs that don't call for the exterminator. Consumers need to know that treatments safe for humans and safe for the environment are available. Our company's specialty is another blood-feeding human pest - the head louse - but our enzyme-based treatments and cleaning products work for bed bugs too. www.licesquad.com Posted by: Caroline Bonham | Feb 16, 07 02:04 PM

I thought your approach to "eggs" was a bit odd. The thrust seemed to be that we consumers are dupes of the marketing gurus who exploit us. Nutrionally all the same, perhaps. Though you were only measuring for cholestrol and fat. And dismissed the idea the idea that pesticides in eggs might be an issue, because there is no proof (because no one has tested for it). Even if I accept the premise that there is no nutritional difference between eggs, I appreciate that I can chose the kind of agriculture I want. Do we think it's okay to torment chickens in small cages as long as the eggs are of the same nutritional value? Some people might like getting to vote for their preference with their food dollars. A final question. You indicated that there was a nutritional difference in the omega 3 eggs. But you didn't bother to tell us what it was. Instead, we are told to eat fish or walnuts instead. Huh? Fish is expensive, grocery walnuts are usually rancid. Eggs would seem to be a good, cheap source of omega 3, if it was in any way comparable. So, given that you were testing for fats and cholestrol, what was the difference in the omega 3s? And how does it compare to a walnut or a serving of salmon? You usually do a good job, but this piece seemed sloppy and unlike what we have come to expect from you. Posted by: Diane | Feb 16, 07 02:25 PM

After watching the February 7, 2007 airing of Marketplace I was disappointed in the spin that was presented around the purchase of free range eggs. I really have no interest in purchasing these eggs for added nutritional value; I purchase them because they are the only option available for people like me who want to demonstrate with my purchasing decisions that the poor treatment of animals will not be tolerated. It would have been much more appropriate if you compared several brands of free range eggs, and compared the actual treatment of the animals with each brand to verify that they are being treated as their label states. Posted by: Robyn | Feb 16, 07 02:56 PM

Thank you for showing the conditions that non free-range chickens must endure. I buy free-range whenever I can because of the better environment that these chickens live in. Posted by: Sandra Bernard | Feb 16, 07 03:48 PM

Thank you to all the thoughtful people who picked up on the same seeming bias and omission in the Great Eggspectation segment. There was the slightest remark by Wendy M. about the welfare of the birds in the production of eggs, but too late and too little in the commentary. I appreciated the film footage comparison of free-run, free-range, versus horrifically enclosed and beak-snipped fowl that produce the majority of eggs. Not enough close-ups though! As if cost were the only components of choice, the 'eggspert' had nothing other than market cost to add to the information. I've seen too many of these TV 'research' clips. At the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons the same drivel about taste and cost are made with nary a nod to the why folks pay more, the ethical treatment of the animals, and the expendability of them. The nutrition may be similar, but the acts of getting those products to us is what also matters. Eating with consciousness / obtaining food without consequence should be a mantra for the 21st century. Posted by: EdieB | Feb 16, 07 05:20 PM

Thank you for having the courage to discuss(if only briefly) the cruelty that is involved in bringing eggs to the fridges of Canadians. The more informed Canadian consumers are, the more we will be able to vote with our dollars for more humane treatment of animals. Posted by: Fayaz Chagani | Feb 16, 07 08:50 PM

When buying eggs, I always pay attention to their nutritional ingredients. The Eggs Industry is misleading "Omega-3" contents in this show for nutrition better look really disappoint me. The so-called "free run, organic feed" in fact is really in doubt. How much do the chickens run, or eat organic food in a day? God knows. But I DO KNOW that the chicken will be fed by the eating stimulation substance for eggs production. Wake up somebody. Absolute no chemical added in the chicken feeding chain is really driven-customer development. Posted by: Loc Le | Feb 17, 07 07:50 AM

You need to be more responsible when covering reasons people buy free range & organic eggs. The main reason I buy them is for better conditions/treatment for the chickens. Other reasons include taste & ennivorimental reasons. I don't know anyone that thinks they are better nutritional value. You make concerned decision seem like a foolish one. Your story belittles the whole reason to buy free range & organic eggs. Try to get all the facts before making conclusions that are irrelevant. Posted by: Dawn | Feb 17, 07 01:38 PM

