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Kosovo, like the global trend, is experiencing a rising demand for eggs, emphasizing the necessity for stringent regulatory oversight to maintain freshness and meet increasing consumer and industrials' needs. The research aimed to evaluate the compliance of eggs in the local market with specified quality criteria outlined in the local Administrative Directive and EC Regulation. Several quality parameters were scrutinized, including egg weight, length, width, specific gravity, air cell, Haugh units (HU), yolk and egg white weights, yolk color intensity, shell weight, and shell thickness. Key parameters varied significantly among Fresh Eggs and farms F1 to F5. Most groups displayed significantly lower egg weights, yolk, and egg white weights compared to Fresh Eggs (p < 0.01). Among different groups, Fresh Eggs have the highest Haugh unit and the lowest specific gravity, indicating superior egg quality. Among groups, F4 has the lowest Haugh unit (p < 0.00001), and F3/F4 exhibited the largest air cell size (p < 0.0001), while F5/Fresh Eggs were the smallest, with no significant differences between themselves (p > 0.05). Fresh eggs outshined in all groups in relation to size and yolk color (p < 0.0001). The study found positive correlations (p < 0.01) between egg weight and internal parameters, including yolk and white weights. Eggshell weight also correlated positively with yolk and white weights (p < 0.05). Conversely, Haugh unit and air cell exhibited negative correlations (p < 0.01), indicating their influence on egg dimensions. Classification based on regulation revealed distinct categories for consumption and industrial use. These findings contribute valuable insights to Kosovo's egg market, impacting standards and promoting fair competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to study the effect of probiotic supplementation in diet on egg production, egg quality, intestinal morphology, and bacterial population in caecum of laying hens. A total of 768 Lohmann Brown-Classic laying hens, aged 42 - 54 weeks, were used. The laying hens were divided into 3 groups, each with 8 subgroups of 32 birds each. The experiment was planned to use a completely randomized design method. The 3 experimental groups were classified based on their dietary treatment as follows: 1) Basal diet (without probiotic supplementation), 2) Basal diet with probiotic 0.01 and 0.02 % in 3, respectively. Data was collected for 12 weeks. Adding probiotic in the diet was no significant difference on egg production, egg quality, and bacterial population in caecum. However, probiotic supplementation in the diet increased villi height of the duodenum significantly improved (p < 0.02), villi height per depth crypt of the duodenum significantly improved (p < 0.05), villi height per depth crypt of the jejunum significantly improved (p < 0.01), and villi height per depth crypt of the ileum significantly improved (p < 0.02). Therefore, studies have shown that dietary probiotic supplementation can improved small intestinal morphology are the most important indexes for measuring the digestive and absorption function of the small intestine are more efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used a combination of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) and ultraviolet (UV) 222 nm with plasma-activated hydrogen peroxide (PAHP) pre-treatment to optimise the pasteurisation of fresh eggs and to investigate their freshness quality. The optimal treatment conditions (power density of 2.5 W/cm3, treatment distance of 7.8 cm, and an airflow rate of 4 m3/min) resulted in significant reductions in Salmonella Enteritidis by 1.25 log CFU/egg, Campylobacter jejuni by 1.47 log CFU/egg, and Staphylococcus aureus by 2.32 log CFU/egg. The pasteurisation mechanism was attributed to reactive oxygen species particles generated by the plasma and enhanced plasma micro-discharges induced by UV light. Importantly, the freshness quality of the eggs, including various parameters such as Haugh unit, yolk index, eggshell hardness, egg yolk pH value, eggshell thickness, and egg yolk colour, remained unchanged during shelf-life storage under refrigeration conditions. Overall, the combination of PAHP pre-treatment and cold atmospheric plasma fusion of 222 nm ultraviolet proved effective in sterilising and preserving fresh eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the challenges in the management of Kinosternon scorpioides is related to egg quality, since mineral deficiencies affect egg production. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ultrastructure and mineral composition of eggshells, and their relation to K. scorpioides embryonic skeletogenesis. Eggs were collected, incubated and distributed into three groups: 1- pre-ossification (PO); 2- bone ossification (BO); and 3- complete ossification (CO). Nine samples were included in the PO and BO groups, and six in the CO group, for a total of 24 eggs. The morphological and mineral analyses of the eggs were performed by scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The embryos from the BO and CO groups were cleared with potassium hydroxide and stained with alcian blue and alizarin red to observe osteogenesis. The results showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the amount of shell calcium between the PO (63.14%) and CO (41.95%) groups, as well as in the shell thickness