An egg identification system for determining egg viability is provided. Such a system includes an emitter assembly for emitting electromagnetic radiation toward a plurality of eggs positioned proximate thereto. A detector assembly is positioned proximate to the emitter assembly. The detector assembly has a plurality of detectors fixedly positioned with respect to the emitter assembly and configured to detect electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the eggs. An optical shielding assembly is configured to move with respect to the detectors. A processor is in communication with detector assembly and is configured to determine viability of the eggs using the detected electromagnetic radiation. An associated method is also provided.
