Thanks to advanced technologies like MRI and Artificial Intelligence (AI), it is now possible to determine the sex of hatching eggs (in-ovo) without damaging the egg. Since May 2024, Pluriton has been using the Genus Focus, an in-ovo method that determines the sex of hatching eggs efficiently and accurately using an MRI scanner.
MRI as a technique for sex determination is relatively new, and combined with AI, the system works extremely fast and is self-learning. This means that the technique can perform sex determinations faster and more accurately over time. The method allows eggs to be scanned before the 13th incubation day, whether they are white or brown eggs, or from young or older parent stock. Thanks to its high capacity, Pluriton can set up flocks of up to 250,000 chicks for rearing farms within one week. The video below provides a detailed explanation of how the Genus Focus works for in-ovo sex determination.
A good start through personal guidance and in-ovo vaccination
Thanks to Genus Focus technology, sex determination can take place without damaging the egg, which allows in-ovo vaccination to remain possible. This offers significant advantages: chicks can already be vaccinated in the egg, ensuring they are protected right after hatching, and vaccination on the first day can be skipped. A strong start with minimal stress for the chick aligns with Pluriton’s philosophy, which focuses on animal welfare and sustainable quality for healthy, vital poultry farming. The commitment to ‘their’ laying hens is strong. Through barn visits and personal guidance, advisors like Ed Obbink help poultry farmers start a new flock. As Ed says: “If the start is good, the rest usually goes well.” Read more about his practical tips for starting a new flock.
Why sex determination with MRI and AI?
Hans Groot Koerkamp, Managing Director, explains: “For us, it is crucial that the technology for sex determination is non-invasive. This was one of the main reasons we chose the Genus Focus. Additionally, this machine works for both white and brown eggs and is scalable. We started with two or three machines and now operate five, but with the same number of employees. Whether we use two or five machines, the labor requirements remain almost the same.”
Corné Verwijs, Operational Manager Hatcheries, adds that the technology provides important predictability: “We know exactly how many eggs go in and how many female eggs come out. This predictability is essential to deliver what our customers need.” He also highlights the automation power of the machine: “Compared to other systems, the Genus Focus offers a significant degree of automation. Every egg goes through the chain, and within one second, we know what’s inside – without human intervention. With just a few people, you can achieve a lot. This makes the Genus Focus a much more cost-efficient method than other systems.”
Flexibility in numbers and delivery times
The Genus Focus offers an innovative, non-invasive method for in-ovo sex determination with MRI and AI. This ensures that the eggs remain undamaged and allows in-ovo vaccination. Thanks to years of experience and expertise, Pluriton has developed an optimal incubation process. With five Genus Focus machines and a large parent stock, the company can flexibly respond to demand, both in terms of quantity and delivery times. Poultry farmers can rely on well-organized transport, as well as care, attention, and knowledge sharing when starting a new flock. This is where the company’s unique strength lies.
"We know exactly how many eggs go in and how many female eggs come out. This predictability is essential to deliver what our customers need."