between the same groups (PO: 305.38 ± 60.27 μm; CO: 197.67 ± 40.28 μm), and BO (289.56 ± 55.87 μm) and CO groups. It is suggested that the gradual mobilization of calcium by the embryo is reflected in the decrease in shell thickness. In addition, the first structures to ossify were the dermatocranium and mandible. The CO group, in which the individuals all had established bone structures, had the lowest calcium concentration of eggshells. Approximately 21% of the shell calcium was absorbed, which suggests participation in the embryo skeletogenesis. Understanding calcium dynamics as they relate to shell quality and embryonic development of K. scorpioides highlights the importance of including this mineral in the diet of breeding females and, consequently, in improving offspring production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Due to the European Union ban on antibiotic growth promoters in 2006, there has been a rising interest in natural substitutes for antibiotics in poultry nutrition. These substitutes include various plants, herbs, organic acids, probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics. When incorporated into compound feeds for poultry, these additives show comparable production results to antibiotic growth promoters, especially when accompanied by other changes such as environmental adjustments. Bee pollen is a good source of active substances, including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and phenolic compounds that can be incorporated in animal feed to enhance gut activity and promote growth in poultry production. This review highlights the benefits of adding bee pollen to poultry nutrition and its influence on performance, health, meat and egg quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Spirulina platensis (SP) has been identified as a 'functional food' in nutrition research. This review evaluates the potential of SP as a feed ingredient for laying hens, and to determine whether it can be classified as a functional food. We conducted a review study to assess the impact of Spirulina inclusion on the production of laying hens and the quality of eggs. Literatures have been shown improvement in performance and egg production along with immunomodulating, hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of SP in laying hens. Additionally, it exhibits significant hypocholesterolemic activity and can enhance egg quality and egg yolk pigmentation. The studies explored a range of Spirulina inclusion levels, from 0.1% to 15%. Incorporating 1–3% SP in laying hens' diet can improve productive performance and internal egg quality parameters across published research. However, since the results were conflicting, we conducted a meta-analysis review using statistical data from various studies. This meta-analysis aims to assess the impact of Spirulina inclusion on laying hens production, and yolk colour. The Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were searched from 1990 to 2024. The results showed that the use of Spirulina significantly reduced egg weight (standard difference in means (SDM): 0.223; I2: 92.073; 95% CI: −0.429, −0.018; P: 0.033) and yolk colour (SDM: −0.574; I2: 86.987; 95% CI: −0.930, −0.218; P: 0.002) in the control groups compared to the Spirulina-fed birds. However, egg mass (SDM: −0.345; I2: 88.094; 95% CI: −0.692, −0.002; P: 0.051), feed intake (SDM: −0.153; I2: 94.165; 95% CI: −0.475, 0.169; P: 0.352), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) (SDM: 0.106; I2: 86.604; 95% CI: −0.089, −0.302; P: 0.287) were not significantly affected by dietary Spirulina. Therefore, this meta-analysis concludes that Spirulina inclusion, at the doses tested, does not affect the main production performance parameters of laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary modifications to overcome infertility have attracted attention; however, scientifically substantiated information on specific dietary components affecting fertility and their mechanisms is limited. Herein, we investigated diet-induced, reversible infertility in female mice lacking the heterodimer of ATP-binding cassette transporters G5 and G8 (ABCG5/G8), which functions as a lipid exporter in the intestine. We found that dietary phytosterols, especially β-sitosterol and brassicasterol, which are substrates of ABCG5/G8, have potent but reversible reproductive toxicities in mice. Mechanistically, these phytosterols inhibited ovarian folliculogenesis and reduced egg quality by enhancing polycomb repressive complex 2-mediated histone H3 trimethylation at lysine 27 in the ovary. Clinical analyses showed that serum phytosterol levels were significantly and negatively correlated with the blastocyst development rate of fertilized eggs in women undergoing in vitro fertilization, suggesting that phytosterols affect egg quality in both humans and mice. Thus, avoiding excessive intake of certain phytosterols would be beneficial for female reproductive health. In the mouse ovary, dietary phytosterols are shown to inhibit ovarian folliculogenesis and to reduce egg quality by enhancing PRC2-mediated histone H3 trimethylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In recent years, the European Commission has approved the use of farmed insects in poultry feeding. Among the different farmed insects allowed, the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) stands out for being a dense source of nutrients and for its ability to