Serious blow to South Africa’s beef industry

Karan Beef, the largest beef producer in South Africa, has been hit with a case of foot and mouth disease (FMD) at its feedlot facility in Heidelberg.

The Karan Beef feedlot in Heidelberg is the largest facility of its kind in Africa, with an area of 2,330 hectares, and it accommodates 145,000 head of cattle.

It is the most important feedlot in South Africa and plays a crucial role in providing South African retailers, butcheries, and restaurants with beef.

On 30 May 2025, Karan Beef identified foot and mouth disease at its Heidelberg feedlot despite its strict adherence to all biosecurity measures.

These measures include quarantine protocols and thorough veterinary inspections prior to the intake of cattle.

“This unfortunate development highlights the ongoing risks faced by the livestock industry, even under rigorous control systems,” the company said.

Karan Beef is working closely with State Veterinary Services to ensure swift containment and to minimise any further risk to the broader industry.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting livestock like cattle, swine, and sheep.

It is a transboundary animal disease that significantly impacts livestock production and disrupts regional and international trade in animals and their products.

FMD is characterised by fever and blister-like sores on the tongue and lips, in the mouth, on the teats and between the hooves.

The disease causes severe production losses, and although the majority of affected animals recover, it often leaves them weakened and debilitated.

If foot-and-mouth disease is detected in a feedlot, immediate action is crucial to control its spread.

This includes reporting the outbreak to authorities, isolating infected animals, and implementing strict biosecurity measures.

In affected areas, depopulation through controlled slaughter may be necessary, followed by thorough cleaning and disinfection.

Karan Beef has not provided details on what the next steps will be or how it will affect its beef delivery across South Africa.

The company stated that it remains committed to transparency, compliance, and upholding the highest standards of animal health and welfare.

“Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the company said in a statement.