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Cost–Benefit Analysis of Replacing AGPs with Natural Additives

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In recent years, the poultry industry has faced growing pressure to reduce or completely eliminate the use of Antibiotic Growth Promoters (AGPs) due to increasing concerns about antibiotic resistance and food safety. While AGPs once played a crucial role in promoting growth and preventing diseases, their long-term use poses potential risks for both animal and human health.  The shift toward natural feed additives —such as probiotics, enzymes, and phytogenic compounds—presents a sustainable alternative, but farmers often question whether this transition is economically viable. This blog breaks down the cost–benefit comparison between AGPs and natural additives to help poultry farmers make informed decisions for efficient and profitable production. 1. Cost Factors in AGP vs. Natural Additives AGPs (Antibiotic Growth Promoters) are generally cheaper in the short term. A typical antibiotic feed additive costs less than ₹10–₹20 per kg of feed. However, these short-term savings can co...

The Importance of Hygiene and Sanitation in Poultry Farms

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Maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation in poultry farms is essential for ensuring the health, productivity, and profitability of the flock. Poor hygiene can lead to the spread of diseases, reduced egg production, and increased mortality rates. With the growing demand for poultry products, farmers must adopt effective hygiene practices to protect their investment and support sustainable farming. Why Hygiene and Sanitation Matter Poultry are highly susceptible to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections due to their close living conditions. Dirty housing, contaminated feed, and improper waste disposal create an environment where pathogens thrive. Regular cleaning and proper waste management help reduce these risks and promote the well-being of the birds. Good hygiene practices not only prevent disease outbreaks but also improve growth rates and feed conversion. A healthy flock consumes feed more efficiently, leading to better productivity. Additionally, farms with a reputation for clea...

Common Mistakes Farmers Make While Disinfecting Poultry Farms

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Maintaining a clean and disease-free environment is one of the most important responsibilities for poultry farmers. Disinfection plays a major role in preventing the spread of harmful pathogens, improving flock health, and boosting overall farm productivity.  However, many farmers unknowingly make mistakes during the disinfection process, reducing its effectiveness. Understanding these mistakes can help farmers improve their biosecurity practices and protect their poultry from common diseases. 1. Skipping Proper Cleaning Before Disinfection One of the biggest mistakes is applying disinfectants directly to dirty surfaces. Organic matter like manure, feathers, and feed residue can block the disinfectant from reaching harmful microorganisms.  Farmers should always remove all debris, wash surfaces thoroughly with water and detergent, and then apply the disinfectant. 2. Using the Wrong Disinfectant for the Target Pathogens Not all disinfectants work against all types of pathogens. ...

Chicken Diarrhea: How to Understand Causes by Watching Chicken Poop (A Practical Guide for Poultry Keepers)

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When you raise chickens, keeping an eye on their poop is an easy way to know if they are healthy or sick. It may sound strange, but chicken droppings can give clues about what is happening inside their body. One common problem many farmers see is chicken diarrhea . In this blog, we will explain what signs to look for, what different types of poop mean, and when to take action. This guide is simple so that even a beginner or a school student can understand. If you are a poultry farmer or keeping backyard chickens, this can help you keep your flock healthy. Why Does Poop Matter in Poultry? Chicken poop shows how well your birds are eating and digesting their food. If the poop is normal, your chickens are likely healthy. If it is loose or watery, it may be a sign of chicken diarrhea . Diarrhea is not a disease on its own but a sign that something is wrong. Watching the poop helps you take early steps before the problem becomes serious. A healthy chicken has firm brown droppings with a whi...

What Are Organic Acids and How Do They Impact Your Poultry Business?

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  In poultry farming, keeping your birds healthy and helping them grow well is very important. Farmers today are using smarter ways to improve poultry performance. One such method is using organic acids . You may have heard of them as acidifiers for poultry . These acids are natural, and when added to poultry feed or water, they help birds stay healthy and perform better. Let’s understand what organic acids are, how they work, and why they are important for your poultry business. What Are Organic Acids? Organic acids are weak acids that come from natural sources. Some common examples are: Formic acid Acetic acid Lactic acid Citric acid Propionic acid These acids are found in fruits, milk, and even in the body. In poultry farming, they are added to feed or water. When used this way, they are called acidifiers for poultry . Why Do Chickens Need Acidifiers? The gut (stomach and intestines) of chickens plays a big role in their health. If the gut is not healthy, birds can get sick, gro...