The purpose of the seminar was to focus on the principles behind successful broiler management and update Aviagen Italia’s customers with the latest technical information.

The seminar began with Nick French, Aviagen Incubation Specialist, discussing the new SPIDES project. SPIDES stands for Short Periods of Incubation during Egg Storage, a technique for improving the hatchability of long-stored eggs. This was followed by a presentation from Nutrition Specialist Leonardo Linares on the optimum level of calcium/phosphorous in the broiler diets, based on recent internal trials. The final speaker was Jim McAdam, Aviagen UK Breeding Programme Director, who gave a revealing insight into genetic potential and future performance.

Aviagen Italia General Manager Claudio Ambrogio said: “We had fantastic presentations from excellent speakers, which was reflected in the high number of delegates that attended. We were grateful that the speakers could present their expert views and we are delighted to be able to maintain our relationship with customers by providing informative and worthwhile seminars such as this.”

Nick French added: “The seminar gave us all an excellent opportunity to address some key areas in broiler management and we were delighted that such a high number attended.”

Comments by attendees reflected their positive feed-back: “The standard of presentations was exceptional and this seminar provided those that attended with an opportunity to gain an important insight in to a number of key areas within the broiler industry.”

“We really enjoyed the chance to mix with the Italian poultry industry - nutritionists, veterinarians and field personnel”.

“The new SPIDES technique sounds really interesting in terms of improved hatchability of eggs with long storage times”.

“We gained valuable insights into the way to measure the chick’s temperature and its effect on a day-old chick’s well-being and development.”

“The presentation on selection and tools used to evaluate the bird’s characteristics with a specific focus on feed management and welfare was really interesting.”

“I really enjoyed the social aspects of the event and the opportunity to sample some of the delicious food of the Romagna region and the chance to ‘talk poultry’ in a relaxed environment.”