Grading in poultry breeding is the process sorting birds into categories based on their body weights. Grading is the process of sorting individual birds into categories based on bodyweight (super light, light, average, heavy) so that birds within respective categories can be managed back to standard. Grading is the process of shorting of all individual birds in a flock (both Male & Female separately) into 3 sub-populations based on body weights (physiological state) so that each group can be managed back to the standard to have perfect uniformity in the whole flock at the point of Lay (POL). A uniform flock is easier to manage than a variable one; birds in similar physiological stale will respond more similarly to managemental factors.

Background of Grading
There is always a natural variation in a flock, even at day old. At placement, the chick body weight in a flock should have minimum variation. As chicks grow, the variation in the flock increases further due to difference of response of individual birds to factors like vaccination, disease, differing competitiveness of feed, etc. The increased variation reduces overall flock performance and makes the flock management much more difficult.

Understanding the Principles of Grading
Grading is a systematic process that adheres to well-defined principles. It’s a great way to improve the uniformity of a flock!

With grading, the flock is separated, and groups of smaller and bigger birds are formed to improve the total flock uniformity. The grading principles serve as guidelines to ensure consistency, and fairness while classifying birds. The primary principles of grading are the following:

1. Objectivity: Grading should be based on measurable and observable characteristics, minimizing subjective judgments.
2. Traceability: Detailed records should be maintained to track the grading process and facilitate future analysis.
3. Continuous Improvement: Grading practices should be regularly reviewed and updated to incorporate advancements in breeding management.

Purpose
Grading improves uniformity in a flock by separating birds into groups based on their weight so that they can be managed back to the standard.

Benefits
A uniform flock is easier to manage because birds in similar physiological states respond similarly to management.

When to grade
Grading is usually done when the flock is 7–14 days old, and then again at 4, 8, and 12 weeks of age. It’s recommended to grade as soon as possible so that the birds can recover from growth retardation.

How to grade
To grade, you can:
1. Weigh a minimum of 2% of the flock to calculate the average weight and variation in body weight.
• Measure the variation in body weight using the coefficient of variation (CV%) or uniformity (%).
• Separate the birds into categories based on their weight.
• Manage each group to bring them back to the standard weight.

Grading Procedure
Depending on the uniformity 3 to 4 sub-populations may be made; Heavy, Medium, Light & Super light (if necessary). Some breeder houses have fixed pen or partitions and some houses has adjustable partitions; in both cases at least one pen shall be left empty during chick placement for Grading operation. It is better to have adjustable Partition and divide the whole house in 4 parts for Female & 4 parts for Male; with 2 parts each for medium size group (usually over 65% of total population), One part each for Heavy & Light Weight group for both Male & Female. Arrange Brooding in one part each for Male & female separately. Start grading on 8th day itself and shift them in different pen, keepingthe lighter group at the entry side. With advancing age & body weight, arrange 100% grading at the end of 4, 8 & 12 weeks and give floor space accordingly in the respective pen. In case of fixed pen, calculate the floor space, no of feeder & drinker as per maximum no of birds to place after grading. Similarly, in case of adjustable pen adjust the size as per no of birds to be housed along with sufficient no of feeder & drinkers. If stocking density in a pen is not adjusted with floor space, feeder & drinker space, then grading will cause more problem.

Variation in a flock can be measured by 2 different ways:
1. Coefficient of Variation (CV%) – this measured the variations of body weight within the flock, the flock with lower CV’s is a less variable flock.
2. Uniformity% – this measures the evenness of body weights within a flock, the higher the uniformity the less variable the flock is.

Key Issues during Grading:
• Start Grading of Male & Female simultaneously @ 2nd Week or 29th day.
• A successful Grading should minimize the variability in graded flock than the original flock with the CV% shall be around 8 and Uniformity above 80%.
• Each sub-population should be re-weighted & counted to confirm the Av Body Wt and CV%/ Uniformity so that projected (re-scheduled) target body weights & Feeding rates can be determined.
• Inaccurate bird counting will lead to incorrect quantity of Feed, which invite future problem
• Each sup-population should have own dedicated feeding system. Otherwise, supplementary feeding must allow even distribution of feed & adequate feeding space per bird.
• Ensure the stocking density, feeding & drinking space are consistent as per guidelines after grading; specially for the adjustable size pen.

