Cobb and Hendrix extend R&D partnership

November 12, 2012 – Two of the world’s largest animal breeding companies aim to achieve further breakthroughs in the field of genomics during the next three years through an extension of a joint development agreement (JDA).

Cobb-Vantress Inc. and Hendrix Genetics B.V. initially set up the JDA in 2008 to share and promote expertise, particularly in the fast-growing field of genomics. Already new genomic selection tools have been discovered and developed, such as the cutting-edge SNP Chip for chickens. This is a glass slide that can analyze between 60,000 and one million variations in DNA sequences, – or Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) –  which act as biological markers and help scientists locate a range of genes associated with disease.

The extended agreement will intensify efforts to develop new tools and discover fresh insights into animal genomics in order to improve breeding programs and help increase world food production.

The collaboration is the biggest within the animal breeding industry and the companies say it will produce animals that are more productive, less susceptible to disease and at reduced cost, therefore helping to tackle global food shortages.

The JDA will also strengthen Cobb’s leading position in broiler breeding and Hendrix Genetics’ renowned role in layer hen, turkey, pig and aquaculture genetics, while enabling the two companies to further explore joint venture business opportunities.

Cobb-Vantress supplies broiler breeding stock and technical expertise for the chicken meat industry in more than 90 countries.
Hendrix Genetics has nearly 2,500 employees worldwide and operations in 24 countries and provides expertise and resources to producers in more than 100 countries.