March 16, 2007

 

Threats to poultry's pre-dominance

 

An eFeedLink Exclusive

 

 

Contrary to popular perception, it is not avian flu, escalating production costs or trade barriers that stand to challenge the predominance of the broiler and egg industry.

 

One of the most efficient producers of lean meat in the animal production industry, broiler and egg production faces its biggest contender of global animal production dominance in the swine industry.

 

This at least according to Steve Leeson, who delivered one of the opening lectures at the 8th Asia-Pacific Poultry Conference in Bangkok last week (Mar 5). Observing that developments in the swine industry are shadowing closely that in poultry, the poultry nutritionist at Canada's University of Guelph adds that the same specialisation and economies of scale that have resulted in cheaper poultry, are the very same factors propelling swine production today.

 

After expanding remarkably over the last 30 years, growth in the broiler and egg industry will slow in the next 10 to 20, predicts Leeson. Consumption is predicted to reach 65 million tonnes in 2015, or an annual production of 80 million tonnes.

 

To meet this, the industry would require some US$35 billion worth of feed, for which the swine industry will be a key competitor, particularly for feed inputs such as soymeal, corn and fats. But a more efficient feed conversion will mean that poultry will continue to remain the lean meat which can be produced at lowest cost, says Leeson.

 

As pork producers move into further processing, requirements for heavier animal bodyweight will help the poultry industry maintain its competitive edge as the fastest lean meat producer. 

 

Among other threats to poultry production, disease concerns rank among the highest. While bird flu is seen as the most dangerous and contagious of avian infectious diseases currently, metabolic diseases pose an even greater threat to poultry mortality. Some of these include sudden death syndrome, skeletal disorders in broilers and cage fatigue in layers.

 

Controlling infectious diseases like coccidiosis and necrotic enteritis will continue to remain key concerns. To control these diseases effectively, vaccines alone are not enough. Producers also need to incorporate high levels of biosecurity and good health management in their facilities. 

 

Participants of the 8th Asia-Pacific Poultry Conference in Bangkok