Enterococcal infections (E. cecorum) pose one of the most persistent challenges in modern broiler production, driving leg disorders, skeletal lesions, and costly mortality. In response, Veterinary clinic of Perutnina Ptuj, Slovenia has implemented a forward‑thinking, antibiotic‑sparing preventive program that is transforming flock health and production outcomes. By integrating lactic acid and probiotics into the drinking water, this simple yet powerful approach optimizes gut pH, suppresses harmful pathogens, and strengthens the intestinal microbiota from the earliest stages of life.

The results speak for themselves: significantly fewer enterococcal and other bacterial infections, more robust digestion, improved feed efficiency, and visibly healthier birds. Across all farms, the protocol consistently delivers a 0.5–1% reduction in mortality, better FCR, higher daily gain, and stronger flock uniformity, enhancing both productivity and profitability. With an investment of just €60 per batch of 20,000 birds, farmers achieve a net gain of €300–740 per cycle through reduced losses and improved performance.

Beyond the economic advantages, the program is a major step forward for sustainability and animal welfare. Antibiotic use is reduced, environmental impact is minimized, and broilers benefit from stronger mobility, more stable growth, and a healthier start. The protocol is easy to adopt, requires no additional equipment, and can be tailored to any production system, making it highly accessible for farms across Europe.

This preventive approach demonstrates that high animal welfare, strong flock health, and economic efficiency can go hand in hand, offering a practical, science‑driven solution that elevates broiler production to a higher standard of performance and sustainability.