£3 Million ‘FeedFlow’ Project Aims to Revolutionise Poultry Welfare
A transformative £3 million project is underway to tackle pressing health, welfare, and sustainability challenges in poultry production.
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is a key partner in this initiative, called the ‘FeedFlow’ project, led by Flybox®, an insect farming innovator. Funded by Innovate UK as part of Defra’s Farming Innovation Programme, this project brings together an expert consortium of industry leaders and academic institutions.
By combining advanced technologies like black soldier fly (BSF) larvae and artificial intelligence, the initiative seeks to improve poultry welfare while promoting long-term sustainability.
Despite notable advancements in poultry production, the industry still faces significant challenges, including poor leg health, high mortality rates, and inconsistent feed conversion ratios, all of which affect productivity and animal welfare.
Additionally, poultry farming is responsible for a considerable share of ammonia emissions in the UK, contributing to environmental concerns. To stay competitive against low-cost imports and meet growing consumer demand for ethically produced food, the UK’s poultry production systems need continuous evolution.
Revolutionary Solutions: Black Soldier Fly Larvae and AI
Black soldier fly larvae (BSF) and artificial intelligence are emerging as revolutionary tools for improving poultry performance. BSF larvae, renowned for their ability to promote natural poultry behaviour, serve as a nutrient-rich, high-quality protein source.
They are also enriched with antimicrobial peptides that can enhance gut health and immunity, offering a natural alternative to conventional feed additives. These larvae not only improve poultry health but also reduce reliance on traditional soy-based feeds, a leading driver of deforestation.
Artificial intelligence, on the other hand, is driving precision agriculture to new heights. AI systems are capable of delivering real-time data on flock behaviour, welfare, and health, providing early warnings for potential problems such as disease outbreaks or poor growth rates.
Through these systems, farmers can make more informed decisions, optimising feeding practices and reducing losses.
A Cutting-Edge Approach: FLOX360 and Life Cycle Analysis
Central to the FeedFlow project is a rapid intervention system that integrates the nutritional power of BSF larvae with FLOX360, a cutting-edge computer vision platform powered by enterprise-grade AI algorithms.
This combination allows for continuous monitoring of poultry flocks, ensuring that health issues are detected early and addressed promptly. By harnessing AI-driven insights, farmers can reduce feed waste, improve animal welfare, and boost overall farm efficiency.
The project also incorporates Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), spearheaded by Jess Callaghan from the University of Chester. This analysis will examine the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of various production methods to prevent an increase in emissions while improving productivity.
Furthermore, the LCA will ensure that the drive for better welfare and efficiency doesn’t lead to environmentally damaging trade-offs, safeguarding both animal and environmental health.
Collaboration for a Greener Future
Flybox®’s collaboration with NTU’s School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences strengthens the project. Together, they are exploring the potential of fortified BSF larvae as a rapid nutritional intervention that can outperform traditional feed supplements.
By delivering a high-quality protein source, the project aims to resolve health challenges that have persisted in the industry for years, such as poor feed conversion ratios and high mortality rates.
These innovations are designed not only to enhance poultry welfare but also to promote sustainable practices by reducing the environmental footprint of the entire supply chain.
Last year, Flybox® and NTU undertook a joint study to explore the use of BSF larvae enhanced with nanometre-sized natural minerals in poultry feed. This research is part of a larger feasibility study aimed at boosting the nutritional value of poultry while significantly reducing the carbon footprint of traditional feed ingredients.
Early results have shown promising signs of improving bird health while minimising the environmental impacts of intensive farming.
Driving Circular Resource Use
A professor in Sustainable Food Production at NTU emphasised the importance of insects, such as BSF, in the transition from linear to circular resource use. By closing resource loops and minimising waste, the poultry industry can adopt more sustainable practices, and the FeedFlow project is at the forefront of these efforts.
What’s more, the professor also noted that projects like FeedFlow are crucial for accelerating the commercial viability of insect farming, allowing the sector to harness these natural solutions to revolutionise poultry production.
Partners in Innovation
Supported by a broad range of partners, including Flybox®, FLOX, the University of Chester, Courteenhall Farms, Menchine Farm, and Clarke Group Construction, the FeedFlow project is dedicated to delivering a comprehensive, sustainable solution for the poultry industry.
By combining AI-driven precision farming, insect-based feed alternatives, and sustainability-focused strategies, the consortium aims to reshape the future of poultry production.
Conclusion
In summary, the £3 million FeedFlow project represents a bold and innovative step toward resolving some of the poultry industry’s most critical welfare and sustainability issues.
By integrating advanced technologies such as AI and BSF larvae, the project offers a holistic approach to improving poultry health and productivity.
With a focus on responsible farming practices and reducing environmental impact, this initiative is setting new standards for ethical and sustainable poultry production, paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.
News Credits: £3m awarded to power welfare and sustainability in poultry production
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