transform most organic wastes, such as household food leftovers and livestock manure, into a rich source of essential amino acids, enabling thus the recycling of large amounts of residues. Currently, the main protein source used in the feed of laying hens is soybean meal. However, the use of soybean meal entails several concerns like deforestation, high carbon footprint, and its origin from genetically modified seeds. In the present research work, it was proven that soybean meal can be fully replaced by black soldier fly meal in the diet of hens without affecting the laying performance or the egg weight. This replacement also led to higher yolk concentration in vitamin E. Nonetheless, the dietary inclusion of black soldier fly meal also implied some impairment in egg quality, such as lower yolk colour score, worse albumen quality, reduced yolk concentrations in zinc and vitamin A, and decreased percentages of polyunsaturated and ω-3 fatty acids in egg yolk. (1) Background: Given the problems currently posed by the use of soybean meal in poultry feeding, its replacement with black soldier fly (BSF) meal may be a suitable strategy. Therefore, this study evaluated the effect of this dietary replacement on laying performance, egg quality, and yolk nutritional composition in free-range reared hens. (2) Methods: Three diets were formulated: a control diet with 210 g/kg of soybean meal, a diet with 105 g/kg of soybean meal and 80 g/kg of BSF meal, and a diet with 160 g/kg of BSF meal. This eight-week-long study was performed with 126 Bovans Brown hens aged 36 weeks (six replicates of seven hens each per dietary treatment); (3) Results: The laying performance of hens was not influenced by the diet consumed. Neither was the yolk content in fat, protein, cholesterol, choline, B vitamins, and cholecalciferol affected. The dietary inclusion of BSF meal made yolk colour score and albumen Haugh units decrease (p < 0.001) by 51.1% and 12.0%, respectively. It also reduced the yolk content in retinol (by 10.1%, p = 0.0037), but it increased that of α- and γ-tocopherol (by 27.6%, p = 0.014, and 25.8%, p = 0.0077, respectively). A negative linear effect (p < 0.001) was observed on yolk zinc concentration and on the proportions of polyunsaturated and ω-3 fatty acids with increasing dietary dose of BSF meal; (4) Conclusions: Soybean meal could be fully replaced by BSF meal in the diet of hens without affecting the laying rate or the egg weight. However, the dietary inclusion of BSF meal led to paler yolks and impaired albumen quality, while it decreased the content of retinol and zinc and the proportions of polyunsaturated and ω-3 fatty acids in egg yolk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We investigated the effects of dietary oregano oil supplementation with different concentrations on the egg quality, intestinal morphology and cecal microbiome of late-phase laying hens. The results showed that dietary oregano oil supplementation could enhance eggshell thickness and increase the content of PUFA, thiamine, riboflavin, selenium and phosphorus in egg yolk. Meanwhile, oregano oil supplementation had a good effect on the intestinal morphology and structure of laying hens in the late laying period. The differential microorganisms were significantly correlated with egg quality characteristics. Oregano oil may enhance the amino acid content of eggs by increasing the abundance of Synergistota, which in turn enhances egg quality. These results will support the use of oregano oil as a new feed additive to improve egg quality. Overall, 25 mg/kg of dietary oregano oil had the best effects. Improving egg quality is one of the main objectives of the poultry industry. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary oregano oil supplementation with different concentrations on the egg quality, intestinal morphology and cecal microbiome of late-phase laying hens. A total of 300 55-week-old Snowy white laying hens were randomly divided into five groups and fed a basal diet (control) or basal diets supplemented with oregano oil at 25, 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg (O25, O50, O75 and O100) over a 100-day period. Compared with the control group, eggshell thickness and eggshell weight were increased significantly in eggs when oregano oil was added (p < 0.05). The highest content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and C18:2n6c was observed in yolks with 25 mg/kg supplement among 5 groups (p < 0.05). The highest average content of riboflavin in egg yolk and thiamine in egg white was observed in the O25 group (p < 0.05). When the supplemental levels of oregano oil were 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, the selenium and phosphorus content in the egg was significantly increased (p < 0.05). The ratio of villus height to crypt depth (V/C) and villus height of the small intestine was significantly increased compared with the chickens fed the basal diet (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the abundance of Megamonas was increased in the O50 group (p < 0.05). The unclassified_o__Bacteroidales in the O25 group were significantly higher than those in the other four groups (p < 0.05). These differential microorganisms were significantly correlated with egg quality characteristics. Dietary supplementation of oregano oil can significantly improve egg quality via gut microbiota alteration in laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit