We are the voice of the
European live poultry and hatching egg sector
Who we are
ELPHA represents the entire poultry production chain across the EU, from primary breeding and hatching to the trade of hatching eggs and day-old poultry.
ELPHA advocates for its members' interests by actively engaging with EU institutions, national governments, and international bodies. We work to ensure that EU policies support a competitive, thriving, and sustainable European Poultry sector that contributes significantly to Europe’s food security and economy.
Covering the chain from Breed to Meat
Covering the chain from Breed to Egg
Mission
At ELPHA, our mission is to safeguard the interests of the live poultry and hatching egg sector within the EU. We are committed to promoting animal welfare and biosecurity, advancing sustainable practices and fostering innovation.
Our members operate under the highest standards and best practices, ensuring excellence in production. By serving our breeding companies and exporters, we make genetics and breeders available and affordable worldwide, contributing to global food security. Working closely with our members and policymakers, we strive to ensure the sector remains competitive in a rapidly changing regulatory environment, continuing as a key contributor to Europe’s food security and economy.
Policy Priorities
Animal Health & Welfare
At ELPHA, the health and welfare of the birds and hatching eggs produced by our members are paramount. We are committed to ensuring their well-being and care throughout every stage of the production process.
Food Safety & Quality
ELPHA prioritises the highest standards of food safety and quality in the production of birds and hatching eggs.
Our dedication guarantees that our sector’s products are safe, nutritious, and reliable for consumers.
Trade
As key players in global food security, ELPHA’s members supply high-quality day-old chicks and hatching eggs worldwide. We advocate for open and fair trade practices and collaborate closely with transporters—by air, road, and sea—to ensure our products are delivered to the highest standards.
Sustainability
ELPHA is dedicated to enhancing sustainability within the production process. By focusing on the selection of high-performing birds, our members actively contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of the poultry sector and promoting climate-friendly production practices.
Members
ELPHA's membership consists of national associations representing the live poultry and hatching egg sector across the EU as well as individual companies, particularly in countries where no such associations exist. Additionally, the European Poultry Breeder Association (EPB) is a key member, with its breeding companies making up 40% of ELPHA’s total membership.
ELPHA in numbers
85%
of the EU 27 poultry production chain represented through ELPHA
+250
(estimated) hatcheries
377 M
laying
hens
7 B
broilers
€779 M
exports to
non-EU countries