Revolutionizing Poultry Farming: Insights from Jelle Moonen

In recent years, both in-ovo vaccination and on-farm hatching methods have garnered attention for their innovative approach to broiler farming. Poultry World recently visited Jelle Moonen, a 27-year-old broiler farmer in Deurne-Diest, Belgium, who has successfully implemented these techniques over the past 18 months. During the visit, Moonen shared his motivations and experiences in embracing these advancements within the poultry sector.

The Drive for Innovation

From a young age, Moonen envisioned enhancing the broiler operations initiated by his parents. However, to turn his vision into reality, he knew that traditional methods would not suffice. With the industry evolving rapidly, he recognized the potential benefits of integrating technology and advanced practices into his farming strategy.

In-Ovo Vaccination and On-Farm Hatching

Moonen’s farm employs in-ovo vaccination, a method where vaccines are administered directly into the egg before incubation. This approach not only improves the health of the chicks but also boosts their overall growth and yield. He believes that the early intervention significantly reduces the risk of disease outbreaks, a crucial concern for any farmer.

In addition, Moonen has adopted on-farm hatching—a practice that allows for greater control over the hatching process. By utilizing advanced equipment, he can monitor variables such as temperature and humidity in real-time, ensuring optimal conditions for the developing embryos. “The integration of data loggers has transformed the way we manage our hatching process,” he noted.

Real-Time Monitoring

The use of data loggers is pivotal in Moonen’s management practices. Continuous monitoring of the eggs and overall environmental conditions of the housing ensures that factors affecting hatching success are always within optimal ranges. “Collaborating with my NestBorn advisor and maintaining real-time data insights has been instrumental in achieving our operational goals,” Moonen stated.

Conclusion

Moonen’s commitment to modernizing his farming techniques serves as an inspiration for other producers in the poultry industry. By adopting innovative practices like in-ovo vaccination and on-farm hatching, he is setting a benchmark for quality and efficiency in broiler farming. As the poultry sector continues to evolve, how other farmers respond to these advancements could very well define the next generation of poultry practices.

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