Breeding resilient layers for the future: H&N’s vision at VIV Europe 2026

This balanced breeding philosophy combines production performance with feed efficiency, welfare, robustness, and adaptability. H&N evaluates birds under different environmental and management conditions to develop genetics capable of performing consistently around the world.

A key focus is preparing hens for longer production cycles. According to Cavero, the industry is increasingly moving toward flocks that remain productive beyond 100 weeks, making traits such as bone strength, feather cover, immunity, and resilience more important than ever.

H&N is also shifting its attention from traditional welfare indicators toward resilience. “We want birds that can face challenges and either maintain performance or recover quickly,” Cavero said.

Looking ahead, he believes artificial intelligence and big data will drive the next major leap in poultry breeding. The growing use of sensors, cameras, and automated monitoring systems will allow breeders to better understand bird behavior, robustness, and welfare, creating opportunities to develop even more resilient flocks.

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Proven performance in the field

While breeding programs define the future, commercial performance remains the ultimate test.

According to Hans Groot, whose company Pluriton supplies H&N genetics across multiple international markets, producers continue to choose H&N birds because of their consistency and reliability.

“H&N is a very predictable breed. You can count on it,” said Groot.

Groot also highlighted strong feathering, low mortality, feed efficiency, and ease of management among the characteristics most valued by customers. He also emphasized the flexibility of the H&N portfolio, which allows producers to select genetics suited to different production systems and market requirements, whether the goal is maximizing egg numbers, egg mass, or serving specialized egg markets.

For producers facing changing regulations, evolving consumer preferences, and increasing welfare expectations, predictability has become a critical advantage.

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Genetics and field experience shaping the future together

Although Cavero and Groot approach the industry from different perspectives, their message is remarkably aligned. Future layers must do more than produce eggs efficiently—they must remain productive for longer, adapt to different production systems, and perform consistently under a wide range of conditions.

By combining advanced breeding technologies with proven commercial performance, H&N is positioning itself to help producers meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving egg industry while maintaining the balance between productivity, welfare, and profitability.