PRECISION EGG HANDLING AND EMBRYO DETECTION DRIVE MODERN HATCHERY PERFORMANCE

In modern hatcheries, egg processing has evolved far beyond a logistical step; it is now a critical control point for hatchery performance and biosecurity. From collection and transport to sorting, analysis and preparation for incubation, each stage directly influences hatchability and chick quality.

Since 1991, Innovatec has contributed to this development by designing integrated egg handling solutions that combine gentle processing with advanced analysis technologies. Automated detection systems allow infertile eggs, shell defects and contamination risks to be identified early and removed through closed-system handling before they affect incubation results.

A strong example is Innovatec’s CLEANchick dual technology – live embryo detection, which represents a major step forward in precise egg analysis within modern hatchery workflows. By combining high-speed, contactless candling with heartbeat detection, the system enables reliable identification of viable embryos while distinguishing clears, late-dead embryos and potential exploders. This early classification improves selection accuracy and supports cleaner incubation conditions.

Following live embryo detection, non-viable eggs and potential exploders are automatically removed using Innovatec’s Exploder Removal System (ERS) and Clear Egg Removal (CER). Removing contaminated eggs at an early stage helps prevent cross-contamination, protects neighbouring embryos and directly contributes to improved hatchability results. The closed removal process also enhances hatchery biosecurity and eliminates unpleasant odours associated with infected eggs and potential “bangers.”

CLEANchick Dual Technology is also available for early candling on day 10, used in pharmaceutical production environments.

Together with its broader portfolio of egg handling, candling, detection and automated removal solutions, Innovatec supports hatcheries in integrating processing, analysis and biosecurity into one connected workflow, helping improve incubation consistency, optimise capacity utilisation and strengthen overall hatchery performance.

For more information, visit www.innovatec.com