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FARMING PRACTICES

A fresh egg comes from a healthy hen.

The first step in producing the best quality eggs
is ensuring that our birds are well looked after.

ANIMAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

At Nulaid, our priority is ensuring that our hens are treated humanely, we adhere to stringent protocols in our farming, packing and supply chain operations and follow international best practices and the guidelines set by the South African Poultry Association (SAPA).

We provision our farms with the Lohmann Brown variety of chicken, specifically bred for egg-laying purposes. It is a crossbred line and is selectively bred from lines of the Rhode Island breed and White Rock breeds.

HOUSING SYSTEMS

Commercial

The majority of our birds are housed in spacious cages which allow for free head movement when standing. We create the best possible environment for them, the majority of our houses are climate controlled, clean and equipped with automated feed and water provision. Bio security protocols are strictly enforced.

Free-range

Our free-range hens, which are housed at two Nulaid farms, experience the freedom to roam and forage outdoors during the day.

FEEDING AND CARE

Our poultry feed is scientifically formulated and prepared at Nova Feeds, a division of our Group, Quantum Feeds. Their  mills are nationally located and manufacture a balanced diet of natural grains, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, all hormone-free. They have constant access to clean water. Regular health checks and vaccinations are industry standard to maintain the health of our flock. We do trim the birds’ beak in cases to avoid injury and ultimately create a safer environment for close living, allowing them to live healthier and happier lives.

Bio security / Hygiene

Strict biosecurity measures are implemented on each farm to prevent diseases, and our suppliers and contract facilities follow the same standards. We take great care to ensure that our birds have access to fresh water, feed, ventilation, and suitable lighting. The upkeep of the facilities on our farms, including cages, houses, roofs and temperature control systems are under a strict schedule that is adhered to. There is also controlled visitor access and comprehensive veterinary health plans in place.

We work with our veterinary consultants to continuously review biosecurity, vaccination, and flock health programs. By taking this proactive approach, we can protect our birds and enhance farm efficiency. If an infection is detected, affected birds and eggs are contained under state veterinarian supervision.

We are committed to providing regular animal welfare and biosecurity training to all our farm employees. To uphold our high standards, we welcome unscheduled NSPCA visits and our egg production and packing facilities undergo annual food safety audits. In addition, our operations are reviewed annually for ESG compliance.

SUSTAINABILITY

We are dedicated to..

ESG FOCUS

We’re dedicated to advancing strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices for a sustainable, ethical, and responsible business. We track our ESG performance through comprehensive on-site reviews and consider environmental impacts, including carbon emissions.

In 2023, Quantum Foods Board adopted a new sustainability policy, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on responsible consumption and production, decent work and economic growth, and zero hunger.

ENERGY SAVINGS

Through Quantum Foods, we’ve embraced alternative energy options and eqip our farms and pack stations with solar. We’ve also upgraded to more efficient gas heating solutions for our chicken houses combined with energy efficient insulation, significantly reducing our energy costs. All our facilities have backup electricity generators.

REDUCING PLASTIC

We’ve introduced new carton trays that are smaller in size, using less packaging material whilst  maintaining strength and volume.

GREY WATER

Reusing the water for non-potable uses has helped conserving natural resources, supporting sustainable water management practices