Cobb opens new hatchery in China

Broiler genetics company Cobb has opened a new state-of-the-art parent stock production complex in Hubei province, west of Shanghai, as it seeks to expand its presence in the Chinese market.

The first grandparent stock have already been placed  at the farm and hatchery facilities, marking an important step on the way to Cobb meeting an initial target of supplying five million Cobb 500 parents a year.

See also: Cobb and Hendrix extend poultry development partnership

In designing and constructing the complex, which has cost the company USD35m, top priority has been given to biosecurity. For example, all staff and visitors are required to take three showers before coming into contact with the birds.

Dave Juenger, Cobb project director, described the new facility as a “game changer” in the Chinese market. “We have high expectations of consistently achieving top quality for our customers, and we are committed to producing mycoplasma-free breeding stock right from day one.”

Pelayo Casanovas, Cobb general manager for the Asia-Pacific region, said the goal was to add value to the company’s products, while helping to improve the Chinese broiler industry.

“Our technical services teams will give our customers expert advice covering all aspects from house preparation, breeder and broiler management to meat yield so they can maximise the genetic potential that Cobb birds provide.”