Flock Management after Grading:
• Following grading, the flock need to be managed to achieve targeted body weight in graded group in uniform & coordinated manner. Post grading management to maintain uniformity within graded pen is more important than the grading itself. The most important issue is the post grading management results in the birds converging to a common target body weight at Transfer to laying house.
• Post Grading Feed Quantity should be adjusted to individual pen and graded birds body weights to bring each sub-population gradually back to the target line.

Challenges for Grading
• Grading is often seen as a herculean task. Add to that the misconception that it involves too much work for a very little return, and there are numerous reasons why farm owners do not want to grade their flock.
• Increased costs due to more labor.
• Stressful for birds to move between the pens.
• Feeder & drinker configurations. Managing feed times.

Take Home Message
• Feed level must be recalculated on a weekly basis calculating for changes in liveability.
• Feed recalculation twice a week gives excellent results specially for Light weight group where higher increase level is required.
• Feed calculation based on individual pen birds Av Body Wt & bird numbers
• Feed level should never be reduced
• Feed level for Light Wt group should remain same first week post grading owing to the fact that reduced competition from heavier birds will give a good amount extra feed to all birds.
• Smaller for Heavy Wt Bird group
• Greater for Lighter Wt Bird group
• Standard for Medium Wt bird group
Never hold feed increment for any group for more than 2 weeks

Post Grading: Continuous Improvement
Flock grading is an ongoing process that requires regular review and refinement. Post-grading activities are essential for continuous improvement and sustained breeding success.

By mastering flock grading and adhering to best practices, poultry breeders can achieve optimal flock management, genetic progress, and long-term profitability in their breeding operations.

With the expansion of the poultry industry, farm owners have looked further in detail about ways to improve the hatching eggs and chick output. With increased research, what we know is that one certain way of increasing the overall performance is by maintaining flock uniformity.

A well-graded flock is bound to be more predictable, easier to manage, and more profitable. Combine this with the extensive features that seasoned poultry management software offers, and farm owners will start managing a flock with much greater production potential.

The SPACE Expo in Rennes, France, a leading platform for innovation and excellence in Poultry, Aqua, Dairy & Livestock farming, with more than 1,400 exhibitors from different countries shared their expertise and innovations focusing on energy conservation & production, the poultry, cattle, the pig sectors and animal nutrition. More than 1,15,000 French and International visitors from over 122 countries visited this important poultry and livestock exhibition over the three days. The business visitors were happy and satisfied as they find new partners and discover innovations, with the aim of contributing to food self-sufficiency in their home countries.

Each edition of SPACE Rennes covers the full spectrum of products and services, from veterinary equipment, feeding stuff and animal breeding. Additional value derives from the educational program. SPACE 2024 developed the political dimension of discussions with livestock sector stakeholders. These visits reinforce SPACE as a platform of expression and discussion to advance the major issues regarding the future of the livestock sectors.

Mr. Marcel DENIEUL, President of SPACE said said SPACE is here to give its exhibitors the chance to present their products and solutions to its visitors and visitors will therefore be able to discover new products and existing solutions, compare the various options available, get advice from experts to help them to make the right choices and plan their investments with all the information they need at their fingertips.

Mr. Ricky Thaper with Mr. Marcel DENIEUL, President of SPACE
SPACE served as an observatory for international agricultural policy and provided its participants with solutions and ideas to help them achieve their goals, thanks to its technical expertise, innovations and conferences.

