The new version of the standards will come into effect from 29th September 2025, following the standard three-month notification period.  

The updated standards include, among others, changes to the housing confinement contingency plan with veterinary inputs being required. This will be used in the event free-range birds need to be housed, e.g., during disease housing orders. 

RSPCA Assured is also introducing new standards, which are set to take a ‘prevention is better than cure’ approach and require antibiotics to be used responsibly and only when necessary. Prophylactic use will be prohibited.  

Each farm must also carry out an annual on-farm antibiotic use review as part of the veterinary health and welfare plan.  

It has been recommended that producers adopt new AI technology to improve animal welfare at slaughterhouses. RSPCA Assured said it is reviewing intelligent camera surveillance for abattoirs to increase welfare oversight and flag up issues in real time.  

The assurance scheme also recommends verandas being installed on all free-range chicken units. This is set to encourage ranging, improve litter and provide semi-outdoor shelter. It will not become a mandatory requirement, however. 

‘Progress and improvement’

RSPCA Assured assistant director of certification, Neil Scott, said: “We are able to continually progress and improve the lives of millions of farmed animals thanks to the ongoing commitment of our members. 
 
“Our RSPCA Assured members have been helping us to improve the welfare of chickens since 1996, when the first RSPCA welfare standards for chickens were published. 
 
“All RSPCA Assured members want the best for the animals in their care, and we hope these updated standards will help them to keep achieving their higher welfare goals.” 
 
The organisation explained that its welfare standards are continually improved and progressed using the latest scientific research, robust evidence and practical farming experience.   
 
New, potential or existing RSPCA Assured members who are in need of support or advice about meeting the updated broiler standards should contact RSPCA Assured’s farming and technical engagement team via membership services online. 
 
Find out more and view the updated chicken standards here and on the RSPCA Assured website.
 
Read more livestock news. 

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When Diane Scott wanted an extra revenue stream to complement her husband’s dairy business, she needed a lender who would take the time to understand how her new egg production venture would work.

Rather than going to a bank which might just rely on AI algorithms, Diane was keen to find a lending organisation who, she explains, “could see what I was trying to do and how I was trying to do it”.

Her accountant recommended Rural Asset Finance – a company specialising in supporting farm businesses, who know the day-to-day challenges because their staff have either run farms themselves or come from farming families. “They immediately understood what I was talking about and what I wanted to achieve,” Diane says.

The team used their decades of first-hand farming experience to run an in-depth analysis of Diane’s egg production business case, her financial forecasts and the project’s stakeholders before coming up with a three-fold solution to give her the funding she needed to launch her company Littlemount Eggs Ltd in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland.

Quick approval

“First we consolidated and increased the couple’s historic farm mortgage,” explains Rural Asset Finance CEO Matthew Smart, “to give them a new, more affordable long-term loan which funded the build of the new chicken house and its associated infrastructure.

“Then we provided a multi-asset hire-purchase agreement, combined with a DAERA grant, to finance a state-of-the-art, 135m, multi-layer poultry shed that housed the birds to the highest free-range standards.

“Further equipment leasing facilities then added a solar array to the chicken shed roof, a back-up generator and an automatic egg packer and stacker.”

And because Rural Asset Finance has its own in-house legal and compliance teams, the company was able to process and approve Diane’s application quickly. It all meant she was soon able to welcome her flock of Lohmann chickens.

“We were approved quickly and the money came through soon after that,” she says. “Rural Asset Finance were really professional and efficient. Their communication was outstanding throughout, keeping us in the picture every step of the way. “But it’s more than that – it’s their personal, customer service,” adds Diane.

“They have been so supportive and so interested in what we’re doing – and they still are. The types of questions they ask and the conversations we have with them show that they properly understand farmers.”

Now, Littlemount is providing 24,000 eggs per day to retailers, hotels and other customers across Northern Ireland.

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With avian influenza (AI) continuing to disrupt poultry operations across the UK, the launch of Livestock Protect comes at a critical time, says Julian Sparrey, group technical director and co-founder of Livetec.

“HPAI continues to expose the urgent need for a more robust, 360-degree approach to biosecurity across the poultry sector,” he explains.