waste poses a significant global challenge, with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reporting that about 1.3 billion tons of food is wasted annually, contributing to environmental and economic challenges. The major fruit-producing countries (United States, China, India, and Brazil) are responsible for a large portion of this waste. Fruit waste contains different bioactive compounds like polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins, and carotenoids, which are, in large part, underutilized regardless of their antioxidant properties. These compounds can play an important function in poultry nutrition, offering natural alternatives to synthetic antioxidants. Reintegrating fruit waste into poultry diets might have potent benefits on the nutritional quality and shelf life of eggs. Some studies reported that bioactive compounds from fruit waste improve the oxidative stability of eggs and the nutritional content, potentially extending shelf life during storage. Additionally, antioxidant compounds from fruit waste have been shown to improve yolk coloration and some egg quality parameters while reducing reactive oxygen species, which cause lipid oxidation. Their inclusion in poultry diets can lower feed costs, promote animal welfare, and reduce the environmental impact of fruit waste. This review highlights some key fruit wastes, such as citrus, apple, grape, rosehip, sea buckthorn, and banana, among others, which are natural reservoirs of bioactive compounds beneficial for poultry nutrition. This strategy aligns with FAO sustainability goals, addressing both food waste and animal nutrition challenges. Future studies should focus on optimizing the inclusion rates of these natural antioxidants in poultry diets to maximize their benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Molting is induced in commercial laying hens to rejuvenate the reproductive system and increase egg production. However, this process causes stress and reduces bird health and performance. Methods: The experiment was conducted to study the effect of multi probiotics and vitamin additives on induced molting in 240 ISA Brown hens. Hens were randomly divided into four groups receiving probiotic and vitamin additives (I–IV) during different period of molting. During the whole molting process, the laying performance indexes such as egg laying rate, egg quality, ovary weight and oviduct lengths were measured, and the spleen index, serum immunoglobulin, immune response of NDV and AIV vaccine were monitored. Results: Molted hens resumed 50% egg production in just 37 days, with 1.62% mortality. Egg quality such as egg weight, yolk color, Haugh unit, eggshell strength and protein height were significantly improved. After the second production peak, the reproductive organs and immune organs returned to normal, and the immune antibody titer of NDV vaccine increased significantly. Discussion: Molting with probiotic and vitamin additives improve the laying performance and egg quality, reduce mortality, significantly improve immune function and vaccine titer, and help to enhance disease resistance and maintain production performance of aged laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was conducted to investigate the impacts of passiflora stem and leaf extract on the laying performance, egg quality, and antioxidant properties in heat-stressed laying hens. A total of 240 hyland brown laying hens, aged 210 days, were randomly divided into four groups: control, low-dose, medium-dose and high-dose. The control group received a basal diet, while the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups were supplemented with 250, 500, and 1 000 mg/kg of passiflora stem and leaf extract in the basal diet, respectively, for a duration of 42 days. The results showed as follows: the average egg weight of the passiflora stem and leaf extract-added groups were significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). The laying rate of high-dose group showed significantly higher laying rate com⁃pared to the control group (P<0.05), and both the high- and medium-dose groups exhibited significantly higher average feed intake than the control group (P<0.05). The feed-egg ratio of the high-dose group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P<0.05). The protein height and haugh unit of eggs from the high- and middle-dose groups displayed a significantly higher value compared to the control group (P<0.05). The eggshell thickness of the high-dose group were significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in egg weight, yolk proportion, egg shape index and yolk color among all groups (P>0.05). The serum glutathione peroxidase activity of laying hens in high- and medium-dose groups were significantly higher than that of control group (P<0.05). The content of malondialdehyde in passiflora stem and leaf extract-added groups were significantly lower than that of control group (P<0.05), but there were no significant differences in superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity and catalase activity among all groups (P>0.05). It is concluded that passiflora stem and leaf extract can improve laying performance, egg quality and antioxidant performance of heat-stressed laying hens in summer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Background: The aim of the present study was to assess the egg quality, food safety, and hygiene practices