Blockchain technology in poultry disease traceability
Author(s): Vikram S
Abstract: Poultry farming is a critical components of global food systems but remains highly vulnerable to recurrent infectious disease outbreaks. Traditional record-keeping methods in the poultry supply chain are often fragmented and unreliable, limiting the ability to trace disease origins and implement timely interventions. Blockchain technology, first introduced by Nakamoto in 2008, offers a decentralized, transparent and immutable framework for managing sensitive data across record-keeping, real-time data sharing and automated compliance through smart contracts, blockchain ensures end to end traceability of poultry health and movement. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices further enhances surveillance by automating collection of environmental and health related data. This article explores the application of blockchain in poultry disease management, focusing on its ability to improve outbreak investigation, recall efficiency, compliance monitoring and consumer trust. Challenges such as infrastructure gaps, organizational resistance and data privacy concerns are also discussed along with future opportunities involving artificial intelligence and molecular traceability. Overall, blockchain represents a transformative solution for strengthening disease control, safeguarding food safety and fostering innovation in the poultry industry.
