Spotlight on: Farm biosecurity

Neogen Farm Fluid MAX is a powerful disinfectant designed for challenging farm conditions. It is effective against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.

The product recently received DEFRA approval for Disease of Poultry Orders and General Orders (including avian influenza), meaning it is now DEFRA-approved for all five possible disease orders, which is testament of the versatility of the product, explains Alex Gomez, Neogen EMEA animal safety field technical and sales support specialist. 

Its dual active biocide formulation ensures a reliable solution for preventing avian influenza incursion in poultry farms, in combination with other biosecurity measures, he adds.

Specifically, it is known for its efficacy in inactivating up to 100% of sporulated and non-sporulated oocysts, which makes it particularly useful in controlling coccidiosis. 

Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts exposed to 2% Neogen Farm Fluid MAX for 24 hours showed a killing rate over 95%, meaning that Neogen Farm Fluid MAX performs above the European guided efficacy under DVG guidelines against the main causative protozoa of cryptosporidiosis, Cryptosporidium parvum.

Neogen Farm Fluid MAX is suitable for use in various animal housing environments, including poultry, swine, cattle, and other livestock, and is ideal for general final disinfection of animal housing in between production cycles.

Its robust UV resistant chemistry makes Neogen Farm Fluid MAX at 1% dilution particularly effective for disinfecting vehicle wheels to prevent the spread of pathogens.

The product is also suitable at 1% dilution for both covered and uncovered boot dips, with minimal degradation by direct sunlight. Meanwhile, removable equipment can be immersed in a prepared solution for thorough disinfection.

Tailored formulation

Commenting on what sets the product apart from other products on the market, Jonathan Thomas-Nash, Neogen EMEA animal safety product manager, says:

“From a technical perspective we have tailored our formulation using available actives to offer improvements in bacterial biocidal efficacy compared with competitor products.

“In addition, we also pursued proven efficacy across three field strains of Eimeria protozoa known as causative agents of coccidiosis at up to 100% efficacy.  

“Fundamentally we offer this product as a key part of our Neogen Pathogen Control Programme whereby we can position appropriate disinfectants and cleaners for biosecurity across all farm operations.”

Optimising efficacy

To maximise the efficacy of Neogen Farm Fluid MAX, it is important to follow the recommended usage guidelines, Alex stressed.

“For buildings, preparation will start by cleaning the area to remove organic matter. Ideally, we would then soak the surfaces, apply a foaming alkaline detergent like Farm Foam EVO, let it work for 30 minutes and rinse before applying the disinfectant. 

“If following a Neogen Pathogen Control Programme, we would recommend using two disinfectants to ensure maximum disinfection benefits. We would first recommend using our Neogen Viroxide Super and, when surfaces are dry, then apply Neogen Farm Fluid MAX.

“Neogen Farm Fluid MAX can be applied at different dilutions depending on the target pathogens; at 1% dilution for general disinfection or at 2% dilution when targeting coccidia oocysts. When applying disinfectants, use spraying equipment to ensure even coverage at 300ml per square metre.”

Alex continues: “For equipment, like for buildings, we will start by cleaning equipment thoroughly to remove dirt and organic matter. Immerse removable equipment in a prepared 0.5% solution of Neogen Farm Fluid MAX for a maximum of 30 minutes.

“Allow sufficient contact time to ensure effective disinfection. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific contact times.

“By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that Neogen Farm Fluid MAX provides optimal protection against a wide range of pathogens, helping to maintain a healthy and biosecure farm environment.”

Developments 

Neogen Farm Fluid MAX was soft-launched during late 2024 in advance of full regulatory approvals so the company could prepare suitable market trials. Neogen has since received market and DEFRA support and approvals so that it can position for wider biosecurity uses in key markets.  

The product has its origins in the Farm Fluid S formulation, which in the late 1990s to early 2000s was a market leading disinfectant, Jonathan explains.

“The knowledge and cognisance towards environmental and human health aspects of some chemistries has meant that other biocides had to be developed which offer effective solutions with reduced collateral implications.  

“More recent scientific developments have meant that safer formulations can now be offered which still provide effective biocidal solutions. Neogen Farm Fluid MAX engages the inherent robustness and performance of the Farm Fluid brand with new enhanced efficacy.”

Neogen’s key programme currently is to expand the reach of its Neogen Pathogen Control Programme within its markets.  

“This biosecurity theme is fundamental to the success of any food production operation to optimise output and improve profitability,” Jonathan says.

“With the regulatory restrictions placed upon biocides, we also plan to explore developing existing chemistries to enhance biocidal efficiency and the range of pathogens we can target to enhance disease reduction.

“This is supported through providing field support to facilitate correct application and appropriate biosecurity protocols.”

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