in egg production among commercial and non-commercial farms. Methods: A total of six, each commercial and non-commercial farm, were randomly selected form Barwala district, Panchkula, Haryana, for this study in 2019. A detailed interview on hygiene practices of farm workers was conducted. Egg samples were procured for external (N = 60) and internal (N = 24) egg quality determination. The swap samples (N = 24) were also analysed for bacterial contamination. Descriptive statistics were used for reporting the results, and Chi-square test was conducted for determining significant differences between commercial and non-commercial farms. Results: The egg yolk percentage (34.49%) and egg shell percentage (12.76) were higher among non-commercial farms. However, no significant external (P = 0.890) or internal (P = 0.367) egg quality difference was found between commercial and non-commercial farms. The biosecurity and disinfection management, daily waste disposal practice, fly and rodent control practice, farm activity record, and flock health monitoring were relatively better among commercial farms. There were no significant differences found in any of these assessments. The colony forming units (cfu) for salmonella and coliform were acceptable in three and four procured samples from commercial farms, respectively, whereas none were within acceptable levels among non-commercial farms. Conclusion: The internal egg quality, food safety, and hygiene practices were relatively better among commercial farms as compared to non-commercial farms. This requires further validation through a large sample-sized study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was designed to investigate the effects of different housing systems on production performance, egg quality and welfare in laying hens. Methods: One hundred and twenty 42‐week‐old "Atak S" laying hens, purchased from a manufacturing company, were randomly assigned to 4 housing systems: conventional cages, furnished cages, deep‐litter system and free‐range. Each system housed 30 hens, which were kept in these systems for 6 weeks. Parameters regarding production performance, egg quality, plumage condition scores and tonic immobility were assessed at the end of the housing period. Results: Egg production and egg mass were lower in cage‐free rearing systems than in caged systems. Mean egg weight in free‐range hens, and albumen height and Haugh unit in deep‐litter hens, were lower than in other housing systems. Eggshell weight in hens housed in furnished cages was greater than in free‐range hens, while eggshell strength was better compared to that of hens in conventional cages. The housing system did not impact fearfulness; however, the deep‐litter housing increased the sensitivity to touch or capture. Whole body and regional plumage condition scores of free‐range hens elicited more favourable results than those kept in conventional cages. Because the plumage condition indicates welfare, the results proved the superiority of free‐range over conventional rearing regarding welfare. Conclusions: Concerning the parameters, such as egg production, animal welfare and fear level, overall data revealed the pros and cons of all housing systems investigated. We consider that this study's findings might contribute to the researchers and breeders seeking alternative housing for laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The vegetable‐based diet alone does not provide the lysine (Lys) needed to maximize poultry productive performance. Objectives: This experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary digestible Lys (dLys) level on productive and reproductive performance, egg quality, blood metabolites and immune responses in breeding Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica). Methods: The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with 6 treatments, 5 replicates and 15 (12 females and 3 meals) 10‐week‐old breeding Japanese quails each. A basal diet was formulated to meet nutritional requirements of breeding quails except dLys. The basal diet was supplemented with graded (+0.82 g/kg) levels of l‐Lys‐HCl, corresponding to dietary dLys levels of 0.690%, 0.755%, 0.820%, 0.885%, 0.950% and 1.015%. The experiment lasted for 12 weeks, which was divided into 3‐4‐week periods. Results: Significant differences were observed for egg production (EP), egg mass (EM) and feed efficiency (FE) in response to increasing dietary dLys concentration with quadratic trends. The highest traits were observed in the birds fed with a diet containing 0.885% dLys. However, feed intake, egg quality, reproductive performance, blood metabolites and immune responses against sheep red blood cell inoculation were not significantly affected by increasing dietary dLys concentrations. The dLys requirements during 11–14, 15–18, 19–22 and 11–22 (overall) weeks of age for optimal EP, EM and FE, based on the quadratic broken‐line regression analysis, were estimated 272, 265, 250 and 266; 293, 285, 264 and 279; and 303, 294, 281 and 293 mg/bird/day, respectively. Conclusions: The dLys requirements vary depending on the EP phase and the trait being optimized. The estimated dLys requirement for FE was higher than those for EP and EM. During the peak stage of the first laying cycle, the dietary dLys level of 0.932% and a daily intake of 303 mg dLys/bird are sufficient for optimal performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dietary