Global Poultry Experts Discuss Future of Broiler Nutrition at International Conference
The 7th International Broiler Nutritionists’ Conference, titled Poultry Beyond 2030, recently took place in Queenstown, New Zealand, from September 16 to 20. Sponsored by Aviagen®, the event brought together poultry industry leaders and top academic researchers to explore the future of broiler nutrition, focusing on sustainability and innovation.
A Global Platform for Poultry Nutrition Innovation
Attendees from over 20 countries participated in the prestigious conference, which kicked off with a traditional New Zealand Maori Pōwhiri ceremony. Nicola Grigg, New Zealand’s Associate Minister of Agriculture, delivered the opening address, setting the tone for a week of groundbreaking discussions on broiler nutrition and sustainability.
Aviagen played a key role in the conference, with notable presentations from Dr. Marcelo Silva, Head of Global Nutrition Services, and Dr. Peter Chrystal, Senior Poultry Nutritionist. Dr. Silva’s session, titled Recent Advances in Broiler Nutrition for Sustainable Future Outcomes, and Dr. Chrystal’s presentation on The Future of Nutrition and its Role in Sustainable Broiler Production: A Lifecycle Assessment, emphasized the importance of innovation in driving both bird welfare and sustainability in poultry production.
Collaborative Opportunities for a Sustainable Poultry Industry
The four-day event featured a variety of networking opportunities, where participants could exchange insights, share research, and collaborate on strategies to enhance competitiveness in the rapidly evolving poultry sector. Discussions highlighted the growing importance of optimal nutrition in ensuring the sustainability and affordability of poultry production, which plays a crucial role in feeding the global population.
Abbey Mathew, Aviagen New Zealand Operations Manager and chair of the session Towards a Sustainable Future, emphasized the significance of these gatherings. “It was a pleasure to host our global partners and customers for this important conference. Events like this allow us to implement our philosophy of ‘Breeding Success Together,’ and share innovative ideas that will shape the future of our industry,” she said. “Optimal nutrition is key to ensuring sustainable and cost-effective poultry production.”
Coltin Caraway, Director of Nutrition at Mountaire Farms, echoed these sentiments: “Poultry Beyond 2030 was an incredible event, featuring excellent speakers and relevant topics for both the present and the future. The opportunity to connect with fellow nutritionists and producers from around the world was invaluable.”
A Legacy of Innovation and Collaboration
First launched in the 1990s, the International Broiler Nutritionists’ Conference has been a key platform for advancing poultry nutrition. Though temporarily halted due to New Zealand’s COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, the conference made a strong return this year, reinforcing its role as a critical event for shaping the future of the poultry industry.