I just watched your episode on bed bugs, and as a former manager at a hotel in the Rockies, I can say that bed bugs and ticks are a huge concern to hotel owners and staff. Our housekeeping department was well trained in looking out for the signs of pest infestation. Our front desk team would even note rooms that were occupied by "high risk" tenants, such as hikers, backpackers, and tour guests that would stay at 8 or more hotels on their tours. We would be very aware of tour groups in that if only one guest was carrying a pest, they were more than likely to have spread it to the other guests through their luggage. I think it is important not only to identify hotels that do not have proper housekeeping training programs, but also educate people on how not to bring these pests into a hotel. Things like checking your clothing after back country hiking, checking your pets' fur for pests, and proper hygene. I have had to destroy many mattresses and lose many room night revenues due to careless guests, not to mention expose my staff to insects that carry diseases like lyme disease. So, hotels need to be vigilant, but the public needs to be aware that these bugs got in some how, and the hotels didn't bring them in. Posted by: Damien L. | Feb 17, 07 04:18 PM

Great Eggspectations had to be the crazyiest review of the eggs I have ever seen. Ms Hudson should look at all the premium products that Burnbrae Farms sell. How embarasing to admit that all those produst are of no extra value. I feel that this is fraud and Burnbrae should be responsible. How do all the stores that buy egg from Burnbrae feel. Should they be looking for a refund. I don't think they will be selling as many premium egg products any more. How should CFIA feel that supplies nutritional value charts that are on each egg carton. What about all the provinical egg marketing boards that promote premium eggs. What was dealt with in these production basically damaged the whole egg industry. Burnbrae not being one of the most ethical companies. May I suggest that the eggs that were tested might of been United States industrial eggs that are brought in to Canada for the breaking plants for liquid products by Burnbrae, but for some reason accidently slip into the table egg market where BBF makes huge profits. I don't think Mr Hudsons check book is big enough to get Burnbrae Farms out of this blunder. Also if you notice the chicken in the clip the debeking of the bird was so poorly done. This should be a wakeup call for the Animal Welfare gang to rally. Doug James Posted by: Doug James | Feb 17, 07 07:02 PM

Thank you for showing the battery caged chickens. This practice is cruel and unnecessary and should be illegal. Posted by: Judith Duggan | Feb 17, 07 11:49 PM

I found your coverage of eggs to be extremely disappointing. I, like many people, buy free range eggs because of the welfare of the chickens. I had hoped that Ms. Mesley/CBC would show the cruel realilty of factory farm egg production. I don't care whether or not there is more nutrition in free-range eggs. There is such a thing as shopping and eating according to conscience, and consideration for the welfare of the animals that share our earth. Posted by: Lee Ann | Feb 18, 07 12:02 AM

In regards to the bed bugs, I travelled to Penticton BC one summer with my 2 sons. We stayed for 2 nights in a hostel and we got bit by bedbugs. I found a dead one and gave it to the reception. I explained to him that they had a bug problem that we all got bitten. His expression had changed, a hint of embrassment and he said nothing of substance. Once home, I called several times to follow-up on what they had done about it and it was a dead end. I felt upset that they did not care about us as customers nor thank us for pointing out the problem. Never got an apology either, or some form of compensation. We did pay for our stay, and we are not going back to their place again. The feeling of being a victim of the bugs combined with the brush-off of the place lingers. Poor customer service. On another note about the bugs, can we use natural herbs based products to deal with them... On the egg issue, most people I know who buy free range and organic eggs, tell me they taste better and it is also better animal conditions. Thank you. Posted by: Christine | Feb 18, 07 02:07 AM

I don't believe that one can buy the "certified organic eggs" in a large grocery store. 'Certified eggs' have to have a serial number , and eggs in large stores do not have that number that guarantees what that expensive chicken had to eat. Those are necessarily very expensive eggs and I just make sure my eggs come from uncaged, happy chickens. When I lose one source from which to buy my eggs, I look for another, and I can guarantee that they taste better than store eggs! But the very best taste comes from those "certified organic eggs" with their very high quality meals that I do hope that Marketplace, in its search for truth will also evaluate. Thank you. Posted by: Margaret Johnson | Feb 18, 07 01:16 PM

