Karan Beef, South Africa’s largest beef producer, has confirmed an outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) at its Heidelberg feedlot in Gauteng.
BusinessTech reports that the facility spans 2 330 hectares and houses 145 000 cattle.
It is the biggest of its kind in Africa and a vital supplier to the country’s retail, butchery and restaurant sectors.
The company detected the disease on 30 May 2025. This came despite maintaining stringent biosecurity measures, including quarantine protocols and thorough veterinary checks before admitting new cattle.
Industry on Alert Despite Strict Controls
In a statement, Karan Beef said the outbreak highlights the ongoing risks the livestock industry faces, even with strict control measures in place.
Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral illness affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, and pigs.
It can severely impact livestock production and disrupt both local and international trade.
While most animals recover, the disease leaves them weakened and can result in significant economic losses.
Containment Measures Underway
Karan Beef is now working closely with State Veterinary Services to contain the outbreak and prevent its spread to other parts of the industry.
Authorities typically respond to FMD outbreaks with immediate action. They isolate infected animals.
They halt animal movements. In some cases, they depopulate affected areas through controlled slaughter.
Authorities then carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection as part of these efforts.
Karan Beef has not provided details on what the next steps will be. It also has not disclosed how the outbreak will affect its beef supply across South Africa.
Commitment to Transparency and Animal Welfare
Karan Beef assured stakeholders that it remains committed to transparency, regulatory compliance, and the highest standards of animal health and welfare.
“Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the company added.
The outbreak raises concerns about the vulnerability of the country’s livestock sector to transboundary animal diseases, even in tightly controlled environments.
Do you trust major beef producers like Karan Beef to act quickly and transparently during disease outbreaks?
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