What does "all natural" really mean in today's turkey industry? In this episode of Turkey Talk, Sheila and Greta sit down with experts from Dosto Farms, including researchers, veterinarians, and industry professionals, to explore the role of natural essential oil-based products in modern poultry production. The conversation covers the differences between natural and synthetic compounds, how essential oils are developed from seed to finished product, and why gut health, immunity, and bird resilience are becoming increasingly important as producers face new challenges. Guests share real-world experiences using natural solutions alongside traditional management tools and discuss how producers can evaluate products and build effective health programs for their flocks.
In this episode of Turkey Talk, Sheila and Gretta kick things off with some lighthearted summer stories before diving into an informative discussion about natural animal health solutions and their growing role in turkey production. Joining the conversation are representatives from Dosto Farms, including research and development leaders. Together, they explore what "all natural" means in livestock production and explain how Dosto Farms develops essential oil-based products through a fully controlled process that begins with seed selection and continues through harvest, extraction, and formulation.
The group discusses the differences between natural and synthetic compounds, highlighting how complex plant-derived essential oils can provide multiple benefits beyond a single active ingredient. Topics include bird acceptance of feed additives, gut health, immunity, inflammation, respiratory health, and the importance of supporting overall bird resilience rather than simply reacting to disease challenges. They provide a veterinarian's perspective on how natural products fit into today's production systems, emphasizing that these technologies are not necessarily replacing traditional tools but rather adding valuable options to the toolbox. The discussion also explores how producers can evaluate products, identify trusted partners, and focus on understanding the biological systems they are trying to support within the bird.
The episode concludes with a conversation about changing consumer expectations, antibiotic stewardship, and how producers can take a proactive approach to flock health by combining sound management practices with innovative technologies. Whether you're already using natural products or simply curious about the science behind essential oils in poultry production, this episode offers practical insights into the evolving landscape of turkey health and performance.