Bed bugs are a growing problem. I hear about friends and colleagues who have been bitten. I've never heard about bed bugs until recently. I've read about multi-million dollar lawsuits against hotels. I've read that bed bugs can carry disease but that there is no evidence of humans contracting a disease from bed bugs. Is this true? If there is no chance of catching a disease then why are the victims lawyers suing for so much money? CBC did not investigate whether bed bugs are a real health concern. Good show regardless. Posted by: Jill | Feb 19, 07 05:25 PM

I stayed at two hotels that had bed bugs and I took them home with me what a disaster to get rid of. I was bitten by them and could not sleep for days what an experience. Posted by: Joanne | Feb 20, 07 05:29 PM

after watching program on foodsafe i wish a person would go into construction camps and run similar tests undercover then post results Posted by: m crowe | Feb 21, 07 06:58 PM

this is in response to the coffee time report. if you want clean and sanitary restaurants and coffee shops you have to pay your employees . i my self am a food handler in montreal , and rarely have i seen staff care about there surroundings . the main reason is ,why should they , they are making 7.25 $ per hour .with little or no recognition for the work they do . public health is important and every day pepole frequent restaurants . but imagine this . an engeneer that makes 8.00¢ per hour with no benefits, no support from his firm (mental, proffessional etc...) and management that dosent care about its employees . does he take short cuts building that high rise Posted by: bertrand lavoie | Feb 21, 07 08:03 PM

On the subject of bed bugs: There is an effective, sure fire way to kill the bed bugs in your home or business. Heat. Heat your room/home business to a certain temperature for a set length of time and you can virtually guarantee the deaths of all three stages of the bed bugs. No pesticides, no elaborate preparations and you can be back in your home within 6 hours. www.qccsystems.com Posted by: Tony Canevaro | Feb 22, 07 04:00 AM

When I was younger, I bought eggs without giving a thought to the welfare of the hens. When I became better informed, I bought eggs only from ethical, organic farmers. Now I rarely buy eggs at all. The laying hens, despite a humane and healthy existence on these organic farms, still meet the same end once they are "spent." I would like, however, to thank CBC for airing this program. It is a step in the right direction. Posted by: Pat Tacail | Feb 22, 07 09:10 AM

Regarding your egg comparison, and the worthiness of paying more for free run eggs as opposed to "typical" mass produced. the story focused only on nutritional comparisons. Sadly you missed a wonderful opportunity to shed light on the appalling conditions that chickens live in, when not in a "free run"environment. I buy free run eggs, and am happy to pay more, not because I perceive higher nutrition, but beacause my conscience cannot handle supporting an industry that forces chickens to live in the most inhumane and horrid conditions imaginable, all to increase yeild and therefore profit. It may sound flaky but I do believr that a happier chicken will result in a healthier egg for me, when considered on an "energy" level, for example an animal who has experienced less stress will pass less stress on to me when I consume its product. This idea applies to free range of any kind. One need only google the common practises of mass produced pork, beef, etc, to get a very eye opening look at how these poor creatures live out their lives prior to hitting the abbatoir...it may help engender a society that, while not becoming vegetarian, may consider supporting local growers who raise their cattle, porkand chicken humanely. Become educated-you are what you eat!Jen, Calgary Posted by: jen | Feb 25, 07 07:18 PM

At the end of your segment on eggs, Wendy Mesley concludes: "So the egg bottom line - better choice, better image, better marketing; but when it comes down to it these eggs really aren't that different." This statement has left consumers confused, with a lot of questions, which we have been answering since the program aired. To set the record straight, consumer choice is typically influenced by three factors: - Price point (those who choose to buy the least expensive options such as standard white or brown eggs); - Point of view (those who choose to eat organic eggs, free run eggs or eggs from hens fed vegetarian feed); and - Nutritional content (those who recognize the health benefits of omega-3 nutrition and seek it out in a variety of ways - including eggs). To suggest that this range of choice is not meaningful does not take the concerns of individuals seriously, nor is it accurate. First, consumer choice is important, legitimate and expected. We provide products that cater to consumer demands, whether they are driven by price, 'point of view' or nutrition. Second, as someone who has spent my working life focused on health and nutrition, I want to emphasize the importance of getting the facts straight. Not only do omega-3 eggs contain ten times the total omega-3 content of a standard egg, they also contain DHA omega-3 Polyunsaturates, which are not found in flax or canola oil, as inferred in your program. Finally, I must express my regret and disappointment that the show's producers chose to highlight my "yes, absolutely" response to the poorly-framed question at the end of the piece. The inclusion of this exchange out of context was confusing for Canadian consumers who have a legitimate right to good information about health and nutrition for themselves and their families. If viewers have further questions or comments about eggs and egg nutrition, they are welcome to write to me directly: mhudson@burnbraefarms.com Margaret Hudson Burnbrae Farms Posted by: Margaret Hudson | Mar 5, 07 05:13 PM

