Effect of Pasture and Feed Additives on Performance and Egg Quality in Ranging Laying Hens

Abstract

Free-range egg production is rapidly growing in Australia with an estimated retail value market share of 48% (AECL, 2014). Laying hens exposed to pasture range may experience reduced performance, poor enteric health and increased mortality (Ruhnke et al., 2014). In addition, egg quality can also be affected, indicated by the increased number of damaged and misplaced eggs as well as decreased egg shell quality (Kijlstra et al., 2009). These effects may be related to excessive fiber digestion and reduced nutrient uptake. The addition of multi-enzymes or organic acids to free-range layer diets may improve the digestion of nutrients, thus increasing performance, gut health and egg quality. A study was conducted to investigate the effect of range types and feed additives on performance and egg quality of ranging laying hens.