Heat protocol protects poultry from heat stress

With temperatures expected to reach 32 degrees Celsius on August 12, the Dutch poultry sector is implementing additional measures to prevent heat stress in poultry. Gert-Jan Oplaat, chairman of NEPLUVI, the trade association for the Dutch poultry processing industry, emphasizes the importance of these measures to ensure the welfare of the animals during extreme heat.

Preparations against heat stress

Chickens are particularly vulnerable to heat as they struggle to dissipate their body heat through respiration. As a result, the sector is well-prepared for warm days with high humidity. The heat protocol, approved by the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), includes a series of measures specifically designed to minimize heat stress. Oplaat underscores that animal welfare is always a priority, both during transport and within poultry houses.

Practical measures

The heat protocol includes several practical solutions. For example, large fans are used to improve airflow around trucks when they are at processing plants. Additionally, the animals are cooled with misted water to help regulate their body temperature. These and other measures are essential to ensure poultry does not suffer under high temperatures. The protocol supports both poultry farmers and transporters in maintaining the best possible conditions for the animals during hot days. Oplaat highlights that the poultry sector is committed to ensuring animal welfare, even under extreme weather conditions.

View the videos ‘Hitteprotocol beschermt Nederlands pluimvee tegen hittestress’ and ‘Pluimveetransport bij hoge temperaturen’ for more information (Dutch only).