lysine and apparent nitrogen-corrected metabolizable energy (AMEn) are two key variables affecting the production of breeder hens. In this study, the effects and interactions of lysine and AMEn on yellow-feathered broiler breeder hens were investigated. A total of 720 30-week-old breeder hens were fed in a 5 (lysine: 0.56%, 0.68%, 0.80%, 0.92%, and 1.04%) × 2 (AMEn: 11.50 and 11.10 MJ/kg) factorial arrangement for 12 weeks. The productive performance, reproductive traits, biochemical variables of breeder hens, the amino acid concentration and quality of eggs, and the growth performance of offspring broilers were determined. Result: (1) Dietary lysine had quadratic effects (P < 0.05) on laying rate, average daily egg mass and feed intake/egg mass of breeder hens; birds with 11.50 MJ/kg AMEn (high AMEn) had higher (P < 0.05) BW than those with 11.10 MJ/kg AMEn (low AMEn); (2) dietary lysine significantly affected on the relative ovarian weight (quadratic and linear), and numbers of large yellow follicles (LYF, quadratic); birds with high AMEn had longer fallopian tube and more LYF than those with low AMEn (P < 0.05); (3) dietary lysine had significant effects (linear and quadratic) on eggshell thickness and shell strength of eggs from breeder hens; birds with high AMEn had thinner eggshells and deeper yolk color than those with low AMEn (P < 0.05); (4) there were higher (P < 0.05) contents of protein and concentrations of all measured animo acids (AAs) in eggs from birds fed low AMEn; (5) supplementation with high AMEn to breeder hens significantly increased the hatchability of fertilized eggs; (6) neither dietary lysine level or AMEn affected growth performance of offspring broilers; (7) both dietary lysine level and AMEn significantly affected gonadotropin concentrations and biochemical variables of breeder hens. Conclusions: Dietary lysine had significant influences on productive performance, reproductive traits, and egg quality of yellow-feathered breeder hens. Based on productive performance, the optimal levels of dietary lysine were 0.81% to 0.83%, while 0.71% to 72% lysine was enough to obtain the best quality of breeding eggs. High AMEn was more beneficial to breeder hens for reproductive traits and hatchability of the fertilized eggs, while it showed detrimental effects on eggshell thickness and AA concentrations of breeding eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean meal is the dominant protein source for poultry nutrition. However, soybean is not widely grown in Europe, necessitating importation from other countries. To reduce dependency on imported soybean meal, an alternative feed material is needed. Fermentation and/or germination of grains are known to increase the value of the protein content of a diet. This study aimed to determine if they could substitute partly soybean meal in a diet. Germinated or fermented or germinated and fermented grains of lupin and oats were used in laying hen's diet (a mix of 6.50% lupin and 3.50% oat grains). Oats were dehulled or not dehulled. The hens' weight loss and the downgraded eggs rate were the lowest when using fermented grains. All trial diets reduced the egg cholesterol content. Dehulling had only a slight effect on performance. Diets containing germinated grains led to a decrease in laying performance and an increase in body weight loss. Diets containing fermented grains gave the best results in terms of quantity of amino acids, hen weight maintenance, laying performance, and egg quality. In conclusion, fermented lupin and oats can be used in laying hen diets to partly substitute sources of protein such as soya, but germinated grains cannot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During conventional pasteurization, eggs are submerged for 60 min at 56.7 °C, a lengthy and costly process that affects egg quality. Radio frequency (RF), a means to pasteurize eggs without affecting quality, is a novel option based on fast volumetric heating; however, there is scarce information about the quality of such treated food. This research consisted in a comprehensive quality study on eggs treated with RF. The RF system was operated at 40.68 MHz, 40 W and 16 W (8 min total), and 42 rpm. The quality assessment included the determination of Haugh unit, yolk index, compression strength, albumen turbidity, albumen and yolk pH, and yolk color. Additional analyses were conducted to quantify the mineral composition of the eggshell (40.68 MHz, 40 W, 42 rpm, 5.5, 8.5, and 10 min); these samples were observed by SEM. The results showed that RF did not significantly (p > 0.05) change any quality parameters. The mineral composition remained constant in processed eggs. The SEM images of RF-treated eggs showed some smooth spots; however, these areas could exist due to the high variability of the eggshells. RF is an option to process intact eggs, maintaining their fresh quality and keeping the integrity of the eggshell to ensure the food safety of the internal egg components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egg quality is a vital factor in the poultry industry. High-quality eggs not only meet consumer expectations for appearance, taste, and nutritional value but also have high marketability, profitability, and consumer satisfaction. Accordingly, we executed our research with the purpose of determining chromosomal regions and genetic markers associated with egg quality in an F2 cross-bred chicken population