Karan Beef managing impact of FMD outbreak

Karan Beef has suspended cattle intake at its Heidelberg feedlot following an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), which was confirmed in early June.

- Glenneis Kriel

Henk Groenewald, general manager of Karan Beef, told Farmer's Weekly that Karan Beef understood that the suspension would have direct implications on cattle operations and livestock planning, but the step was taken to contain the disease and mitigate any risk to the broader livestock industry.

The financial impact on Karan Beef is expected to be substantial.

Groenewald explained that movement restrictions will result in animals having to stay in the feedlot longer than planned, which will increase standing days and result in higher feed consumption and overheads, such as labour, utilities and veterinary care.