When we use idioms, we generally refer to popular sayings that are often the result of experiences that have occurred frequently, confirming a cause and effect. It is therefore likely that in the near future we will hear the saying ‘as healthy as a chicken’ to define the quality of animal welfare in the poultry sector compared to that of people.
Technology at the service of poultry farmers over the last ten years has in fact made it possible to increase the health safety of animals, poultry workers and consumers in an ever more careful, precise and profound way.
In the US, poultry production increased by 21% from 2010 to 2020, and contrary to what the industry’s detractors claim, poultry farming has seen further improvements in efficiency and sustainability.
This is due to the technological solutions adopted and in particular the so-called Internet of Things (IoT), which have greatly improved operational efficiency as a whole.
Connected devices are improving both livestock and agriculture, and this represents an ongoing positive impact not only for farmers and businesses, but also for the planet and consumer safety.
In addition to capturing environmental information, technology has provided tools that through a combination of audio, images and various sensors allow farmers to examine farms in real time to quickly, and often preventively, detect symptoms of infectious diseases.
An IoT sensor can detect changes in body temperature and other disease expressions in birds. Real-time data analysis allows farmers and farm veterinarians to quickly detect and respond to potential outbreaks.
By intervening on ventilation or with processes to inhibit infectious agents, farmers can implement preventive measures and plan early solutions and actions.
Technology has made it possible to simplify and improve every stage of farming. DNA mapping and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools provide farmers with a wealth of data on the health quality and genetic response of breeding birds.
Chickens for breeding are screened to ensure that the healthiest and strongest are the ones chosen to create the next generation, an important activity not only for animal welfare, but also to improve the efficiency of each farm.
Among the checks that are carried out, of considerable importance is the DNA test to check for genetic diseases along the line, the blood oxygen level test to ensure the health of the heart and lungs, ultrasounds to examine the chest muscles, and X-rays of the joints and legs.
Leg health is a particularly useful focus because it involves important traits to improve over the course of each generation, due to the fact that birds also need strong legs and joints to grow properly.
One would think that we humans should expect to receive all the checks and attention given to chickens.
The editorial staff