under tropical conditions; we determined these through a genome-wide association study and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping. This population was created by cross-breeding the L2 line of Taiwan Country chickens, which is adapted to local conditions in Taiwan, with an experimental line (R-line) of Rhode Island Red layer chickens, which was developed by the French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment. A 60 K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping array for chickens was employed to execute the analysis. Our analysis revealed 40 QTLs associated with egg quality under tropical conditions, namely 20 QTLs with genome-wide statistical significance and 20 QTLs with chromosome-wide statistical significance. Furthermore, we identified 93 SNPs exerting discernible effects on egg quality, with 10 of these effects exhibiting genome-wide significance and 83 exhibiting potential significance. The majority of the detected QTL regions and SNPs agreed with those identified as having an association with egg quality or production traits in previous studies, thus supporting the interrelationships determined between the studied characteristics. The findings of this study enhance the understanding regarding the genetic regulation governing chicken egg quality, thereby serving as a valuable reference for future functional investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Nutritional interventions with natural antioxidants can provide a pragmatic solution for modifying hens’ performance and maintaining oxidative stability of eggs during storage. Quercetin is the most abundant flavonoids with potent antioxidant and immune stimulant activities. The concept of incorporating of quercetin, as potent antioxidant and immunostimulant, into effective nano-carriers (QNPs) has promoted their bioavailability and stability thus, their effectiveness for the first time were assessed on laying hens’ performance and immunity, eggs quality during storage. Four hundred 12-weeks-old Hy-line brown laying hens were distributed to four experimental groups: control group fed basal diets, and other 3 groups fed basal diets fortified with 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg QNPs for 60 weeks. Results: Laying performance and quality of laid eggs were improved as expressed by elevated laying rate, egg mass %, eggs weight and yolk weight in QNPs200 and 300. Fortification of QNPs300 remarkably decreased layers serum total cholesterol concurrently with decreased egg yolk saturated fatty acids and cholesterol while increased polyunsaturated fatty acids. Over- 45 days storage period, QNPs enhanced phospholipids, total phenolics and flavonoids, total antioxidant activity (T-AOC) simultaneous with decreased MDA content in eggs. Furthermore, enhanced immune response was detected in both in serum and intestine of QNPs fed hens as reflected by higher lysozymes activity, IgM, IgG and phagocytic index and demotion of NO together with AvBD 6–12, IL-10, IgM and ATg 5-7-12 upregulation and downregulation of IL-1β and TNF-α especially at QNPs200 and 300. Intestinal redox balance was modified via decreasing H2O2 and MDA simultaneous with upregulation of catalase, SOD, GSH-Px, HO-1 and NQO1 in groups fed higher doses of QNPs. Conclusions: QNPs supplementation provides a new nutritional strategy towards increasing hen performance, fortification of eggs with natural antioxidants that prevents egg quality deterioration during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. This study assessed the addition of dried stinging nettle (SN) leaves at 0%, 2.5% and 5.0% in feed on egg production, egg quality, chemical composition and antioxidant content in eggs from laying hens.2. Seventy-two Hy-Line Brown laying hens, housed in 36 enriched layer cages, were used in the study from 43 to 47 weeks of age. Feeding dry SN leaves did not affect (p > 0.05) egg production variables.3. Dietary SN inclusion linearly increased (p < 0.001) carotenoid content more than six-fold, in addition to yellowness and redness of the yolks at the maximum inclusion. Providing eggs from hens fed carotenoid enriched diets, e.g. SN, may be used to increase carotenoids in human diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Shuanghuanglian is a Chinese medicine composed of Honeysuckle Flower, Baical Skullcap Root, and Fructus Forsythiae. It has various effects, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and immunomodulatory effects. The fermented product of Shuanghuanglian can be used as an antibiotic alternative, as it has similar efficacy, which may improve the immunity, feed intake and utilization efficiency of laying hens, thus improving their production performance. The aim of this study was to optimize the fermentation conditions for Shuanghuanglian using single factor and response surface methodology, evaluate the chemical and microbial composition of the Shuanghuanglian fermentation liquor (SFL), and explore the effects of SFL on the production performance of laying hens. Methods: A total of 288 Xinyang black-feather laying hens (50 week-old) were randomly allocated to four treatments with nine replicates, each replicate containing eight hens, for a total of 37 days trial (including a 7-day adaptation period). The treatments included a control group (0% SFL in drinking water) and drinking water supplemented with 0.3, 0.5, or 0.7% SFL. Results: The fermentation optimization