The latest edition of Poultry World is available online. In this edition, we visit a layer farm in Finland, explore the dynamics of the meat industry in the ASEAN zone, and consider animal welfare indicators at a broiler slaughterhouse. Discover these insights and more in our latest online edition.
Alarming Drop in US Hatchability of Broiler Breeder Eggs
As of 2025, the hatchability of broilers in the US has plummeted by 6 percentage points compared to its peak in 2012. This crisis not only incurs significant costs for the industry but also poses a severe challenge in producing enough broiler chicks to satisfy consumer demand. In this issue, Poultry World delves into research conducted by Innovate Animal Ag, discussing the underlying causes and offering mitigation strategies with input from various stakeholders.
Overcoming the Hatchability Crisis
At the end of January 2025, columnist Rick van Emous, from Wageningen UR livestock research, attended meetings in Atlanta at the IPSF and IPPE conferences. During the sessions, the ‘hatchability crisis’ was frequently flagged by participants from the US breeder industry, highlighting its preeminence in current discussions.
Separating Male and Female Broilers: A Growing Trend
A noteworthy insight from the recent Eurotier livestock exhibition in Hannover indicates that broiler farming is on the threshold of a significant transformation. The practice of fattening mixed flocks—housing both males and females together—is becoming increasingly unsustainable.
Interview: Strengthening Market Position Through Acquisition
Danish company Novonesis has recently acquired DSM-Firmenich’s stake in the Feed Enzyme Alliance, taking over their sales and distribution activities. Executive VP, Tina Sejersgård Fanø, elaborates on how this acquisition will enhance their market presence and what it means for the industry.
Addressing Avian Influenza: Protecting Our Flock
The alarming spread of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza is causing devastating losses to poultry populations globally, impacting not only birds but also increasing spillover cases into mammal species. This ongoing situation underscores the pressing need for comprehensive strategies to safeguard poultry health.
Farm Spotlight: Collaborative Growth at Säkylän Munakori
Ida Toivonen manages Säkylän Munakori, a modern farm in Finland that houses 140,000 DeKalb White laying hens across four identical houses. Established in 2021/2022 on a new site, this farm is a cooperative venture among 20 poultry farmers, culminating in a collective total of approximately 1.5 million layers.
Animal Welfare Indicators in Broiler Slaughterhouses
To achieve optimal pricing for animal products, it is crucial to understand consumer preferences. While safety, quality, and affordability remain top priorities, there is an increasing expectation for products that uphold stringent animal welfare standards. Continuous monitoring and enhancement of these standards are essential for sustaining market competitiveness.
The Meat Industry Dynamics in the ASEAN Region
Despite a population of approximately 636 million in 2022, the ASEAN economic area contributed a mere 5.3% to global meat production that year. This article examines the variances among the ten member states over the years 2012 to 2022, focusing on how African Swine Fever (ASF), avian influenza, and COVID-19 have shaped the landscape of meat production and trade.
Exploring the Benefits of Water Acidification
In today’s antibiotic-free poultry production landscape, the utilization of feed and water additives presents poultry producers with viable alternatives to enhance bird health and overall performance.