“Livestock Protect has been developed to fill that gap, giving producers the tools to manage risk in real-time – making faster, more informed decisions and improving operational efficiencies to help protect their flocks and businesses from disease threats.”

Poultry disease – Transforming biosecurity

As a leading provider of emergency poultry depopulation services for notifiable diseases, Livetec has used its extensive frontline experience, industry data, and welfare-first mindset to help producers streamline operations and improve disease resilience.

Mr Sparrey explains the easy-to-use platform and accompanying mobile app is designed to reduce paperwork and simplify biosecurity management, while empowering all poultry keepers to make faster, data-led decisions to minimise the risk of outbreaks.

“Livestock Protect is available via a subscription model, in three packages to suit different business needs, including a free app-only version that provides access to essential features,” he says.

“Among these features are real-time AI outbreak mapping – including wild birds – which gives producers immediate visibility of disease threats, and our biosecurity chatbot powered by Google Gemini – Paula – which provides instant access to expert advice when it’s needed most.”

Advanced features

Mr Sparrey explains the Premium and Enterprise packages offer additional functionality.

“Premium and Enterprise users will also get access to eBAS – our unique biosecurity assessment system that delivers weighted risk scores and tailored recommendations for each farm – as well as AccessProtect, which enables simple visitor logging for full traceability at all times.”

For Enterprise users, the platform includes practical emergency response tools, such as a depopulation calculator, live operations dashboard and access to national outbreak plans.

“These features can also be purchased as bolt-ons to the Free and Premium packages, giving producers the flexibility to build a package that best suits their business needs and risk profile,” Mr Sparrey adds.

Scalable tech

Built with scalability in mind, Livestock Protect is already being adopted by large-scale integrators and producers and is accessible across iOS, Android, and web platforms.

“While initially focused on the poultry sector, we are actively working to extend the platform’s capabilities across other livestock sectors, including pigs, to support wider industry resilience,” Mr Sparrey concludes.

For more information and to watch a demo of the Livestock Protect platform, visit: https://www.livetecsystems.co.uk/livestock-protect-platform/

About Livetec

Founded in 2010, Livetec Systems is a leading livestock protection solutions provider dedicated to supporting UK producers with biosecurity and disease management.

With a wealth of expertise in the team, the company provides practical, effective solutions to reduce poultry disease risk, safeguard productivity, and maintain high animal welfare standards.

Livetec’s comprehensive approach combines consultancy, advanced biosecurity technology, on-farm equipment and a mobile disease-risk tracking app to help farmers protect their stock.

Through close collaboration with academic, veterinary and industry professionals, the company says it drives innovation to equip farmers with solutions they need to navigate biosecurity threats with ease and contribute to a resilient and secure food system.

Key features

The Livestock Protect platform brings together practical, data-driven tools designed to make biosecurity management easier, faster, and more effective for poultry producers.

Core features include:

• AI outbreak mapping – providing real-time zone notifications, wild bird surveillance, and historical outbreak data
• eBAS biosecurity assessment system – delivering weighted risk scores and tailored recommendations based on Livetec’s extensive experience
• AccessProtect – QR code-based visitor logging for full traceability
• Biosecurity chatbot ‘Paula’ – powered by Google Gemini, offering instant biosecurity advice with a knowledge base curated by Livetec’s in-house experts
• Depopulation calculator and live operations dashboard – supporting emergency response planning
• National outbreak plans and emergency response tools – ensuring users are prepared to act quickly and effectively.

Read more about Livestock Protect on the LiveTec website.

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In the world of animal husbandry, the wellbeing of your livestock is paramount.

From poultry to pigs, ensuring that your animals are comfortable, healthy, and thriving is a top priority for any dedicated farmer.

But have you considered how the right lighting can transform your rearing practices?

Curalux says heat lamps offer a revolutionary solution that not only illuminates, but also enhances the lives of your animals. 

Curalux explains the benefits of its heat lamps…

Optimal temperature control

Maintaining the right temperature is critical for your livestock’s health.

Curalux heat lamps provide consistent, adjustable heating that allows you to create the perfect environment for your animals, regardless of the season.

