A new upcoming book by Prof. Caven Mguvane Mnisi as lead editor and fellow researchers is repositioning ostrich, quail, waterfowls and other non-chicken poultry at the centre of discussions about food security and sustainable farming systems.

Published by Elsevier, Non-chicken Poultry Production examines how alternative poultry systems can help meet growing global demand for animal protein while reducing pressure on conventional chicken production systems.

A professor in the subject group Animal Science and director of the Food Security and Safety research niche area of the North-West University (NWU), Prof. Mnisi co-edited the book alongside Prof. Elijah G Kiarie from the University of Guelph in Canada and Prof. Victor Mlambo from the University of Mpumalanga. The book, consisting of 17 chapters, focuses on sustainable poultry production systems, nutritional strategies, bird welfare and health, and long-term economic sustainability in alternative poultry farming.

Prof. Mnisi said the book responds to increasing concerns around global food security and the need to diversify animal protein sources.

Food systems under pressure from many sources

“Population growth, urbanisation and rising demand for animal protein continue to place pressure on existing food production systems. Non-chicken poultry species offer opportunities to diversify production while contributing to sustainable food systems,” he said.

He added that the book was intended to serve as a valuable resource, offering both scholarly and practical perspectives for researchers, students, and poultry producers. “We wanted to produce a resource that addresses nutrition, welfare and production challenges in non-chicken poultry systems, while also identifying opportunities for innovation and sustainability within the poultry industry,” Prof. Mnisi said.

The book also explores how alternative poultry systems can create opportunities for both commercial and small-scale producers.

“Food systems are changing globally, and there is a growing need to develop adaptable and sustainable livestock production systems that can respond to future food demands,” he said.

Prof. Mnisi holds a PhD in poultry nutritional science and is a registered professional natural scientist with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions. He is a National Research Foundation-rated researcher and has published 94 peer-reviewed scientific papers focusing on poultry nutrition and sustainable animal production.

The book adds to growing international research focused on sustainable agriculture and strengthening food security through alternative poultry production systems. The book brought together an international cohort of contributing authors from various countries, including the United States, Canada, Greece, Iran, and several other regions worldwide. The book is available for pre-orders at discounted prices on the following link:Non-chicken Poultry Production - 1st Edition | Elsevier Shop

Caven Mguvane Mnisi.”