BioSec Bob here on Thursday, April 9, 2026 — let’s get right into it.
Pork Business is looking at artificial intelligence’s growing role in swine production, and the technology’s becoming harder to ignore on modern farms. AI systems are now handling everything from individual animal health monitoring to feed optimization and predictive maintenance on equipment. Producers using these tools report better herd performance data, faster detection of sick animals, and more efficient resource management across their operations. The investment’s substantial, but the feedback from early adopters suggests the payoff in reduced mortality, improved feed conversion, and labor efficiency is real.
On the disease front, African Swine Fever has turned up in Durg, India, according to thehitavada.com. Three hundred pigs died and another 150 were euthanized in response to confirmed ASF cases at that location. India’s been working to keep the virus contained, but these outbreaks underscore how quickly the disease can spread through affected areas when it takes hold.
Staying with swine health but shifting to alternative approaches — SciTechDaily and Pork Business are both reporting on research into natural compounds as potential substitutes for antibiotics in pig production. Researchers conducted a long-term study examining oregano and rosemary extracts as feed additives, and the results show measurable benefits in swine health and performance when combined with extended observation periods. The study suggests these natural oils can reduce reliance on antibiotics while maintaining productivity, though the timeline for seeing full benefits appears longer than with pharmaceutical interventions. This kind of data matters as regulations around antimicrobial use in livestock continue to tighten globally.
Over to poultry — WATTPoultry.com reports that Newcastle disease has hit two more commercial flocks in Poland in recent days. Newcastle remains a serious respiratory threat to poultry operations, and Poland’s been dealing with recurring outbreaks. Producers in regions with history of Newcastle circulation need to stay sharp on biosecurity protocols.
Wrapping up on the positive side: Brownfield Ag News is reporting another year-over-year gain in broiler placements. The US broiler sector continues to show solid placement momentum, which suggests steady demand and production confidence heading into the spring season.
Keep your eyes on both the tech opportunities and the disease alerts — it’s a mixed picture out there.