Innovations in technology are revolutionizing the poultry industry, offering proactive solutions for optimizing bird health and performance. Among these advancements, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are proving to be invaluable tools in analyzing poultry blood biomarkers to detect and address potential challenges.
Matthew Livingston, Verax’s business development manager at dsm-firmenich, explains, “This technology utilizes machine learning to leverage a comprehensive array of data points, including blood data, seasonality, breed, bird sex, and various metrics. It then applies neural network technology to make predictions and provide prescriptive diagnostics, going beyond mere observation to proactive intervention.”
Blood biomarkers serve as crucial indicators of bird health, encompassing factors such as calcium levels, sodium chloride, protein, hemoglobin, and more. By inputting this information into a neural network, the technology undergoes training to recognize patterns and deviations associated with potential diseases or nutritional deficiencies.
Neural networks, a subset of machine learning, emulate the processing capabilities of the human brain, enabling the system to interpret data in a manner akin to human cognition. As the neural network learns from datasets of blood biomarkers, it gains the ability to identify early signs of health issues or nutrient imbalances in poultry flocks in real-time.
Furthermore, this technology doesn’t stop at detection; it also offers recommendations for nutritional strategies to mitigate potential risks based on the data it analyzes. This proactive approach empowers producers to make informed decisions and implement preventive measures before issues escalate.
Livingston emphasizes the importance of periodic monitoring, stating, “Ideally, we perform this analysis around four times a year, considering seasonal variations in factors like electrolytes and heat stress. The machine reveals patterns that may not be immediately apparent, allowing us to address issues preemptively.”
By harnessing the power of AI and machine learning, poultry producers gain a comprehensive understanding of their flocks’ health status and nutritional needs. This proactive approach not only enhances bird welfare but also contributes to the overall efficiency and sustainability of poultry farming operations.