Newborns, in particular, benefit greatly from the warmth these lamps provide, reducing the risk of hypothermia and promoting healthy growth. 

Energy efficiency

In today’s economy, every penny counts. Curalux heat lamps are designed with energy efficiency in mind, helping you save on electricity costs while still providing the warmth your animals need.

By choosing Curalux, you’re not just investing in your livestock’s comfort but also making a fiscally responsible decision that benefits your bottom line.

Enhanced health and productivity

Healthy animals lead to productive farming. Curalux heat lamps contribute to the overall wellbeing of your livestock by reducing stress and promoting better growth rates.

The warmth from these lamps encourages feeding, digestion, and overall activity, leading to healthier animals and, ultimately, better yields for your farm.

Versatile applications

Whether you are rearing chicks in a brooder, keeping young pigs warm, or providing supplemental heat for older animals, Curalux heat lamps are versatile enough to suit various needs.

Their design allows for easy adjustments, making them ideal for any farming situation. No matter what type of livestock you raise, these lamps can be tailored to meet their specific requirements.

Safety first

Curalux heat lamps are built with safety in mind. Featuring durable materials and advanced technology, these lamps minimise the risk of overheating and potential fire hazards.

You can have peace of mind knowing that your livestock is safe while they get the warmth they need.

User-friendly features

Setting up and using Curalux heat lamps is a breeze. With straightforward installation and intuitive controls, you can quickly get your livestock’s environment just right without any hassle.

This means more time for you to focus on what you love most – caring for your animals and growing your farm.

A bright future awaits

Transforming your animal-rearing practices is just a lamp away, Curalux says.

The company concludes: “Curalux heat lamps are not just a product; they are a commitment to the health and happiness of your livestock.

“By investing in these innovative heating solutions, you are ensuring that your animals thrive, your operational costs decrease, and your farming practices become more efficient. 

“Don’t let your livestock suffer from the cold or inadequate lighting any longer.

“Light up your livestock with Curalux heat lamps and watch your farm flourish like never before. The future of animal rearing is bright – make sure you’re a part of it!”

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In 2016, the chain had committed to sourcing only cage-free whole eggs by the end of this year. 
 
However, that commitment has now been quietly removed from Iceland’s website, indicating a policy reversal, BFREPA said. 

An Iceland spokesperson told The Grocer that the move is set to help customers during the cost-of-living crisis, prioritising affordability over cage-free sourcing. 
 
The retailer said that it still supports consumer choice and will continue offering free-range and barn eggs while trying to provide higher-welfare options at prices people can afford. 

Farmers Guide approached Iceland for further comment.

‘The future for hens is clearly cage-free’

The move has drawn criticism from animal welfare campaigners, including Compassion in World Farming (CIWF). 

Louise Valducci,  head of food business (EU programme) at CIWF, said: “It’s deeply disappointing that Iceland has abandoned its 2025 cage-free egg commitment, especially when so many other UK retailers have already met or are progressing towards their cage-free goals.  

“Hens confined to small wire cages are denied the freedom to express natural behaviours, and all animals farmed in cages suffer immensely. That’s why we work with food companies to ensure every animal can live a cage-free life.  

“Iceland’s decision not only reflects a troubling disregard for animal welfare but also risks serious reputational damage. The future for hens is clearly cage-free, and consumers are rapidly consigning cages to history.  

“With legislation to ban cages within reach, this is a backward step that leaves Iceland behind.” 

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The latest risk assessment shows that the risk of avian influenza levels in wild birds and poultry has reduced. This means poultry and other captive birds will no longer need to be housed and can now be kept outside, chief veterinary officer said. 

The lifting of housing measures applies to all areas unless keepers are in a protection zone or a captive bird monitoring (controlled) zone – these are areas where there has been a recent outbreak. 

Defra explained that scrupulous biosecurity is the best deterrent to stopping the spread of avian influenza. Birdkeepers are legally required to adhere to the highest biosecurity standards, with an avian influenza prevention zone (AIPZ) mandating strict biosecurity remaining in place in England, Scotland and Wales.  

This includes measures such as disinfecting footwear, clothing and vehicles and equipment before and after entering premises. 

Bird gatherings, such as fairs and markets, remain banned. 

