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early adopter to stay above the curve and be prepared for the change. When the legislation changes and ABF production becomes law, early adopters will not be affected. Mitigation strategies: • Reduce stocking densities to minimise stress and disease pressure in the broiler house • Adjust feed nutrient density to lower growth pressure while supporting gut health • Strengthen brooding and early-stage management • Enhance disease surveillance and vaccination programme • Environmental and litter management Given South Africa’s climatic diversity, effective environmental control in poultry houses is vital. Key practices include: • Maintaining litter moisture at 20–25% • Keeping ammonia levels below 10–25 ppm • Ensuring a minimum ventilation rate of 1 m³/kg/h • Regular cleaning and chlorination of water lines • Using tunnel ventilation systems to control temperature and humidity These actions reduce heat stress, moisture- related enteric disorders, and respiratory diseases. De Heus’s natural power programme is aimed at assisting farmers to systematically reduce the reliance on antibiotics, improve on-farm practices, and supply nutritional products that support the change and provide on-farm technical services for farmers to be better prepared for the inevitable changes in broiler production. Conclusion Antibiotic-free broiler production in South Africa is both a regulatory inevitability and a market-driven opportunity. Through the adoption of robust biosecurity, precision nutrition, environmental control, and effective management practices, producers can maintain competitive productivity and profitability. With the right support and commitment, the South African broiler industry can lead the continent in antibiotic stewardship while securing long-term animal health and food safety. Get in touch with your local De Heus specialist to learnmore about unlocking your farm’s potential – https://www.deheus.co.za/meet-our-team. www.deheus.co.za | 031 785 1575 | infosa@deheus.com Spring/Summer 2025 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 90