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The European poultry sector continues to adopt automation as a solution for reducing costs and increasing production consistency. Technical data analyzed at the European level indicate that farms using automated feeding systems, egg collection, and microclimate control reduce specific feed consumption by 3–6% and achieve better flock uniformity. In modern broiler farms, the feed conversion ratio can fall below 1.55, compared to values of 1.70–1.80 in less technologically advanced systems.
Microclimate control is one of the most important factors. An automated ventilation and cooling system maintains optimal temperature and humidity levels, which reduces mortality by 0.5–1.2 percentage points. Furthermore, continuous monitoring of ammonia concentrations lowers the risk of respiratory issues, improving flock health and weight consistency at delivery.
In Romania, investments in automation are increasing, driven by feed price volatility and the need to reduce energy consumption. Farms that implement digital monitoring systems can adjust growth parameters in real time, reducing performance variation between cycles. For 2025, the gap between competitive and vulnerable farms will depend increasingly on the level of digitalization and the efficiency with which the production cycle is controlled.
(Photo: Freepik)