On 19th and 20th November, Indonesia's poultry professionals gathered at the Novotel Hotel Bogor for Huvepharma's Intestinal Health Workshop.
The first day focussed on practical strategies for improving gut health, optimizing nutrition, and controlling diseases, giving participants actionable knowledge they could immediately implement in their operations.
Dr. Maarten De Gussem, Global Poultry Consultant at Vetworks, opened the session, emphasizing that effective poultry management starts with understanding the fundamentals of gut health.
"I don't want you to leave with knowledge that stays in the sky," he said. He explained how the unique anatomy of broilers with short intestinal tracts and strong gizzards affects digestion and nutrient absorption. Poor gut structure can trigger bacterial enteritis and reduce feed efficiency.
Tony Unandar, a private poultry farm consultant in Indonesia added that early-life gut development is critical: beneficial microbes such as Lactobacillus establish themselves in the first days and support long-term health.
"Early development determines everything that follows," he stressed. Proper nutrient absorption during the mechanical, enzymatic, and microbial stages enables birds to effectively face environmental and health challenges.
Dr Maarten also highlighted the strategic management of additives, warning against the use of overlapping or antagonistic products. "Only by listing and evaluating all additives together can you find synergy, prevent antagonism, and save 20-30% of costs," he said, promoting a data-driven, holistic approach.
Controlling risks and optimizing performance
Coccidiosis remains a costly threat worldwide. Dr Maarten explained that even minor infections destroy intestinal cells, impair nutrient absorption, and weaken feed efficiency, particularly in tropical climates like Indonesia where heat and humidity accelerate oocyst sporulation. Ben Dehaeck, Global Product Manager Coccidiostats and Huvepharma emphasized that while alternative products support intestinal health, they do not replace proper coccidial control. Combination products like Monimax are essential for parasite management and consistent flock performance.
Miriam Alberto-Tempra, Global Head Nutritional Consultancy Services at Vetworks highlighted the role of nutrition, feed structure, and ingredient management. Enzymes, probiotics, and fibres can enhance digestion, prevent dysbiosis, and maximise broiler performance. Dr Maarten concluded that integrating fundamental gut knowledge, early microbial development, strategic additive use, and effective disease control forms the foundation of healthier, more productive flocks. By applying these insights, participants were left equipped to optimize performance while reducing costs and production losses.
