BONUS SPRING SUMMER 2025

South Africa’s broiler industry is amajor contributor to national food security and economic activity. However, growing concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR), coupledwith evolving international trade standards and consumer preferences, are driving a shift away from the use of antibiotics in poultry production. While South Africa has not yet enacted a full ban on antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs), the Department of Agriculture, Land Reformand Rural Development (DALRRD) is currently reviewing policies alignedwith theWorld Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations and Codex Alimentarius guidelines. It is anticipated that antibiotics will increasingly be restricted to therapeutic use under veterinary prescription, with stringent record-keeping and oversight. Retailers and processors are also beginning to establish private standards that require antibiotic-free certification for branded poultry products. In alignment with these trends, De Heus has initiated the “Natural Power”- programme, which encourages responsible antibiotic use and emphasises improvements in animal health through nutrition, management, and hygiene practices. Antibiotic-free broiler production in South Africa: challenges and strategies Leon Mmokela Mashiane – Technical Advisor: Poultry This article seeks to promote proactive dialogue around the reduction and eventual elimination of AGPs in broiler production in South Africa. It explores the associated challenges, potential mitigation strategies, and productivity implications, while aligning with global trends and local realities. Global context and relevance globally Countries like Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands have banned AGPs and achieved success through improved farmmanagement practices. The US FDA followed suit in 2017, prohibiting medically important antibiotics for growth promotion. These international case studies demonstrate that, while transitional challenges exist, sustainable production is achievable through science-based strategies. Biosecurity: the first line of defence Farm flow design for enhanced external and internal biosecurity A well-designed farm layout is critical to minimising disease introduction and spread. Key external biosecurity measures include Spring/Summer 2025 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 88