WINTER BONUS MAGAZINE 2026

Nardus Mostert – Technical Advisor: Monogastric Natural Power in broiler production: An holistic approach to chick placement and early-life management Modern broiler production is built on the principle of efficiency, where optimal growth, uniformity, and profitability are achieved through precisemanagement of birds from the earliest stages of life. Among all production phases, the brooding period, covering the first 7 to 14 days is themost critical, as it lays the foundation for the bird’s future performance. During this time, chicks undergo rapid physiological development andmust adapt quickly to their environment. Any shortcomings inmanagement during this phase can have long-lasting negative effects on growth rate, feed efficiency, andmortality. The De Heus concept of Natural Power , developed within animal nutrition and production systems, provides a holistic framework for managing broiler chicks during this sensitive period. It is based on the integration of three core pillars: nutrition, management, and health. These pillars collectively ensure that animals are raised in environments that support both welfare and productivity. Healthy animals are more efficient, require fewer inputs, and contribute to more sustainable production systems. When applied to broiler chick placement and brooding, Natural Power emphasises the importance of aligning environmental conditions, feeding strategies, and biosecurity measures to create an optimal start for the flock. The concept of Natural Power in poultry production Natural Power is founded on the understanding that animal performance is not driven by a single factor, but by the interaction of multiple systems. Nutrition ensures that chicks receive the necessary nutrients for rapid growth and development, management provides the environmental conditions required for comfort and efficiency, and health focuses on disease prevention and immune system support. These three components are interdependent and must be optimised simultaneously to achieve the best results. In broiler production, this integration becomes particularly important during the brooding period. At this stage, chicks are highly sensitive to environmental and nutritional changes, and even small deviations from optimal conditions can lead to significant performance losses. For example, poor feed availability may reduce growth, while inadequate temperature control can suppress immune function. The Natural Power approach recognises that success depends on managing all these factors together rather than in isolation. Winter 2026 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 76