Brazilian poultry sector loses millions following climate catastrophe

BBC reports that the floods have resulted in the death of more than 165 people, with many others still missing. In the poultry sector, Rio Grande do Sul state reported 1.2 million dead birds due to floods. Photo: Secom (Secretaria de Comunicação do Rio Grande do Sul)

The climate catastrophe in Brazil’s state of Rio Grande do Sul, causing significant flooding, has resulted in 1.2 million dead birds, equating to losses of €35 million.

The first diagnosis shows that 552,000 adult birds were lost, including 279,000 broilers, 150,000 laying hens, 120,200 breeders and 2,800 grandparents. In addition, the tragedy also killed 1.04 million broiler chicks and 981,300 fertile eggs.

Farms, feed factories and slaughterhouses

Carried out from 5-20 May, the survey shows damage or losses to 20 poultry houses, in addition to pieces of equipment, feeders, drinkers and nests. Floods also affected feed factories and food processing industries, and 4 slaughterhouses stopped their activities, with damage to equipment, engines, electrical network, pipes, generators and water tanks.

“It’s impactful. Those losses will change the production scenario, the market, and investment in the sector. Even preliminary data is very worrying. We need to provide financial and economic support so that these industries and producers can recover,” highlights José Eduardo dos Santos, the president of the poultry association, Asgav.

Whole supply chain affected

Representatives of the poultry industry in Rio Grande do Sul indicate that the consequences of the third flood in less than a year, especially in the Taquari Valley, affect customers such as minimarkets, markets and supermarkets.

According to him, such retailers are out of stock and do not have the financial capacity to pay short-term debts. There is also a loss of trucks, packaging and feedstocks.

“It is important that all federal and state help happen quickly and effectively, without bureaucratic processes and obstacles, because the situation requires an act of courage and justice on the part of government officials when providing atypical assistance to help this sector that contributes so much to the economy of the state and the country,” dos Santos concluded.