A new in-ovo sexing technology will be introduced into two hatcheries in the U.S. egg industry at the end of 2024.
The non-invasive machinery, labelled as Cheggy, is able to identify chick sex before hatch by using advanced hyperspectral imaging to accurately identify embryo sex based on feather color. The technology can process up to 25,000 eggs per hour and be applied in small- or large-scale operations.
The in-ovo technology is already installed and operational in seven hatcheries across France, Germany and Italy. The machinery was developed by poultry company Agri Advanced Technologies (AAT), which is a part of the German livestock breeding group EW Group.
On the launch of the technology, AAT Founder and CEO Jörg Hurlin stated: "The launch of Cheggy in two U.S. hatcheries marks a giant step forward for non-invasive in-ovo sex determination technology. This is more than just a technical innovation—it's a transformative approach that aligns with the growing demand for welfare and sustainable practices in the poultry industry.”
Currently, in-ovo sexing technology is not used by the U.S. egg industry. However, U.S. companies are starting to commit to converting a portion of their egg production to in-oxo sexing.
One is Indiana-based producer Egg Innovations, which committed to adopting the technology in 2025. As of August 2024, Egg Innovations had not announced which technology it would be implementing, however, it is anticipating the initiative will drive interest in in-ovo sexing in the U.S. egg industry.
Will US consumers purchase eggs produced through in-ovo sexing?
Most U.S. egg producers are questioning if the industry is ready to implement in-ovo sexing technology and if there is a market for it. It is difficult to determine if consumers will purchase eggs produced through in-ovo sexing, which will likely be more expensive than conventional eggs, when available.
In the U.S., almost all major retail and food service outlets have pledged to source a portion of their eggs, if not 100%, from cage-free hens by a specific date. Additionally, 10 states have cage-free mandates in effect, or going into effect. However, in the grocery store, most consumers are still purchasing conventional eggs over cage-free eggs with a price premium when given a choice.
