This article reviews how the poultry sector can meet the demand for more sustainable production, without having to fundamentally change animal diets. Sustainability is a word that has a different meaning for different people. It is broad, covering environmental, economic and social sustainability. Often, when discussing poultry production and poultry nutrition, the word sustainability is used to imply the longevity and production capabilities of the flock.
With an increase in the number of documentaries about climate change and pollution, consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their food. In fact, according to a recent sustainability report by global data and insights company, Nielson’s, 73% of consumers would definitely, or probably, change their consumption habits to reduce their environmental impact. Currently, there is little legislation in the poultry industry around reducing impact; however, this is expected in due course, considering what is happening in the ruminant sectors in some European countries. The question then becomes, how can we, as an industry, produce the most sustainable product, in a broad sense, without having to fundamentally change the way we feed and raise our animals? Read more