Aviagen opens modern veterinary diagnostic lab in Tennessee

Aviagen has opened a new veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Crossville, Tenn. Diagnostic testing began at the new facility in April.

Photo courtesy of Aviagen
Photo courtesy of Aviagen

Aviagen continues to further its commitment to optimal poultry health, welfare and biosecurity with the opening of a new veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Crossville, Tennessee.

Diagnostic testing began at the new facility in April, and the grand opening celebration was on June 19. The laboratory encompasses 13,680 square feet (4,170 square meters) of areas dedicated to highly specialized capabilities such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), molecular diagnostics and virus isolation testing. Other routine laboratory work will include bacteriology, serology, genomics research and pathological exams.

Crossville laboratory services pedigree poultry breeding stock

The diagnostic laboratory replaces an existing smaller one that has been in operation in Crossville since 1994 and will serve the diagnostic needs of Aviagen’s pedigree poultry breeding stock. The expansion was needed to fulfill an increasing demand for Aviagen breeds worldwide.

The Crossville laboratory is Aviagen’s second in the U.S. to service internal breeding operations and numbers among the company’s seven laboratories, which are strategically positioned throughout the continents. The laboratory will initially be staffed by 28 highly skilled personnel, including veterinarians, microbiologists and technicians.

Laboratory meets domestic, international health requirements

The Crossville laboratory meets all United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) standards, as well as the International Standards Organization (ISO) 9001:2008 quality requirements. NPIP authorization is needed to conduct official health testing to ensure breeding stock and hatching eggs can be sold within the U.S. and exported to other countries.

“The Crossville laboratory features modern equipment, leading technology and the industry’s most advanced expertise,” says Keith McCay, Aviagen’s director of Pedigree/Great Grandparent Operations. “Through its advanced capabilities, it provides the level of diagnostic services needed to continually monitor and protect our flocks against harmful pathogens.”

Aviagen remains dedicated to the health, welfare and safety of our quality breeding stock. As we broaden the reach of our business both domestically and globally, this new laboratory will help us continue to effectively safeguard our elite pedigree breeding stock,” adds Dr. Eric Jensen, vice president of Veterinary Services for Aviagen North America. “Maintaining the highest standard of biosecurity has always been and will remain a foremost priority for Aviagen.”

Highland construction recognized for work on lab

McCay also recognizes the efforts of Danny Dillard of Highland Construction for making the Crossville laboratory a reality. "Dillard and his team went above and beyond to effectively meet our specialized facility needs and quality requirements, while adhering to an aggressive timeline for completion.”

Mayor commends new laboratory

Crossville Mayor Mayberry says he’s proud to have Aviagen as part of his community and wishes the company continued success. “Aviagen has been an important part of Crossville for many years, with several facilities located in our community,” says Mayberry. “We are pleased to see the successful expansion of Aviagen with this new diagnostic laboratory, as well as the progress and prospect of new jobs it may bring.”

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