Diet Specifications for Laying Hen
The layer’s peak energy needs are most likely met at around 35 – 40 weeks of age, when daily egg mass output is maximized. However, the layer quite precisely adjusts its intake according to needs for energy, and so variable energy needs are accommodated by change in feed intake.
Most Leghorn strains will now commence egg production with feed intakes as low as 80 – 85 g per day, and it is difficult to formulate diets for such a small appetite. For brown-egg strains, initial feed intake will be around 92 – 95 g per day, so formulation is more easily accommodated. For all diets, maintaining the balance of all nutrients to energy is the most important consideration during formulation.
April 27 2008 09:49 am | Poultry