I wished to comment on the omega-3 shell eggs. When flax containing the plant omega-3 fatty acid (linolenic acid, LNA) is included in the laying hen's feed, this results in an egg which is enriched in LNA (approx. 300 mg per egg). Furthermore, the laying hen converts a substantial amount of the LNA to a very special omega-3 type known as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). DHA is a physiologically-essential fatty acid in the brain where it is needed at high levels to support optimal brain functioning. One omega-3 egg provides approximately 80 mg of DHA which can markedly improve the very low intakes of DHA in Canada where young children average only 19 mg DHA/day and pregnant women average only 80 mg/day based on our studies at the University of Guelph. While flax , canola oil , English walnuts are rich in LNA ,which has some nutritional value, these are all devoid of DHA. Furthermore, the conversion of LNA to DHA in the human body is very low. Thus, the omega-3 eggs are a significant dietary source of DHA (and LNA)and are added options for increasing intakes of DHA which typically come from fish/seafood rich in DHA. Posted by: Bruce Holub | Mar 6, 07 11:44 AM

Response to Great Eggspectations: Omega 3 eggs are different and Canadians need to understand that. As a registered dietitian I recommend them because they are an easy way to get DHA, an omega 3 fatty acid that supports normal brain and eye tissue. Omega 3 eggs are an important source of DHA. So is salmon. Enjoy both. Posted by: Lois Ferguson | Mar 6, 07 05:35 PM

As a nutritionist I wish the interview more clearly took the time to point out that there is a BIG nutritional benefit between Omega 3 eggs and the regular eggs. I would like more parents and adults to know that getting more omega-3 in our diet, through food, is a very good choice. As eggs are likeable, versatile, omega-3 eggs make that easy. According to research, young children receive less than 100mg of DHA omega-3 on average. Having an omega-3 egg can double the childs daily omega 3 intake. We need parents to be aware that growing children need omega-3 for for normal brain development and development of eyes and nerves. I am so glad that in Canada we have food companies that are 'innovative' and offer Canadians CHOICES (like omega-3 eggs) so we can continue to optimize our diets if we wish. Sincerely, Judy Scott Welden, Nutritionist Posted by: Judy Scott Welden | Mar 7, 07 11:17 AM

You did miss the point on the egg story. I buy free-range eggs exclusively, simply because any other type make me gag, knowing how the chickens that produce them are treated. Posted by: J. Fice | Mar 8, 07 09:57 AM

it's goverment fault for not allowing spraying of lawns.bedbugs are nothing more then a grass bug Posted by: tony | Mar 24, 07 08:08 PM

I heard free-run eggs are debeaked so they don't attack each other. I think any sort of factorized chicken is probably living an inhumane life. The best thing to do is probably find a local farmer and see what their setup is like. I'm even a little sceptical of free-range eggs...I don't think they regulate how much free space or the state of it. We usually picture a grassy hill, but if could be a muddy patch of land covered in chicken feces. Who's to say...unless you see it yourself. Posted by: B.P. | Apr 16, 07 01:33 AM

Can ultraviolet light doseages kill bed bugs I have heard it can with the purelight wand. Has any one got info. Regards Bruce Australia Posted by: bruce | Apr 19, 07 08:43 PM

My wife and I spray our bed and any hotel bed we sleep in with Norwex mattress spray. I am surprised that Norwex is not more widely known yet. Posted by: Danny Zacharias | May 17, 07 11:22 AM

