At Livetec, we are committed to driving biosecurity advancements and supporting the poultry industry with expert advice and innovative solutions. Attending the NFU Poultry Research Seminar 2025 provided us with valuable insights, opportunities to connect with industry leaders, and reaffirmed the need for continuous investment in biosecurity and farm management technologies. 
Our Group Technical Director, Julian Sparrey, and Biosecurity Adviser, Jack Hughes, represented Livetec at the seminar. Their presence allowed us to engage in critical discussions on the latest research, industry challenges, and innovations in biosecurity and poultry welfare.
Biosecurity and Avian Influenza: The Need for Behavioural Change
One of the key discussions at the seminar was led by Paniz Hosseini, a PhD student and research associate at the University of Cambridge, who presented findings from the FluMap project. Her research explored farmers’ attitudes towards biosecurity and how effectively they implement it on their farms.
While many farmers adopt standard practices like foot dips, wheel washing, and limiting visitors, it was evident that these measures alone are not enough to prevent Avian Influenza (AI). Factors such as old infrastructure, limited resources, and the challenge of keeping wild birds off farms were highlighted as major obstacles. However, at Livetec, we believe that small, strategic changes can make a significant impact. Our biosecurity advisers work closely with farmers to provide tailored solutions that mitigate risks beyond basic compliance.
Another crucial takeaway from this session was the stress and anxiety AI outbreaks cause among farmers. Many feel powerless to control wild birds and struggle to secure the necessary funds for advanced biosecurity measures. This reinforces the importance of industry-wide education and training, something we are actively involved in through our biosecurity training programmes.
If you’re unsure whether your current biosecurity measures are enough to protect your farm, speak to our experts today. A proactive approach can make all the difference in safeguarding your flock.
The Role of Data in Poultry Health and Welfare
Another discussion was led by David Brass, CEO of The Lakes Free Range Eggs Co, and Carly Scott from FAI, focusing on integrating farm data collected from physical sensors. By tracking temperature, humidity, gas concentrations, and ammonia levels, researchers are beginning to correlate environmental conditions with poultry health and productivity.
An exciting development in this space is the use of video and acoustics to monitor bird behaviour. Understanding how birds react in different environments can provide crucial insights into welfare challenges such as crowding incidents. The ability to monitor bird behaviour remotely using AI-powered systems could be a game-changer for the industry.
At Livetec, we recognise the potential of data-driven decision-making. Our eBAS (Electronic Biosecurity Advisory System) helps farmers analyse risks and make informed biosecurity decisions.
Curious about how eBAS can transform your farm? Get in touch today to find out how our technology can help you take control of biosecurity risks.
The Future of Poultry Research and Innovation
The seminar also shed light on upcoming advancements in poultry research. Topics such as in-ovo sexing to reduce the culling of male chicks and alternative protein sources like duckweed were discussed in detail. With the UK exploring the use of genetic modification to improve efficiency and sustainability, it’s clear that the industry is on the brink of transformative changes.
Final Thoughts: Looking Ahead to 2026
The NFU Poultry Seminar provided a fantastic opportunity for us to engage with industry leaders, exchange knowledge, and identify areas for improvement. The discussions reaffirmed the need for continuous investment in biosecurity, data-driven decision-making, and industry collaboration.
For more information about Livetec’s biosecurity solutions and training programmes, please contact us today.
