Implementing Respeggt technology to reduce day-old culling in the US poultry industry

We are proud to announce the implementation of Respeggt technology to reduce the controversial practice of day-old male chick culling in the poultry industry, offering a more ethical and sustainable solution for poultry farmers in the U.S. The decision came after careful and in-depth consideration, and this cutting-edge, in-ovo sexing technology will be integrated into Hendrix -ISAs’ hatchery operations in Nebraska in early Q1 2025.

"Our decision is based on the outstanding results that Respeggt has been achieving for years in Europe, particularly with the strong Dekalb White genetics," emphasizes Neal Martin, General Manager of Hendrix ISA. He said the technology will be the first in the US to offer sexing for both brown and white breeds.

The Respeggt technology allows for the early determination of a chick's sex before hatching, eliminating the need to cull male chicks, which has been a widely debated and controversial practice. This innovative technology aligns with Hendrix Genetics’ commitment to sustainability and animal welfare, offering a major leap forward in the company’s goal of fostering a more responsible agricultural industry.

“This technology is a game-changer for farmers, helping increase efficiency while adhering to the highest ethical standards. Our adoption of Respeggt Technology represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to improve the poultry industry,” said Steve Welch, Director of Sales & Marketing.

The integration of Respeggt technology will enable Hendrix Genetics to provide farmers with a tool that identifies the sex of embryos with precision, leading to more productive and resource-efficient poultry production. This marks a new era of innovation in the U.S. poultry industry, focusing on both the future of farming and the welfare of animals. This spring, Hendrix-ISA will start the implementation with DeKalb White birds for the Kipster farm in collaboration with MPS Egg Farms to meet Kipster’s commitment to no-culling of male chicks.

“Hendrix-ISA is the first hatchery to offer this animal welfare solution to both white and brown egg brands – putting the end of male chick culling in sight for the U.S. market,” said Nancy Roulston, Senior Director of Corporate Policy and Animal Science, ASPCA Farm Animal Welfare. “The ASPCA applauds Hendrix-ISA for its leadership in choosing Respeggt in-ovo sexing technology and empathy to address this issue.”

Hendrix-ISA LLC. will continue to monitor the market demands in the U.S. with plans to scale up poultry operations in key markets. The company intends to collaborate with industry to ensure it meets the needs of the industry regarding the reduction and elimination of male chick culling with the implementation of in-ovo sexing.

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:

Neal Martin – General Manager, Hendrix-ISA LLC.