Re: Bed Bugs The woman going to bed all covered up because of having bedbugs was rediculous. I found I had bedbugs last year and went from being horrified to getting informed. Found them in the pleatd corners of my bedskirt and feces along the mattress piping. Immediately stripped all removeable bedding and put it in a hot tub of water and bleach. I found a company on the internet who supplied non-toxic spray and ordered it. I moved into another room after standing bed and box spring opright against the wall. I spayed evry surface and even pulled back the underneath covering of the box spring to spay. Sprayed all baseboards and carpet. I used upholstery cleaner to clean to feces off the piping. I repeated this every few days. You neglected to mention in your story that bedbugs are very temperature sensitive - to heat or cold. I also ironed every surface of bed with a hot iron. If it is winter time one could put the items outside, protected and let the cold do the killing. Alternatively - one could turn off the bedroom thermostat, close the door and leave the window open and let the temperature drop down. Those people need not have thrown out their sofa. I vacuumed thorougly and checked drawers and crevices. I moved back into the room a few weeks later and have never had any more problems -I now know how to check and what those dark blotches on the sheets and mattress piping were. The cost was $50 for the non-toxic spray and lots of work! Posted by: Carole F | Jun 19, 07 12:49 PM

I am currently dealing with a bedbug problem in my new rentall apartment in Ottawa. The Landlord has sprayed once but insists I moved the critters in with me. I noticed a strong and unpleasant odour when I first moved in but attributed this to the new carpets which were laid in the bedrooms and living room. I noticed the first full size adult bugs 6 days later and informed the Landlord who dispatched their Maintenance Person to investigate. He reported that the bugs were "Grey Weevils" which I foundodd as they were brownish red. He said they sprayed and the problem was solved. Unfortunately I didn't pursue the issue for another 10 days after I awoke and found multiple bites, bloody shhets and numerous bugs on me and the carpet. I think the fact I was on an air mattress on the floor made it worse. I have yet to move my belongings inot my new home for fear of infecting them, consequently I had to extend my lease from my old apt. which is costing me a fortune. I don't want my name posted as I am now looking for another place to live. If anyone nows how I can ensure I don't move the bugs which may now be on my dogs please reply. The few items I have in this apt can stay but I can't leave my pents but don't want to move the problem. I can't find anything online to help me in treating my dogs. Posted by: Anonymous | Jun 26, 07 10:30 PM

The story on eggs was so poorly researchhed and such a waste of time it was a bit embarrassing to watch. I wondered why Wendy Mesely continued to ask if free run or free range eggs are healthier when my six-year old niece could have genntly explained to her (in little words so she could comprehend) that our family eats free range eggs because we want to help famers who are nice to their animals, not farmers who are mean to their animals. We actually buy our eggs direct from a farm where we can see the conditions, rather than from a grocery store. Perhaps Marketplace could ask the public why they eat free range eggs before making a sweeping generalization that we care about the health of the eggs when it's actually the health of the chickens that is our concern. Posted by: JML | Jul 8, 07 10:37 AM

People buy free range eggs simply because it's the right thing to do. One feels better in chosing products that are produced in a humane way, and this in itself makes such products a healthy choice. Posted by: Mark Ashdown | Jul 8, 07 02:46 PM

HOW TO GET RID OF BED BUGS. based on the premise that they need to eat and can't climb smooth surfaces. Basically it is a siege. 1. encase all mattresses and box springs in plastic zippered bags or plastic paint drop clothes. Wash all bedding and clothing. Keep clothing in air tight containers. All furniture must be covered. The plastic has to function as a complete barrier to the bugs. Stave them out! This can take up to 4 months. Sleep tight. Posted by: chris | Jul 8, 07 06:48 PM

Interesting comments about bed bugs. I've had some experience with the little critters and would definitely opt for a non-chemical approach if possible. What worked in my case was the "siege" method. Since they can't climb on smooth surfaces, I put each of my bed's legs into a small glass jar. I had to use some rubber padding to prevent slippage on floor and also to protect the jar from breakage from the pressure of the bed legs, but other than that it's a pretty straightforward solution. Of course any bugs or eggs on the bed itself have to be dealt with first by steaming or cleaning, but after that the critters simply can't get at you and eventually starve. Posted by: Laz | Aug 25, 07 10:20 AM