At Biochem booth had good interaction with Dr. Sana Makhlouf. Biochem Company headquarter is located in the northwest German town of Lohne, supplying high quality feed additives for poultry and livestock. As a global company, Biochem feed additives are characterised by efficiency, quality and sustainability. From intestinal health, mycotoxin management, feed safety and nutrient efficiency to immune stimulation Biochem offer solutions to animal nutrition and animal health. Dr. Sana Makhlouf told that more than 200 employees dedicate their knowledge and skills in development, production, registration, marketing, logistics, and sales departments. Biochem operate globally with more than 50 retail partners and 16 subsidiaries on four continents. With more than 360 experienced employees from 30 nations, Biochem team in constant contact with farmers, the feed industry, universities and veterinarians. Dr. Bhaskar Choudhry is heading the Biochem business in India which has good growth in terms of volumes and sales under Dr. Bhaskar leadership.

According to Ms. Ane Marie QUEMENER, General Commissioner of SPACE, in 38 years, SPACE has become an essential event for all. Created by the leaders of the agricultural organizations, it is designed to be a place to meet debate and exchange ideas, for all farming related professionals. Ms. Ane Marie QUEMENER added that the efforts and hard work by SPACE Team has given excellent results.

At SKA Poultry Equipment booth, we had good interaction with Mr. Massimo Ubiali, CEO.
Mr. Ubiali is a dynamic leader with a strong commitment to helping customers adopt sustainable solutions for the industry through high-quality equipment. Mr. Ubiali said he has a clear vision to expand SKA’s business across the region and elevate the company to new heights, all while staying true to its core principles and values. Mr. Ubiali firmly believes in empowering individuals to embrace entrepreneurship within themselves. He updated that India is a very potential market for them and their company look forward to fostering partnerships and continuing the exchange of ideas for the advancement of poultry welfare and Sustainability in the region. Recently Mr. Rajendra Rawat has joined SKA Poultry Equipment, Italy for South Asia Region. Mr. Massimo extended invitation to Indian Delegation to visit their manufacturing facilities in Italy.

At AB Vista booth with Mr. Fernando Garcilopez Perez, Business Manager.
AB Vista is a global animal nutrition technology company offering pioneering products and technical services to the global animal feed industry. Its mission is to advance nutrition through scientific research and ‘feed intelligence’. AB Vista has grown to be a top three player in feed enzymes, specialising in innovative feed additives, solutions, and services for all species. In India, Mr. Atmaram Yadav, General Manager, South Asia is heading AB Vista business very perfectly and efficiently.

Ms. Cecile BERTHIER, International Press and Exhibitors Information, SPACE informed that Poultry, Dairy and Aqua farmers working in all types of animal production were able to enjoy the Expo.

The top buyers program run by the Business France as a part of the “Export Begins in France” project had welcomed major International Delegates from China, Senegal, Togo, Egypt, Iran, India, Kenya, Angola, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Mexico, South America besides European Union.

A series of conferences, debates and seminars that took place during the three days gave this year event a new dimension, as poultry and livestock farmers were able to express the needs and expectations, in line with the ambition of the creators of SPACE. Innov’Space label has been a great opportunity to publicise and promote novelties in the sector. This year 48 products, equipment or services earned the esteemed Innov’Space awards.

It was nice to meet and interact with Dr. Nemanja Todorovic, Chief Business officer, nu.ance Biotechnology and Ms. Solene Gillingham, Marketing and Commercial Officer at their booth. nu.ance Biotechnology is a dynamic Swiss-based biotechnology company, founded by the group of entrepreneurs, specialized in development and commercialization of innovative feed additive products, merging expertise in technical and scientific knowledge. At nu.ance Biotechnology we are committed to providing high quality feed additive solutions said Dr. Nemanja Todorovic, Chief Business officer. With the recent acquisition of Global Nutrition International, has added a French manufacturer of technological liquid and solid feed additives to our portfolio. This strategic move significantly contributes to increasing range of additives developed at the highest standards of quality and effectiveness to meet our customer needs. Mr. Joginder Singh Uppal, Business Director based in India, is efficiently leading the nu.ance Biotechnology business in the South Asia region.

