Ep 59 | From the Poultry Meat Conference 26: Water waste and heat stress: rethinking the broiler shed

Are broiler drinkers delivering more water than birds can actually drink? Ziggity Systems’ André van Rij made that case at this year’s Poultry Meat Conference, questioning whether recommended flow rates leave farms dealing with unnecessary spillage—and whether catch cups introduce more problems than they solve.

Recorded at the event, Jake Davies and Tom Woolman discuss his argument for removing catch cups and getting drinker height right. It challenges a familiar setup on UK broiler farms, although, as Tom points out, there are reasons producers adopted cups in the first place.

Heat stress is another focus, drawing on Alan Ball’s presentation for Slatehall Veterinary Services. He explained how birds lose heat and the limitations of misting during humid conditions or prolonged hot weather. Jake and Tom then add their thoughts on cooling pads and housing design, and why some changes need planning well before the next hot spell.

P.D. Hook’s Carlos Paiva brought the hatchery perspective in Hatching My Way. His account of multi-stage incubation and producing millions of chicks gives Jake and Tom plenty to discuss, particularly the value of experienced staff and the personal responsibility Carlos described for the quality of chicks leaving his hatchery.

There’s also discussion of Will Raw’s NFU industry update, including planning delays facing businesses ready to invest and concerns about standards for imported poultry. And, following chairman John Underwood’s remarks about communication, a reminder that emails and WhatsApp messages are no substitute for properly checking in with colleagues.