In 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reported that the earth’s average environmental temperature had increased by 1.53°C during the period of 2006-2015. This progressive increase—which IPCC says has doubled since the pre-industrial period of 1850-1900—has generated hotter climates worldwide.

 

Consequently, the continuous increase in temperatures has disrupted global food production, leading to negative impacts on both crop yields and livestock production. Poultry is among the most vulnerable animals to extreme humidity, as it doesn’t have sweat glands to shed surplus heat from its body. Experts agree that poultry animals can only withstand ambient temperatures of 18°C to 24°C; exceeding this range can lead to heat stress. Heat stress symptoms include rapid panting, reduced feed intake, decreased egg production and quality, lethargy, and increased mortality in severe cases.

 

Rising temperatures are expected to affect the global poultry industry in the coming years. Heat stress in poultry will become a major challenge, not just in traditionally warmer regions, but worldwide. Various sectors within the industry—such as egg production, meat processing, feed manufacturing, and poultry equipment—will also feel the impact of increased heat load.

 

Poultry farmers have used different strategies to ward off heat such as ventilation, consistent cold-water supply, cooling systems (such as sprinklers, evaporative cooling pads and many others), reducing stocking density, feeding management (i.e. shifting feeding patterns, adding essential nutrients in feed such as electrolytes), medications to reduce body temperature; using temperature-humidity index (THI) to assess temperature and many others.

 

While these measures have proven effective, innovations aimed at combating heat stress in poultry have brought significant benefits to producers. For instance, Phodé Animal Care has developed a solution (p.8–9) designed to help animals better cope with stressful conditions. This therapeutic approach reduces excessive panting in birds and encourages them to consume small amounts of water and feed. As a result, it helps maintain feed intake, enabling birds to better withstand heat stress, recover more quickly, and ultimately reducing mortality rates even under extreme temperatures.

 

Managing heat stress is not only a matter of animal welfare but also a critical economic imperative. Global think tank firm Research and Markets estimates that the worldwide poultry industry is currently valued at US$350.2 billion and is expected to reach US$620.1 billion by 2034. As such, the consequences of heat stress can be devastating to this multi-billion-dollar industry. But with the right strategies, adapting proper management practices and continued research, the poultry industry will continue to thrive even under the threats of weather abnormalities.

 

The full article is published on the JULY 2025 issue of LIVESTOCK & FEED Business. To read the full report, please email to inquiry@efeedlink.com to request for a complimentary copy of the magazine, indicating your name, mailing address and title of the report.