The world of poultry farming, especially when it comes to laying hens, has seen a significant transformation. It is no longer just about making more eggs quickly and efficiently. Nowadays, consumers, who are represented by those who process and sell the eggs, are demanding higher standards of animal welfare. They want the eggs they buy to come from chickens that have been raised with care and consideration for their well-being.
Professor Ali Agus, a pioneer in the field of free-range chicken farming research, has noted this shift. He has been researching and developing the concept of free-range chicken farming for the past six years. He also founded a scientific-based company, PT Agromix Lestari Group, to further this work. According to Professor Ali Agus, the move towards free-range chicken farming is driven by the growing demand to move away from the traditional battery cage system.
The concept of cage-free farming, which usually involves closed housing with no cages, but instead, provides nests for egg laying and roosting areas, is becoming more popular. Additionally, free-range farming takes it a step further by allowing chickens to roam freely and graze outdoors. Professor Ali Agus explains, "The trend worldwide is to move away from keeping layers in battery cages because of increasing calls to abandon this system."
The transition to the free-range system has not been without its challenges. In the early stages, there were more mistakes than successes. Professor Ali Agus drew inspiration from free-range systems in countries like the Netherlands and Germany and adapted them on a smaller scale in Indonesia. However, his determination and commitment to the cause, combined with diligent data collection and analysis, have led to significant progress.
The free-range system allows chickens to express their natural behaviors, such as walking around, socializing, dust bathing, perching, and more. It is not just about freeing them from cages; it is about producing food that is not only halal (permissible) but also healthy for everyone in the community. This concept aligns with the Ministry of Agriculture's idea of producing "ASUH" food, which stands for safe, whole, and halal.
The "toyib" aspect of food production is achieved through the free-range system, as it ensures the welfare of animals is a top priority. Chickens raised in this manner are healthier due to lower population density and are generally happier. In fact, Professor Ali Agus has even given the label "Happy Chicken Eggs" to eggs produced through this system. The quality of the products is also upheld because the extensive farming practices of free range systems reduce the need for antibiotics and pesticides while minimizing the risk of microbiological contamination, such as salmonella.
Professor Ali Agus emphasizes that being antibiotic and pesticide-free is a significant concern for consumers today. Therefore, the transition to the free-range system in poultry farming is not just a trend but an important step towards producing healthier, more humane, and safer food for all.