READ MORE: Regulations amended to support poultry farmers during bird flu outbreaks

Prepare for safe release

UK chief veterinary officer, Dr Christine Middlemiss, said: “Following a sustained period of reduced risk from avian influenza, we are now able to lift the mandatory housing measures in effect in various counties, which is testament to the hard work and vigilance of bird keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease. 

“While the lifting of mandatory housing measures will be welcomed by bird keepers, it is imperative that keepers continue to practice stringent biosecurity and that any suspicions of disease are reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency immediately.” 

Dr Middlemiss added that those who intend to allow their birds outside are advised to use the upcoming days to prepare their outside areas for the safe release of their birds, as ranges and outdoor areas may still be contaminated with the avian influenza virus.  

This will include cleansing and disinfecting hard surfaces, fencing off ponds or standing water, and reintroducing wild bird deterrents. 

As birds have been housed for several months, it may be necessary for birds to be acclimatised and gradually released over a period of days to minimise welfare issues, the expert advises. 

“Keepers are encouraged to take action to prevent bird flu and stop it spreading. Be vigilant for signs of disease and report it to keep your birds safe,” Dr Middlemiss concluded. 

Check if you are in a bird flu disease zone on the map and check details of the restrictions for further advice and information.   

Bird keepers must register within one month of keeping poultry or other captive birds at any premises in England or Wales, further information is available here. 

READ MORE: £35k raised for farmer who had to cull 5k hens due to bird flu

Read more livestock news.

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Chicken meat is the most consumed meat in the UK, but only a fraction is produced to higher welfare standards, RVC said.

The college explained that the BCC’s science-based standards for broiler chicken welfare address issues relating to fast growth, housing, stocking density, and slaughter to help drive the food industry towards higher welfare practices.

To better understand the challenges and limitations to achieving higher welfare standards, the RVC interviewed 30 representatives with knowledge and engagement with BCC – specifically relating to why switching to slower-growing broilers appeared particularly problematic.

Need for transformative change

Co-funded by the Animal Welfare Foundation and the British Poultry Council, the findings showed that participants generally agreed with scientific evidence that slower-growing strains have better welfare than conventional fast-growing chickens housed under the same conditions.

However, some felt increased economic and environmental costs associated with slower growth created a barrier. There were also uncertainties around consumer willingness to pay for these welfare improvements.

Differing views about the feasibility of solutions were underpinned by different conceptions of sustainability. Retailer and industry representatives emphasised the importance of minimising carbon footprint to meet net zero targets.

They also felt a responsibility to provide ‘cheaper’ chicken to meet consumer demand and avoid consumers switching to poorer welfare imports costing considerably less. Because of these factors, they considered the use of slower-growing broilers economically and environmentally unviable.

These participants preferred to see a focus on improving the welfare of conventional broiler strains or using more efficient intermediate-growth strains as a compromise between welfare and sustainability.

In contrast, representatives of welfare charities, scientists and assurance schemes discussed sustainability more holistically. This included exploring environmental factors such as water pollution and biodiversity as well as social and economic factors.

They perceived animal welfare as integral to sustainable production, and thus it should not be compromised to meet environmental targets.

Additionally, they did not believe consumer purchases reflected true preferences due to consumer confusion about production practices and labelling.

These participants emphasised the need for transformative change within the food system, encompassing ways to reduce economic and environmental costs associated with slower-growing broilers; improved clarity in labelling and marketing to better align consumer purchasing with preferences; and a ‘less but better’ approach to consumption of chicken.

Urgent need for better understanding of consumer expectations

Dr Siobhan Abeyesinghe, associate professor in animal behaviour and welfare science at the RVC and lead author of the paper, said: “These results show that we urgently need a better understanding of UK consumer expectations about broiler welfare and welfare labelling and how they prioritise welfare in relation to environmental costs and price.

“This is a major missing piece of the puzzle that stakeholders currently face for realistically evaluating both the importance and feasibility of different improvements to the welfare of over a billion chickens each year.

“If welfare improvements are to be market driven, then welfare gains must be significant for the additional costs involved, valued by consumers and balanced against other sustainability goals.”

