Chemicals used by the poultry industry

The safe and effective use of chemicals within the live production phases of the poultry industry requires the implementation of integrated health programs. Chemical programs will vary with regard to phase, intended usage, and method and frequency of application. The term "chemicals" herein presented excludes drugs and non-nutritive feed additives, with primary emphasis on sanitation products (i.e., detergents, disinfectants, sanitizers, deodorizers, descalers, and possible combinations), pesticides (i.e., insecticides and rodenticides), and brief mention of soil litter treatments for environmental management of air quality at the farm level. Chemical usage by phase, location, and frequency of application are summarized. Products that are effective, environmentally and user friendly, and applied within label specification will provide for safe, economical, and long-term success of poultry health programs. Such programs must be supported by management and maintained through education and product stewardship administered cooperatively with chemical suppliers, technical consultants, and end users.