Internationally renowned specialists participated in the Chilean Society of Animal Production (SOCHIPA) 50th Conference, delving into the challenges and transformations that will shape the pork and poultry sector. From new opportunities to recover by-products and move toward circular economy models, to innovative practices to tackle antimicrobial resistance, their insights offer a strategic look at the future of sustainable production.
In these exclusive interviews, experts review the industry’s priorities for the coming years, as well as the opportunities that lie ahead for Chile in terms of sustainability, biosecurity, and health management.
Interview with Dr. Nora Restrepo-Sánchez, Professor, Chemistry Institute, Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences. University of Antioquia (Colombia)
A specialist in environmental chemistry, green chemistry, and organic synthesis, she Dr. Restrepo-Sánchez leads the Interdisciplinary Molecular Studies Group (GIEM), which focuses on sustainable solutions for the recovery of biomass and agro-industrial by-products following a circular economy approach.
– Your presentation focused on innovation, profitability, and sustainability. What was the main idea behind it?
That waste should not be seen as a problem, but as a source of value. Sustainability can go hand in hand with productivity, and Chile is in a good position to take advantage of this: it has an orderly production system with high standards that is connected to demanding markets. This opens up a major opportunity to engineer solutions that transform waste into new products and financial returns.
– What opportunities do you see for Chile to promote the recovery of animal by-products?
Although regulations and cultural perceptions continue to limit their use, many by-products are technically high quality enough even for pharmaceutical applications. In a country with carbon-poor soils, these materials can be converted into fertilizers to reduce dependence on imports. There is also huge potential for partnerships with industries that already process shells, membranes, bones, and tissues into high-value products.
-What do you consider to be the main barriers to scaling these solutions in the pig sector?
The cultural barrier is significant. This requires business models, feasibility studies, and better coordination between science and industry. Examples already exist in India, Brazil, and the United States that show how these technologies are moving forward quickly and can be adopted.
-From a strategic perspective, what should be the priority in the coming years in terms of sustainability?
Managing odors and capturing emissions—especially ammonia—should be a top priority. Not only to reduce environmental impacts, but also to transform these compounds into agricultural inputs. It is a tangible opportunity to build the circular economy that is applicable to the sector.
– How can collaboration between Latin American countries help accelerate this transition?
Latin American collaboration could play a key role, especially if it focuses on animal health as the basis for any sustainability strategy. Working together to align health standards, share best practices, and coordinate regulations would help reduce risks and improve competitiveness. By doing so, we could scale up sustainable solutions in a more organized and effective way for the entire region.
Interview with Dr. Randall Singer, Professor, University of Minnesota (United States)
Dr. Singer is a veterinarian, PhD, and professor in the Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences. A specialist in antimicrobial resistance, his work has focused on developing transmission models, risk analysis, and strategies to reduce resistant bacteria and improve food safety.
– What was the core message of your presentation?
That antibiotics are necessary to prevent, control, and treat diseases in poultry, but each use produces pressure that can cause resistant bacteria. The challenge is to use them responsibly: “as little as possible, as much as necessary,” without compromising animal welfare or health.
– What management practices have proven most effective in slowing the spread of resistance?
Strictly following dosages and instructions, complying with withdrawal periods, strengthening biosecurity, and prioritizing disease prevention. Prevention always means using fewer antibiotics than treatment. It is also essential to balance productivity and public health by relying on laboratory analysis, shared data, and integrated decision-making systems.
-What opportunities do you see for Chile in terms of resistance control strategies in poultry and pigs?
Chile is already working under an integrated approach to animal, human, and environmental health. Strengthening laboratories, connecting systems, and opening up data will help reduce risks and preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics. Chile is in a strong position to become a leader in the region.
-What is the role of risk communication between producers and consumers?
A fundamental one. Many consumers believe that animals should not be given antibiotics, but animals need to be treated when they get sick. Educating the public about responsible use strengthens consumer confidence and food safety. The goal is not to ban antibiotics, but to use them wisely and safeguard their effectiveness.
