BONUS SPRING SUMMER 2025

perimeter fencing to restrict access, a single controlled entry point with security measures, and visible signage indicating restricted zones and biosecurity requirements. Visitor management protocols must include risk assessments, registration, and provision of protective clothing. Designated parking areas should be situated away from broiler houses and feed storage, and vehicle disinfection procedures should be mandatory. Measures to exclude wild birds, rodents, and other pests are essential. Internal biosecurity should involve zoning the farm into clean, dirty, and isolation areas, with strict separation of personnel, equipment, and animal movement. Dedicated tools and clothing per zone help prevent cross- contamination. Hygiene stations must be placed at building entrances, and all entries and activities must be documented, including visitor logs, disinfection schedules, and health records. Challenges and adaptation in the South African context Many small- to medium-sized broiler farms in South Africa face structural and financial limitations in achieving full biosecurity compliance. These can be addressed through phased investment plans. Practical steps include: 1. Adoption of all-in/all-out systems with adequate downtime between flocks 2. Comprehensive cleaning and disinfection between cycles 3. Routine health monitoring and early disease detection 4. Rodent and vector control programmes Nutrition for health, and performance precision feeding in broilers aims to match daily nutrient requirements to support health and growth while minimising the need for therapeutic interventions. Improper or excessive feeding can disrupt the gut microbiota, leading to enteric diseases, wet litter, and poor performance. South African nutritionists must prioritise: • High-quality, digestible protein sources • Balanced amino acid and micronutrient profiles • Use of functional feed additives such as probiotics, prebiotics, organic acids, phytogenics, and enzymes Impact on performancemetrics: FCR and PEF The transition away from AGPs is often accompanied by initial declines in performance in the initial transition phase. A collaboration between the veterinary services, nutrient suppliers, and technical support on the farm will be essential to limiting the impact on performance. It is expected that the FCR with AGPs may range between 1,45–1,60, and the PEF with AGPs to be 300–330. These values are affected by increased susceptibility to subclinical infections, reduced nutrient absorption, and stress-related inefficiencies. Without AGPs, mortality and culling rates may rise, further depressing PEF. It is to be expected that farmers may lack the appetite to make the shift toward ABF production in a highly competitive market. It is beneficial to be an www.agribonus.co.za Spring/Summer 2025 BONUS 89