BRF Strengthens Producers Need for Extra Care for Birds in Winter

BRF, one of the largest food companies in the world, reinforces this time of year tips and guidelines for producers with the best techniques for handling birds in the midst of low temperatures. In addition to affecting the development of chicks, at the beginning of housing, for example, even small gaps in the houses can lead to heat losses, affect birds at any stage and consume more energy and firewood.

The performance of poultry houses in periods of intense cold can be improved with a series of precautions, which BRF updates and disseminates year after year. This month of May, for example, 700 people, including producers, family members of outgrowers and employees, gathered in the municipality of Travesseiro (RS), in Vale do Taquari, in the interior of Rio Grande do Sul, to exchange experiences and recall actions necessary before the arrival of winter, especially in the southern region of Brazil. The Field Day was organized by the agricultural management of Lajeado, one of the first BRF units to mobilize around the theme this year.

In addition to well-being, in a suitable environment, birds can express their full genetic potential and be more efficient in transforming feed into weight gain. If the house is below or above the ideal temperature, the birds will need more food to balance their body temperature. In this way, the energy consumed, which should be directed to its growth, is diverted. “For those receiving new flocks, we recommend, for example, that you preheat the house 48 hours before the chicks arrive. Another indication is to cover the non-active hoods with covers, to avoid heat loss through the openings”, emphasizes the manager of Agriculture at  BRF in Lajeado, Maria Goretti  Buzanello.

Moisés Ballarini, one of the outgrowers who attended the meeting, works with four aviaries and a total housing capacity of 140,000 birds. Based on what he learned at the meeting, this year he will adopt a strategy he had not used before to better maintain the internal temperature in the accommodations. Ballarini emphasizes that despite constantly receiving good guidance from extension workers, it is important to keep up to date with events such as the one held in Travesseiro and with the exchange of experiences with the Company and other producers.

“This year, for example, a tip that I didn't know about, which is to also seal part of theinlets(ventilation openings) to preserve internal heat. I already noticed that there were differences between the aviaries with moreinletsthan the others and, this winter, I will adopt this technique in addition to other precautions”, says Ballarini.

A member of BRF in Venâncio Aires, Elton Hein believes that the meeting helps to remember small actions that, sometimes, producers end up failing to do, as well as adding new knowledge in terms of new technologies in use. “At the event, equipment was presented by partner suppliers, which is also important for us to update ourselves and design modernizations on the property”, says Hein.

Tips for proper handling of birds in winter

•  In addition to paying attention to the temperature and humidity sensors of the farms, a good way to assess the production environment is to observe the behavior of the birds. When there is a distance from the heat source, it can be indicative of excess heat. On the other hand, if agglomeration of them is observed in a certain place, it is possible that there is a draft or cold.
  
• Properly sealed tarps prevent heat loss, for example, and as a result, the property will require less heating expenses. In other words, the producer will have a double gain with the rational use of rations, since the correct ambience helps in food conversion and reduces expenses with firewood and pellets for the heaters.
  
• To prevent high levels of ammonia, it is essential to carry out correct air exchanges throughout the production cycle. Attention to litter drying during the period between batches is crucial to reduce levels during placement.
  
• The gauging of the probes, as well as the checking of the maintenance of the equipment – ​​especially furnaces, fans or exhaust fans – are critical factors for success in production and must always be closely monitored by the producer.
  

About BRF

One of the largest food companies in the world, BRF is present in more than 127 countries. Its purpose is to offer quality food that is increasingly tasty and practical, for people and their pets around the world, through the sustainable management of a live, long and complex chain, which provides a better life for everyone, from farm to table. Owner of iconic brands such as Sadia, Perdigão and Qualy, the Company bases its actions on the fundamental commitments of safety, quality and integrity. The company bases its strategy on a long-term vision and aims to generate value for its approximately 100,000 employees worldwide, more than 300,000 customers and approximately 10,000 integrated companies in Brazil, all of its shareholders and for society.

— WebWireID290038 —