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FAI and project partners The Lakes Free Range Egg Company, Newcastle University and Agri-Tech Centre UK have received Innovate funding for FLOCKWISE, a three-year project to further enhance the award-winning BirdBox technology.

BirdBox analyses a range of data gathered from sensors on a farm, including listening to the sound the hens make, to identify any potential problems. It then integrates data collection and reporting from the farm to the packing centre. 

Using on-farm software and in-house sensors is set to deliver better bird health and welfare and improved productivity. Intuitive dashboards provide egg packers with oversight of performance across their farm supply for optimised operations, FAI explained.

A spokesperson for the company added: “The on-farm results speak for themselves: on average, producers see a production increase of 3.5% in eggs per hen housed and a mortality reduction of 1.8% after installation of BirdBox, bringing a return on investment within one flock (for an average 16,000 birdhouse).”

According to BBC News, The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) hopes the three-year trial will improve animal welfare and eventually reduce egg prices for British shoppers.

The Flockwise project

The successful BirdBox technology is now being developed further through a three-year Innovate UK-funded project involving FAI, The Lakes Free Range Egg Company, Newcastle University and the UK Agri-Tech Centre.

Flockwise stands for ‘Facilitating Learning Opportunities, Cultivating Knowledge and Welfare through Integrated Sensing and Expertise’.

The project aims to further develop the existing BirdBox system through integrating novel sensors to detect additional health, welfare and productivity indicators and use artificial intelligence to provide guided insights, informed by real-time industry data, to farmers and the wider supply chain, FAI added.

“Flockwise is looking to help address the key health and welfare challenges seen within cage free laying hen flocks – namely piling and smothering, pecking and respiratory diseases.

“Not only will this improve flock health and welfare, but by doing so will realise gains in productivity, efficiency and sustainability,” the company concluded.

Read more poultry news.

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Neogen Farm Fluid MAX is a powerful disinfectant designed for challenging farm conditions. It is effective against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.

The product recently received DEFRA approval for Disease of Poultry Orders and General Orders (including avian influenza), meaning it is now DEFRA-approved for all five possible disease orders, which is testament of the versatility of the product, explains Alex Gomez, Neogen EMEA animal safety field technical and sales support specialist. 

Its dual active biocide formulation ensures a reliable solution for preventing avian influenza incursion in poultry farms, in combination with other biosecurity measures, he adds.

Specifically, it is known for its efficacy in inactivating up to 100% of sporulated and non-sporulated oocysts, which makes it particularly useful in controlling coccidiosis. 

Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts exposed to 2% Neogen Farm Fluid MAX for 24 hours showed a killing rate over 95%, meaning that Neogen Farm Fluid MAX performs above the European guided efficacy under DVG guidelines against the main causative protozoa of cryptosporidiosis, Cryptosporidium parvum.

Neogen Farm Fluid MAX is suitable for use in various animal housing environments, including poultry, swine, cattle, and other livestock, and is ideal for general final disinfection of animal housing in between production cycles.

Its robust UV resistant chemistry makes Neogen Farm Fluid MAX at 1% dilution particularly effective for disinfecting vehicle wheels to prevent the spread of pathogens.

The product is also suitable at 1% dilution for both covered and uncovered boot dips, with minimal degradation by direct sunlight. Meanwhile, removable equipment can be immersed in a prepared solution for thorough disinfection.

Tailored formulation

Commenting on what sets the product apart from other products on the market, Jonathan Thomas-Nash, Neogen EMEA animal safety product manager, says:

“From a technical perspective we have tailored our formulation using available actives to offer improvements in bacterial biocidal efficacy compared with competitor products.

“In addition, we also pursued proven efficacy across three field strains of Eimeria protozoa known as causative agents of coccidiosis at up to 100% efficacy.  

“Fundamentally we offer this product as a key part of our Neogen Pathogen Control Programme whereby we can position appropriate disinfectants and cleaners for biosecurity across all farm operations.”

Optimising efficacy

To maximise the efficacy of Neogen Farm Fluid MAX, it is important to follow the recommended usage guidelines, Alex stressed.

