Hy-Line leads the way with revolutionary method of beak treatment

Building on its reputation as a pioneer in technological innovation and major investor in the industry, Hy-Line UK has announced the implementation of a groundbreaking new method of beak treatment within its Millennium Hatchery in Studley, Warwickshire. Andrew Hignett, managing director of Hy-Line UK made the announcement on 1st March, at a seminar marking Hy-Line's 10-year anniversary.

Andrew stated, "Hy-Line has been working very closely with the government and other industry bodies in trialling this beak treatment process, which we believe is the most accurate, safe and welfare conscious form of treatment available. Following initial trials, which look favourable, Hy-Line has decided to invest in six state-of-the-art machines. The infrared beak treatment process involves treating the hard keratin of the beak with infrared energy. The tip of the beak that is treated falls away in approximately 21 days without mutilation of any kind. Since improving bird welfare is at the heart of this technological advancement, I would like to urge welfare groups to amend their current standards to allow this treatment to be carried out in the hatchery."

Hy-Line UK was one of the major instigators in persuading the BEIC and the government to conduct these landmark beak treatment trials. Already in use in the US, Australia and many other countries, Hy-Line UK was determined to introduce the cutting-edge, modern equipment to the UK, and installed its first beak treatment machine eighteen months ago in order to evaluate the process.