Optimizing poultry production using RFID-based monitoring systems: A review article

Abstract

The poultry industry has witnessed rapid growth driven by rising global demand for affordable animal protein. However, this expansion brings challenges such as maintaining animal welfare, improving production efficiency, managing disease outbreaks, and ensuring product traceability. Traditional monitoring methods are often labour-intensive and prone to errors, limiting timely decision-making in intensive poultry farming systems. Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology offers a promising solution by enabling automated, real-time data capture on individual bird behavior, health, and movement. This review highlights the multifaceted role of RFID-based monitoring systems in optimizing poultry production. Beyond basic identification, RFID facilitates detailed tracking of laying patterns, feeding and drinking behavior, and locomotion, providing critical insights into welfare and productivity. Expanded applications include vaccine administration monitoring to ensure efficacy, supply chain and cold chain management to maintain product quality, and enhanced traceability from hatchery to market. Furthermore, RFID systems contribute to antibiotic usage reduction by supporting early disease detection and precise health management, promoting sustainable poultry farming. The technology also aids in selecting and managing disease-resistant flocks, aligning with global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance. Challenges such as tag durability, data integration, and system costs are discussed alongside emerging trends integrating RFID with IoT and AI for advanced analytics. Overall, RFID-based monitoring presents a transformative opportunity to enhance poultry health, welfare, and operational efficiency, paving the way for smarter, more sustainable production systems.