Farm Animals

Poultry Welfare: Chick Sexing Technology

In-ovo sexing technology eliminates the killing of male chicks at day of hatch, representing a transformative welfare advance for the egg industry.

Key Facts

Approximately 7 billion male layer chicks are killed globally each year at day of hatch
In-ovo sexing identifies male eggs before hatching using spectroscopy or hormonal analysis
Germany and France have mandated in-ovo sexing, with other countries following
Male eggs identified early can be redirected to alternative uses including animal feed

Welfare Considerations

The elimination of male chick killing through in-ovo sexing is one of the most significant achievable welfare advances in the egg industry. The technology is commercially mature, economically viable, and increasingly mandated. Its global adoption would prevent the killing of billions of day-old chicks annually.

What You Can Do

Support egg brands committed to in-ovo sexing technology adoption
Advocate for legislative mandates for in-ovo sexing in countries where it is not yet required
Engage with retailers about their commitments to sourcing eggs from in-ovo sexed flocks