“For buildings, preparation will start by cleaning the area to remove organic matter. Ideally, we would then soak the surfaces, apply a foaming alkaline detergent like Farm Foam EVO, let it work for 30 minutes and rinse before applying the disinfectant. 

“If following a Neogen Pathogen Control Programme, we would recommend using two disinfectants to ensure maximum disinfection benefits. We would first recommend using our Neogen Viroxide Super and, when surfaces are dry, then apply Neogen Farm Fluid MAX.

“Neogen Farm Fluid MAX can be applied at different dilutions depending on the target pathogens; at 1% dilution for general disinfection or at 2% dilution when targeting coccidia oocysts. When applying disinfectants, use spraying equipment to ensure even coverage at 300ml per square metre.”

Alex continues: “For equipment, like for buildings, we will start by cleaning equipment thoroughly to remove dirt and organic matter. Immerse removable equipment in a prepared 0.5% solution of Neogen Farm Fluid MAX for a maximum of 30 minutes.

“Allow sufficient contact time to ensure effective disinfection. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific contact times.

“By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that Neogen Farm Fluid MAX provides optimal protection against a wide range of pathogens, helping to maintain a healthy and biosecure farm environment.”

Developments 

Neogen Farm Fluid MAX was soft-launched during late 2024 in advance of full regulatory approvals so the company could prepare suitable market trials. Neogen has since received market and DEFRA support and approvals so that it can position for wider biosecurity uses in key markets.  

The product has its origins in the Farm Fluid S formulation, which in the late 1990s to early 2000s was a market leading disinfectant, Jonathan explains.

“The knowledge and cognisance towards environmental and human health aspects of some chemistries has meant that other biocides had to be developed which offer effective solutions with reduced collateral implications.  

“More recent scientific developments have meant that safer formulations can now be offered which still provide effective biocidal solutions. Neogen Farm Fluid MAX engages the inherent robustness and performance of the Farm Fluid brand with new enhanced efficacy.”

Neogen’s key programme currently is to expand the reach of its Neogen Pathogen Control Programme within its markets.  

“This biosecurity theme is fundamental to the success of any food production operation to optimise output and improve profitability,” Jonathan says.

“With the regulatory restrictions placed upon biocides, we also plan to explore developing existing chemistries to enhance biocidal efficiency and the range of pathogens we can target to enhance disease reduction.

“This is supported through providing field support to facilitate correct application and appropriate biosecurity protocols.”

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From midnight (00:01) on Monday 7th April, keepers in Cumbria, County Durham, Northumberland and Tyneside must house their birds and continue to follow the strictest biosecurity as required by the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ).

This extension is in addition to those housing measures already in place across East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Shropshire, York, North Yorkshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire, as well as across the whole of Northern Ireland.

AIPZs mandating enhanced biosecurity are also in place across all of the UK. Mandatory housing also applies in any 3km Protection Zone or 3km Captive Bird Monitoring (Controlled) Zones in force surrounding an infected premises).

The AIPZ measures apply to all bird keepers, whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock, and are essential to protecting birds from avian influenza.

READ MORE: Regulations amended to support poultry farmers during bird flu outbreaks

READ MORE: £35k raised for farmer who had to cull 5k hens due to bird flu

‘Stay alert’

UK deputy chief veterinary officer, Ele Brown, said: “Due to the increasing number of bird flu cases in the north of England, particularly in regions with high-density poultry farming, we are extending housing measures to Cumbria, Durham, Northumberland and Tyneside.

“Bird keepers are urged to stay alert for any signs of disease, maintain strict biosecurity practices, and report any suspected cases of disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.”

The prevention measures introduced through the AIPZ, including the addition of mandatory housing measures, are introduced in a phased and escalating manner proportionate to the risk to an area, Defra added.

The AIPZ will be in place until further notice and will be kept under regular review as part of the government’s work to monitor and manage the risks of avian influenza.

Keepers are encouraged to take action to prevent bird flu and stop it spreading. Be vigilant for signs of disease and report it to keep your birds safe.

Check if you are in a bird flu disease zone on the map and check details of the restrictions and gov.uk/birdflu for further advice and information.  

You must register within one month of keeping poultry or other captive birds at any premises in England or Wales, further information is available. 

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