Hy-Line International is a world leader in poultry genetics and layer breeding, headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa, United States. As the oldest and most respected commercial layer breeding company globally, Hy-Line combines decades of scientific research with cutting-edge genomic technologies to produce high-performance egg-laying hens for the global poultry industry.
Core Business and Genetic Portfolio
Hy-Line specializes in the development, production, and global distribution of elite laying hen genetics, delivering breeds known for their egg production efficiency, disease resistance, and adaptability across climates and management systems.
-
Hy-Line W-36:
- High-efficiency white egg layer
- Produces over 500 eggs by 100 weeks of age
- Recognized for low feed intake, high livability, and superior shell quality
-
Hy-Line Brown:
- Globally favored brown egg layer
- Offers exceptional egg color, persistency, and adaptability
- Proven performance in cage-free and free-range systems
-
Hy-Line Silver Brown:
- Combines robustness with high egg output
- Performs well in variable environments and alternative production systems
-
Hy-Line Sonia:
- Tinted egg producer with high feed-to-egg conversion
- Ideal for niche markets and specialty production
These genetic lines are the result of decades of selective breeding using both traditional methods and advanced genomic selection.
Research and Innovation
- R&D Investment: Hy-Line dedicates a significant portion of its revenue to genetics research and performance improvement.
- Genomic Selection: Implements advanced molecular tools to improve genetic gain and select traits such as shell strength, livability, and productivity.
- Biosecurity and Animal Welfare: State-of-the-art facilities and biosecure farms maintain high health standards and ethical breeding practices.
Global Reach and Distribution
- Global Market Leader: Hy-Line genetics are distributed in more than 120 countries.
- Annual Distribution: Over 300 million commercial layer chicks supplied globally.
- International Joint Ventures and Distributors: Operates through regional hatcheries, genetic partners, and subsidiaries to ensure regional adaptability.
Production and Breeding Infrastructure
- Breeding Farms and R&D Centers: Located across North America, Europe, and South America
- Parent Stock Operations: In major poultry-producing regions to provide localized genetic solutions
- Performance Testing Centers: In varied global locations for real-world adaptability testing under different climate, feed, and housing conditions
Customer Segments
Hy-Line serves a broad spectrum of the egg production industry, including:
- Integrated egg producers
- Commercial layer farms (cage, cage-free, organic)
- Hatcheries and genetic multiplication partners
- Agri-business consultants and feed companies
Competitive Advantage
- Genetic Consistency: Uniform flocks with predictable production curves
- High Efficiency: Breeds that require less feed per dozen eggs
- Adaptability: Genetic lines designed for both intensive and alternative housing systems
- Technical Support: Global team of specialists assisting customers with management, nutrition, and health optimization
Quality Assurance and Compliance
- NPIP Certified (National Poultry Improvement Plan – U.S.)
- Operates under rigorous biosecurity and disease-monitoring protocols
- Complies with global animal welfare standards and sustainability guidelines
Educational and Technical Support
Hy-Line provides its global partners with:
- Detailed Management Guides for each genetic line
- Online Technical Resources, webinars, and regional seminars
- On-farm Consultancy Services through its technical service team
Sustainability and Animal Welfare
- Committed to improving sustainability in egg production through genetic improvement
- Focus on extending laying cycles, thereby reducing the environmental impact per egg
- Selects for natural robustness to minimize medication use and enhance flock welfare
Industry Recognition
- Regarded as the top white-egg layer genetic supplier globally
- Hy-Line W-36 is one of the most widely used commercial egg layers in the world
- Trusted brand among multinational egg producers and integrated agri-food companies
With a legacy of innovation, global collaboration, and scientific excellence, Hy-Line International remains a pivotal force in shaping the future of sustainable and efficient egg production across the globe.