VIV Europe 2026 Preview · Genetics and incubation
If there is one link in the chain where innovation at VIV Europe 2026 makes an immediate impact, it is the one that takes us from the fertile egg to the day-old chick.
In ovo sexing: the embryo, classified before hatching
The elimination of male chick culling is no longer just a promise. Vencomatic Group presents Genus Focus, an in ovo sexing technology that, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and artificial intelligence analysis, classifies eggs on day 12 of incubation — or earlier — as female, male or infertile, in a completely non-contact manner. Working in the same direction is Agri Advanced Technologies (AAT), a subsidiary of EW Group, specialising in in ovo sex determination machines for laying hens.
“In ovo sexing has already moved from the experimental to the commercial level:
an embryo can be classified as female, male or infertile as early as day 12.”
Genetics: two anniversaries setting the pace
Selection continues to be the silent driving force of the sector. Aviagen celebrates the 70th anniversary of Ross and Cobb the 40th anniversary of the Cobb500, whose improvement programme today relies on its Proving Grounds, where data science and field validation accelerate genetic progress. In laying hens, Hendrix Genetics (ISA, Bovans, Dekalb, Hisex) and Novogen bring their lines focused on robustness and efficiency to Utrecht.
Precision incubation
The incubator is also becoming smarter. Petersime launches the UniStreamer, its new generation of single-stage incubators designed to deliver predictable results, complete traceability and maximum chick uniformity. Royal Pas Reform will also exhibit its latest innovations, and others such as Victoria, a manufacturer since 1924, are committed to the versatility and flexibility of their machines.
The hatchery, automated to unprecedented levels
Biosecurity extends down to the finest detail. Innovatec combines its CLEANchick live embryo detection with the Exploder Removal System, a high-vacuum system that immediately isolates and aspirates non-viable eggs, preventing them from exploding and contaminating the incubator.
Note: this article is just a small sample of everything that will be on display with relevance to the poultry sector at the fair, with 400 exhibitors at VIV EUROPE 2026 and a further 200 at the co-located feed manufacturing equipment show, VICTAM — thousands of products and solutions will be on view from 2 to 4 June. For further information, we recommend consulting the official exhibitor catalogue, which lists all companies and their stand numbers.
For more information on the full event programme, the exhibitor list, and to pre-register and obtain free accreditation for VIV Europe 2026, visit the official show website at: europe.viv.net
For more information:
-. Show VIV EUROPE 2026
-. International events calendar: https://NeXusAvicultura.com/Calendario/
