Hendrix's Nebraska Hatchery Processes First In-Ovo Sexed Chicks for Kipster
Milestone marks major step forward for Respeggt technology and US egg industry
Respeggt’s In-Ovo Sexing Circuit, Courtesy of Respeggt
A new era for the US egg industry continues to hatch as Hendrix Genetics’ Nebraska facility processes its first flock of in-ovo sexed chicks using Respeggt’s in-ovo sexing technology. The flock is destined for Kipster, the second egg producer in the US to publicly utilize the technology.
The Respeggt in-ovo sexing machine at Hendrix’s facility is the first system installed in the US capable of sexing both white and brown layer breeds. This capability is important for the US market, where both egg types have substantial market share.
This announcement follows a slate of recent developments in the US market that underscore the growing momentum of in-ovo sexing technology. Last year, two of Agri Advanced Technology’s Cheggy machines entered the market at Hyline hatcheries, facilitating the first ever hatch of in-ovo sexed chicks on US soil. More recently, Walmart included in-ovo sexing as a focus area in its producer guidelines and the United Egg Producers launched their in-ovo sexing certification.
Robert Yaman, the CEO of Innovate Animal Ag reflected on the importance of this milestone for Kipster and the US egg industry. “Cost-effective technological solutions to major challenges like chick culling are critical to modernizing the US egg supply chain and rebuilding consumer trust in animal agriculture,” Yaman said. “We applaud Kipster for continuing to demonstrate their leadership in the egg industry by being one of the first producers to use this technology in the US.”
Known for its forward-thinking practices, Kipster produces the nation's first certified climate-neutral eggs at its North Manchester, Indiana farm. This new initiative, in partnership with Hendrix and Respeggt, aligns with growing consumer demand for more ethical and sustainable food production. Consumers eager to support this innovation can expect to find Kipster eggs from the in-ovo sexed flock at Kroger and affiliated stores across 28 states starting early 2026, following the chicks’ maturation into laying hens.
For more detailed information on in-ovo sexing technologies and their impact on the poultry industry, visit our In-Ovo Sexing Overview.
