10 to 13 November 2026 in Hanover, Germany – Guiding theme “Intelligence in Animal Farming” – DLG Expert Stage: Biosecurity and Feed Safety – addressing current challenges and innovative strategies – Hall 21.
Biosecurity is a key success factor for healthy, sustainable and economically viable livestock production. Whether in pig, cattle or poultry farming, consistent hygiene measures, effective disease prevention, continuous health monitoring and farm-tailored vaccination programs play a crucial role in preventing animal diseases and safeguarding herd health over the long term. In addition to sound management practices, barn hygiene, access controls, early detection and modern preventive measures are essential components of effective disease control.
EuroTier 2026, a leading trade fair for livestock farming, taking place from 10 to 13 November in Hanover, Germany will address these challenges through its DLG Expert Stage: Biosecurity and Feed Safety, placing particular emphasis on practical solutions for disease prevention and herd health management. Organized by the DLG (German Agricultural Society), the world’s leading trade fair for professional livestock farming and livestock management is expecting some 2,100 exhibitors from 55 countries across 13 halls.
As livestock production faces increasing demands related to animal health, animal welfare and economic performance, effective biosecurity management has become more important than ever. At the same time, animal diseases such as African swine fever (ASF), foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) continue to pose significant risks.
For pig, cattle and poultry producers alike, prevention remains the most effective form of protection. Robust biosecurity measures, hygiene protocols and tailored vaccination strategies form the foundation for interrupting infection chains, maintaining animal health and avoiding economic losses.
Pig production: animal health begins with prevention
For pig producers, improving animal health remains a top priority. A stable herd health status enhances animal welfare, reduces labor and production costs and improves overall performance. Key factors include an optimized barn climate and feeding strategies tailored to the animals’ needs, both of which contribute significantly to health and productivity.
Biosecurity, the practice of protecting livestock from infectious diseases through preventive management and hygiene measures, is increasingly important. Against the backdrop of African swine fever, biosecurity remains one of the most important areas of innovation in pig production. ASF has led to strict biosecurity requirements, continuous monitoring obligations and, in the event of an outbreak, herd depopulation and movement restrictions. Smaller operations in particular face considerable challenges in meeting these demands. The outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease last year further underlined the importance of preventive measures.
Cattle: biosecurity protects both herd health and profitability
Improving animal health is also a key priority in dairy farming. Although cattle production has experienced fewer major disease outbreaks in recent years than the pig and poultry sectors, biosecurity should not be underestimated. The practice provides essential protection for the health of the entire herd.
Since the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in January 2025, particular attention has been paid to biosecurity measures on farms keeping cloven-hoofed animals. Consistent barn and personnel hygiene, vehicle disinfection, reducing unnecessary farm visits and replacing in-person meetings with digital or telephone consultations where possible can significantly reduce disease introduction risks. Comprehensive documentation and immediate reporting of suspected cases are equally important.
Poultry: biosecurity determines flock protection
In the poultry sector, biosecurity and hygiene are of paramount importance, with highly pathogenic avian influenza representing the greatest threat. Since October 2025, numerous outbreaks in poultry populations and infections among wild birds have been recorded worldwide. The most effective protection remains the rigorous implementation of biosecurity measures to prevent disease introduction and spread.
Particular emphasis is placed on thorough cleaning and disinfection of poultry houses during downtime periods. This includes removing fat and protein residues using alkaline cleaners, followed by disinfection with approved products and effectiveness testing through environmental swabs. Strict personnel hygiene is equally critical. The separation of clean and dirty areas, changing footwear and clothing, regular handwashing and visitor logs are standard practice. External vehicles should avoid entering farm premises whenever possible. If vehicles must visit multiple farms, cleaning and disinfection are essential. Preventing contact between wild birds and feed, water or outdoor areas is also crucial, while rodent and insect control remain important components of disease prevention.
EuroTier 2026: biosecurity in focus
Biosecurity will be one of the major themes of EuroTier 2026 under the guiding theme “Intelligence in Animal Farming.” Through its DLG Expert Stages and DLG Spotlights, the exhibition will address key future challenges in livestock production, including disease prevention and feed safety.
The DLG Expert Stage “Biosecurity and Feed Safety” in Hall 21 will feature specialist presentations and panel discussions covering current challenges and practical solutions, from modern hygiene concepts and feed quality assurance to innovative technologies for herd management and disease prevention.
The program will be complemented by species-specific DLG Expert Stages, where experts from farming, science, industry and advisory services will present the latest developments and future-oriented production and housing concepts.
For professional visitors, EuroTier 2026 offers a unique opportunity to gain concise insights into the latest findings and proven strategies for improving biosecurity, while discussing practical solutions directly with experts. Presentations, panel discussions, live demonstrations and networking formats will provide an ideal platform for exchanging experiences, exploring new technologies and evaluating solutions for individual farming operations.
