PIC Injects Funds into Daybreak Foods After Starvation Scandal

Millions of birds suffered as NSPCA and authorities take action

A national scandal over starving chickens at Daybreak Foods, one of South Africa’s largest poultry producers, has prompted urgent intervention from the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) and the NSPCA. Images and reports of chickens resorting to cannibalism triggered public outrage and legal action, exposing years of mismanagement at the company.

Millions of chickens suffered

The NSPCA confirmed that over one million birds were subjected to extreme neglect, sparking an international outcry. Criminal charges have been laid against the former directors of Daybreak Foods for gross negligence and systemic mismanagement.

“This catastrophic failure shocked the world. Our investigations revealed complete abdication of responsibility by leadership, and the welfare of these animals was criminally neglected,” said the NSPCA. The organisation continues to monitor the remaining breeder operations closely, conducting weekly inspections and verifying feed, mortality, and welfare reports.

PIC injects R200 million for business rescue

In response, the PIC has appointed a new board of directors and pledged more than R200 million in additional funding. Daybreak Foods was placed under business rescue on 20 May 2025, with the goal of preserving approximately 3,000 jobs and salvaging shareholder value.

“The funding will address immediate operational needs, including salaries, and support the emergency phase of the business rescue plan,” said Tebogo Maoto, senior business rescue practitioner. He added that only hatchery and breeder operations are currently active, while a full plan for reactivating other operations is being prepared.

Balancing corporate spin and reality

Daybreak Foods’ corporate messaging paints a picture of dedication, innovation, and responsibility. Their website emphasises sustainability, customer trust, and social impact. In reality, the company struggled to pay salaries and maintain basic IT services, highlighting the gap between image and operational reality.

The new directors, appointed by the PIC, include five agricultural and veterinary specialists and two accountants, suggesting a stronger focus on professional management and animal welfare.

Questions linger on South Africa’s corporate oversight

While the PIC and NSPCA work to stabilise Daybreak Foods, the scandal raises broader questions about regulatory oversight. Why did years of mismanagement go unchecked? Could proactive intervention have prevented a public animal welfare disaster?

For now, the hope is that the business rescue process and PIC funding will turn the company around, safeguard jobs, and ensure no further animal suffering occurs.

If you like, I can also create a sidebar “Timeline of the Daybreak Foods Chicken Crisis” that charts key events, from the first complaints to NSPCA action and PIC intervention. This would make the article more engaging and shareable online.

{Source: The Citizen}

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