Technical measures to improve egg shell quality
Eggshell quality is a crucial factor in assessing the productivity of both breeder and layer chickens. It directly affects hatchability, chick quality, egg production, and overall economic returns. As shell quality declines, many poultry farms suffer significant financial losses. To address this issue, several technical strategies can be implemented to enhance eggshell quality.
One of the most important nutritional factors influencing eggshell strength is the proper balance of calcium and phosphorus in the diet. A low calcium content increases the occurrence of thin or soft-shelled eggs, while excessive calcium may reduce feed palatability and negatively impact both eggshell quality and laying performance. Phosphorus plays a key role in maintaining shell elasticity, and its metabolism is closely linked to that of calcium. Imbalances in either nutrient can disrupt calcium absorption, leading to weaker shells. The ideal dietary calcium level for laying hens is between 3.3% and 3.8%, with total phosphorus at around 0.6%. The calcium-to-phosphorus ratio should be maintained between 4:1 and 6:1. Additionally, sufficient protein is essential for optimal calcium absorption, as amino acids from protein can form soluble calcium salts, improving uptake. Therefore, the protein content in the diet should not fall below 16.5%.
Vitamin D is also vital for maintaining strong eggshells. It supports bone calcium metabolism and enhances intestinal phosphorus absorption. A deficiency in vitamin D can impair calcium absorption, leading to reduced egg production and an increase in soft or shell-less eggs. To ensure adequate levels, the diet should contain at least 1500 IU of vitamin D per kilogram of feed.
The pH of the feed also influences eggshell formation. Alkaline components like sodium bicarbonate can improve shell quality. Chloride and sodium levels affect serum phosphorus, which in turn impacts shell integrity. Excess chloride can make the blood more acidic, reducing shell quality, while sodium helps strengthen it. Using chloride-free sodium salts in feed can help maintain a balanced environment. Research has shown that adding 0.1% to 1% sodium bicarbonate to the diet over eight months improved egg production and increased shell strength by 8%.
Stress is another critical factor. Chickens are highly sensitive to environmental disturbances such as loud noises, sudden lights, or bright colors, which can cause them to become frightened. This stress can lead to broken eggs and weakened shells. Studies show that noise above 50 dB increases breakage rates, and exposure to 90 dB for three minutes can result in a 3–5% breakage rate. Therefore, chicken farms should be located in quiet areas away from roads and residential zones.
Lighting also plays a role. Most soft-shell or shell-less eggs are laid before noon, often due to insufficient light during the night. Adding two hours of nighttime lighting can significantly improve shell thickness and reduce breakage. Light intensity should be kept between 5 and 10 lux; too much light can cause discomfort and increase the number of shell-less eggs.
Proper management of laying hens, especially in their later stages, is essential. Ensuring adequate calcium intake during the late afternoon and evening is crucial, as hens need calcium within 16 hours of eggshell formation. Supplementing calcium in the afternoon can greatly improve shell quality and reduce damage. Adding 0.01% to 0.015% vitamin AD powder to the feed can also support calcium absorption.
Finally, disease prevention is a key component of maintaining high eggshell quality. Diseases such as Newcastle disease, infectious bronchitis, and egg drop syndrome can severely affect shell integrity. Vaccinating hens with an inactivated ND+IB+EDS oil emulsion vaccine before they enter the laying house, along with regular disinfection of the environment, can help prevent outbreaks. During rainy seasons or temperature drops, adding 0.05% oxytetracycline to the feed can boost immunity. Prompt treatment of sick birds is also necessary to minimize losses.
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