Kipster, a prominent egg producer, has recently made the groundbreaking decision to implement in-ovo sexing technology in its operations in the US. This innovative approach aims to put an end to the practice of culling male chicks, ultimately enhancing animal welfare and reducing waste in the egg industry.
The introduction of in-ovo sexing technology will enable Kipster to determine the sex of chick embryos during incubation, effectively preventing the hatching of male chicks. This marks a significant departure from the current practice in the US egg industry, which sees over 300 million male chicks being culled annually. By embracing this cutting-edge technology, Kipster is committed to leveraging all animals born into its farm system, including raising roosters for animal protein.
Ruud Zanders, co-founder of Kipster, emphasized the importance of this technological advancement in addressing ethical concerns within the egg industry. He stated, “In-ovo sexing is a crucial step forward that will allow us to eliminate chick culling right away. This technology provides an immediate and effective solution as we continue to explore sustainable meat production that meets our high welfare standards.”
Despite facing challenges due to the lack of infrastructure and market demand for rooster meat in the US, Kipster remains resolute in its commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. The adoption of in-ovo sexing technology represents a pivotal solution for the company as it continues to uphold its foundational principles.
Kipster has been at the forefront of climate-neutral egg production since its inception in the Netherlands in 2017. Its entry into the US market in 2022 led to a notable presence in 28 states, with its eggs available at major retailers such as Kroger. The company has extended an invitation to stakeholders and the public to contribute to discussions about this transformative change, encouraging input and ideas to further align with its ethical and environmental standards.
The implementation of in-ovo sexing technology has garnered recognition from industry experts, with Robert Yaman, CEO of Innovate Animal Ag, commending Kipster for its leadership and innovation. He noted, “The introduction of in-ovo sexing technology will allow specialty egg producers to create a new value-added category of more ethical eggs that will be massively successful in the market.”
This strategic move by Kipster reflects a pivotal shift in the egg industry, signifying a concerted effort to modernize practices and restore consumer trust in animal agriculture. With the adoption of in-ovo sexing technology, Kipster is poised to set a new standard for ethical and sustainable egg production in the US.