Germany bans kitchen scraps for livestock after Newcastle Disease resurfaces
Authorities in Halle (Saale) have issued an urgent warning to all animal owners about the dangers of feeding kitchen scraps to livestock. The alert follows recent outbreaks of Newcastle Disease in Brandenburg, marking the first such cases in German poultry since 1996.
The first confirmed case appeared on 20 February 2026. By early March, at least four outbreaks had been recorded in the districts of Dahme-Spreewald and Spree-Neiße. These incidents have raised concerns about the spread of highly contagious diseases like Newcastle Disease and avian influenza.
Feeding food waste—including eggs and eggshells—to animals is now strictly banned. Even cooked scraps can carry harmful pathogens that survive processing. The prohibition covers all livestock owners, no matter how small their operation. Officials stress that the only safe method for disposing of kitchen and food waste is through approved waste management systems. Ignoring these rules risks introducing deadly diseases into the region. In severe cases, entire herds may need to be culled to prevent further spread.
The ban aims to stop the transmission of dangerous poultry diseases. Animal owners must comply with biosecurity measures to avoid severe consequences. Proper waste disposal remains the only guaranteed way to protect livestock and prevent future outbreaks.
