The computer-controlled machine, which involved a total investment of around £30,000, (US$50,000) streamlines the packaging procedure, improving output and efficiency. Rolls of empty flat-packs are fed along a line by a ratchet system. They are automatically filled with a pre-determined amount of diluted semen, the ends sealed and labels giving semen details are applied before the packs are cut from the roll then despatched all over the Britain.

"With an estimated 80 per cent of services on British pig farms now being carried out by AI, efficient processing of semen is a vital part of ensuring producers have safe access to up-to-date genetic material," commented Roger Abbott, JSR Genetics' AI production manager.

With 450 boar places at six centres around the country, JSR Genetics is the largest supplier of AI in the UK. Semen is supplied in either flat-packs or tubes according to producer preference.

Earlier this year JSR Genetics introduced its 'Cool Chain' AI distribution system to help maintain semen in peak condition right through to point-of- service on the farm.

Source: JSR Genetics - 5th January 2004