The organic option – a whole system way of thinking

The Organic Feed Company nutritionist Joanna Palmer, looks at feeding your poultry and livestock organically.

- Joanna Palmer

Rearing poultry and livestock organically involves much more than simply feeding them an organic feed. It is a ‘whole system’ approach to farming and food production. To sell your animals’ produce as organic, the land they are kept on must be certified organic and managed appropriately. Poultry and livestock must be kept in accordance with the standards set by organic governing bodies, such as the Soil Association, on housing, space allowance and the routine resting of land, with maximum emphasis placed on animal welfare and allowing a truly free-range life. Poultry and livestock must be treated ethically and have their species-specific physiological and behavioural needs met. As the routine use of vaccines and antibiotics is not permitted on organic farms, there is a greater reliance on developing natural immunity for flocks and herds to remain healthy and productive. Therefore, good husbandry and hygiene are essential to prevent disease outbreaks and control parasite infestations.