African poultry producers opt for energy efficiency

Each month more producers in Africa are discovering the value of increasing the energy efficiency of their poultry housing, according to Allan Meldrum, director of Food Chain Innovation Ltd.

Over the past year producers in six African countries have begun using the energy-efficient lining Valéron AVA which provides a durable radiant barrier to maintain a favourable environment in the poultry house.

Valéron AVA is a lining material with two highly reflective aluminium surfaces for optimising energy usage, helping to keep poultry cool in hot climates and conserving heat in colder zones. It is manufactured in the UK and Belgium to seal units from air leakage and moisture as well as enhance climate control. The latest sales of the material have been to Kenya, South Africa, DRC Congo, Tanzania, Zambia and Botswana.

“People using it report better environment control than ever,” said Allan Meldrum. “They are experiencing increased productivity, reduced brooding costs of around 25% and in some cases the ability to increase stocking rates by more than 20%.

“We now have repeat business from many of our clients, and are looking to expand our activities in other parts of the world. Currently we have advanced negotiations with companies in Papua New Guinea, Saudi Arabia, Jamaica, Chile and China.”

Source: Food Chain Innovation