Aviagen^® SweChick recently sponsored the agri benchmark global forum in Seinäjoki, Finland. Agri benchmark is a network of Thünen Institute in Germany. This year the event, organized by Atria, a valued SweChick customer, brought together 250 poultry, pig, beef and sheep researchers and industry representatives from 24 countries. The forum was opened by Finland’s minister of agriculture Sari Essayah.

Magnus Swalander, Global Vice President of Products, Aviagen, and Managing Director of Aviagen SweChick, shared his expertise and participated in a panel discussion. Sustainability was a key theme, and Magnus highlighted the role of the primary breeder in promoting bird health, welfare and sustainability through balanced genetic selection and innovation.

Highlights of his presentation

• Focus on welfare and sustainability. Of our over 40 selection characteristics, 61% are related to welfare and sustainability, and only 39% focus on broiler and breeder performance.
• Reducing carbon footprint. A continued sustainability focus has led to a 1% year-on-year reduction in the industry's carbon footprint.
• Ongoing welfare progress. Genetic advancements, innovative monitoring systems, and management expertise have delivered continuous improvements in bird welfare. Field data underscores this progress, for example in leg health.
• Breeding choice. Aviagen works closely with industry allies to stay informed on evolving trends, ensuring our customers can provide the right bird for the right market. We currently offer a range of options, including the Ross^® 308 and slower-growing birds such as Rustic Gold, Ranger Classic, and Ranger Gold.

Aviagen is committed to investing in new technology and facilities to meet our mission of continually broadening our selection goals, prioritizing animal health, welfare, and sustainability.