During SPACE Expo, it was nice to interact with Mr. Nipun Gupta, CEO, Dr. Paolo Doncecchi, CCo and Mr. Patel Kotula from Innova Biotechnology, Poland, focusing on production and marketing of innovative non-antibiotic products to control bacterial pathogens in environmental, food processing, and medical settings. We shared views on the antimicrobial solutions which are available or being launched based on the phage and anti-microbial peptide technology platforms of Innova Biotechnology and discussed about the future of Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs) that work by targeting the cell membranes of pathogens, making it significantly harder for these pathogens to develop resistance.

While interacting with exhibitors, they rated SPACE as very high-quality trade show. According to Amandine LEROUX, International Development, SPACE, Exhibitors and International Visitors had access to International Club which had all facilities of translators, business meetings and refreshments for the international visitors. The SPACE was again a springboard for employment and international trade thanks to the job-dating events organized by APECITA, and more than 800 Business to Business meetings organized by Enterprise Europe Network between exhibitors and international investors said Ms. Chloe LETELLIER, Communication Press, SPACE. For foreign visitors, visits to poultry, dairy & sheep farms and agro industrial facilities were arranged. These tours were supported by ADEPTA and Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.

An analytical survey so far indicates that 97% of participants think that SPACE Exhibition helps to convey a positive, dynamic image of the animal farming industry. 93% of International Visitors regard SPACE as the standard setting exhibition, offering a comprehensive and unique platform for professionals across all animal production sectors. 91% of poultry, dairy, aqua and livestock farmer’s view SPACE Exhibition as an indispensable decision-making tool, enabling them to compare solutions and make informed choices whereas 88% of Exhibitors express satisfaction with the quality of their business contacts made at SPACE Exhibition.

International delegates visiting SPACE Expo appreciated the arrangements at Expo by the organizers especially at the International Club. The meticulous planning, dedication and tireless efforts of team SPACE Rennes makes SPACE Exhibition one of the biggest Poultry & Livestock Exhibition in this planet.

The veterinary healthcare sector in India is experiencing significant growth, with the market size estimated to be USD 1.25 billion in 2024, projected to reach USD 1.89 billion by 2029, indicating a robust CAGR of 8.63% during the forecast period. This growth is particularly notable in the poultry industry, which has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sectors among livestock species. The poultry sector has evolved into a key supplier of affordable protein sources, driving the development of value chains that cater to consumer demand.

Stallen South Asia: Leading by Change and Setting a Standard
In response to this market dynamic, Stallen South Asia Private Limited has emerged as a key player, offering indigenous solutions and expertise in animal health. By bridging the gap between global standards and local requirements, companies like Stallen are not only contributing to the growth of the poultry industry but also fostering a resilient and sustainable ecosystem for animal health management in the country.

Stallen stands out as a leading name in India’s animal health sector, offering a diverse range of products tailored for poultry and cattle across four distinct divisions. These divisions encompass feed additives, biosecurity solutions, formulations, and vaccines, showcasing Stallen’s comprehensive approach to animal health management.

Stallen’s new Therapeutic Facility

Strategic Collaborations and Industry Partnerships – 25 Years in the Marking
The company’s journey traces back to its inception in 1997. Since inception, Stallen has constantly developed to stay in line with the industry standard – in 2010 Stallen entered a JV with FATRO from Bologna, Italy. This JV enabled Stallen to import and distribute a wide range of killed and live vaccines, further solidifying its position in the market.

Dedicated Storage at the Palghar Facility

Global Reach and Market Presence
Over the 25 years, Stallen has expanded its footprint and capacities. Today, Stallen’s export operations span more than 50 countries across 6 continents serving as a testament to our product quality and service.

In an attempt to completely self suffienct, Stallen has backward integrated and control the end-to-end supply chain. As a result, they currently operate 5 different manufacturing locations in addition to the 2 supply plants of FATRO:
1) Feed Additives Manufacturing Unit in Palghar, Maharashtra
2) Feed Additives Manufacturing Unit in Sajjanpada, Maharashtra
3) Feed Additives and Cattle Feed Premix Manufacturing Unit in Alexandria, Canada
4) Therapeutics/Formulations Manufacturing Unit in Nandore, Maharashtra
5) Halquinol API Manufacturing Unit in Vatva, Gujarat

Focus on Quality and Regulatory Compliance
All of Stallen’s plants are certified and regularly audited by ISO, GMP, and FDA, along with approvals from international regulatory bodies, attestesting to their adherence to rigorous standards in manufacturing and product safety.

1) Feed Additives and Premix Factories in Maharashtra
Stallen South Asia Pvt. Ltd., based in Nandore, Maharashtra, India, specializes in manufacturing a wide range of feed additives and supplements. Their product portfolio includes antibacterial solutions, treatments targeting mycoplasmal infections, deworming agents, performance enhancers, anthelmintics, mineral supplements, toxin-binding formulations, antidiarrheals, growth promoters, anticoccidials, water sanitation products, fly control solutions, and disinfectants. These products are meticulously crafted and made available in various convenient forms such as tablets, boluses, powders, oral liquid solutions.

GMP Standard Manufacturing Layouts

1. Manufacturing Process: The factory has specialized equipment and facilities for the manufacturing process. This includes mixing and blending equipment for creating formulations, granulation machinery for solid products, liquid mixing and filling lines for liquids, and packaging lines for various forms of products.
2. Quality Assurance: Quality control measures are integral to the manufacturing process. Raw materials are tested for purity and quality before use. During production, in-process checks are conducted to ensure consistency and adherence to specifications. Finished products undergo rigorous quality testing for efficacy, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards.
3. Regulatory Compliance: The factory operates in compliance with regulatory requirements set by local and international regulatory bodies, with approvals from China, Iran, Australia and more. This includes adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and documentation of processes to ensure product quality and safety.

2) Formulation Unit in Palghar, Maharashtra, India.
It is a crucial facility for manufacturing pharmaceutical products that range between regular therapeutic drugs as well as beta-lactam formulations.
1. Facilities and Equipment: The formulation unit is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and machinery required for the formulation and production of pharmaceutical products. This includes equipment for mixing, blending, granulation, drying, and packaging. The capacities are built for effervescent tablets, liquid form (oral and topical), oral powder, bolus and ointment.
2. Quality Control: Throughout the formulation process, rigorous quality control measures are implemented to ensure that the final product meets regulatory standards and specifications. This includes testing the raw materials, in-process samples, and the finished product for purity, potency, stability, and safety.
3. Regulatory Compliance: The formulation unit operates in compliance with regulatory requirements set by authorities such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in India. This includes adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), documentation of processes, and regular inspections to ensure quality and safety standards are maintained.

3) “Stallen Unveils Cutting-Edge API Facility for Halquinol Production!”
To maintain its commitment to quality, affordability, and timely delivery, Stallen has commenced the production of Halquinol, a non-antibiotic growth promoter classified under hydroxy-quinolines. This compound comprises 5-chloro-8-hydroxyquinoline, 5,7-Dichloro-8-hydroxyquinoline, and 7-Chloro-8-hydroxyquinoline, with the product Halquinol 98% manufactured in accordance with BP 80 (British Pharmacopeia 1980) specifications. Stallen offers Halquinol 98% as a chemical API for use in veterinary formulations and feed additives, alongside the commonly available 60% and 12% variants. With its adherence to BP specifications and increased monthly production capacity, Stallen is well-equipped to cater to global demand, holding valid registrations for Halquinol in over 15 countries.

Stallen’s strategic vision includes gradually introducing a range of APIs from its Vatva facility, aiming to reduce reliance on imported products from China in the animal health sector. The Vatva plant marks the fifth addition to Stallen’s manufacturing infrastructure, complementing its existing feed additive and veterinary formulation facilities in Palghar, Maharashtra, as well as a feed premix and additive manufacturing unit in Canada. This strategic expansion underscores Stallen’s commitment to self-sufficiency and quality assurance in delivering essential solutions for animal health and nutrition.

Stallen Cutting-Edge API Facility for Halquinol Production!