conditions for Shuanghuanglian were selected as a solid-to-liquid ratio at 1:7, 3% inoculation quantity, fermentation temperature at 28°C for 5 days, initial pH of 7, 60 mesh (sieved), and rotation speed of 150 r/min. Various bioactive compounds, such as myrtenol, 2-hexyn-1-ol, arsenous acid tris(trimethylsilyl) ester, 3(10)-caren-4-ol, and oxime-, methoxy-phenyl, were detected in SFL. The most abundant bacterial phyla in SFL were Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, with Acinetobacter being the most abundant genus. The most abundant fungal phyla were Phragmoplastophyta and Magnoliophyta. The 0.5 and 0.7% SFL supplementation in water increased egg weight and laying rate, while decreasing the feed-to-egg ratio of laying hens compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7% SFL supplementation in water increased (p < 0.05) the Haugh unit, but there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in albumen height, egg shape index, egg thickness, and yolk color of the eggs. Conclusion: Supplementation of SFL under optimized conditions had a positive impact on the production performance of laying hens, especially when the supplementation amount reached 0.5%. This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of Shuanghuanglian in the commercial egg industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The addition of alternative feed sources such as Green Tea Powder to the feed of poultry, especially laying hens, has attracted attention due to its potential benefits. Therefore, the purpose of this study—with the addition of Green Tea Powder to the diet of laying hens—is, on the one hand, to explore the beneficial effects of Green Tea Powder on the production performance and physical function of laying hens and, on the other hand, to explore the utilization of Green Tea Powder and improve the utilization rate of biological resources. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of Green Tea Powder during the laying period can reduce the serum yolk weight of laying hens. The serum levels of immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin M were increased, and the serum levels of malondialdehyde were decreased. Egg shell strength and shell thickness decreased, and egg yolk color deepened. Additionally, the percentage of amino acids in the eggs increased. It is beneficial to the health of laying hens to increase the diversity of intestinal flora and improve the structure of cecum flora. This study investigated the effects of Green Tea Powder supplementation on the performance and egg quality of laying hens and ultimately guided the development of more effective and scientific animal feeding strategies. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different levels of Green Tea Powder on the performance, egg quality, serum immune and antioxidant indices, and cecal microflora of 300-day-old Chishui black-bone chickens during the peak laying period. A total of 360 Chishui black-bone chickens were selected as the experimental animals. They were randomly allocated into four groups: the control group (CON), trial group I (T1), trial group II (T2), and trial group III (T3), each group with six replicates and 15 hens in each replicate. The control group was fed a basal diet, and the experimental groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with 0.8%, 1.6%, and 2.4% Green Tea Powder, respectively. The accommodation period was 14 d, and the experimental period was 60 d. The statistical software SPSS was used to perform a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) on the experimental data, and Duncan's method was used to perform multiple comparisons among groups. The results showed the following: compared with those of the control group, the average daily gain of the laying hens significantly decreased in the 1.6% Green Tea Powder group (p < 0.05); adding Green Tea Powder significantly reduced the content of malondialdehyde in the serum (p < 0.05), and the addition of 0.8% tea leaves significantly increased the immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin A contents (p < 0.05); the egg yolk weight, eggshell thickness, eggshell strength, and yolk color of the laying hens significantly decreased in the 1.6% Green Tea Powder group (p < 0.05), and the addition of Green Tea Powder at the level of 2.4% significantly increased the percentage of umami, essential, and total amino acids (p < 0.05); and the structure of intestinal microorganisms was improved, and the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Bacteroidaceae significantly increased, while the abundance of Firmicutes and Lachnospiraceae significantly decreased (p < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The genetic polymorphisms in the ovocalyxin-32 gene were studied in the present work with regard to egg quality traits in indigenous chicken populations. In the same investigation, based on exons 1 and 6, the frequencies of G/T and A/G SNPs regarding the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) and their role in egg quality were determined. The T allele of the G/T SNP in exon 1 was associated with thinner shells and lower shell strength, while the A/G SNP in exon 1 resulted in eternal eggs with thicker shells in AG and AA genotypes. Regarding this, the A/G SNP in exon 6 was able to enhance shell and yolk quality in AG genotypes. These SNPs could be considered candidate genetic markers for marker-assisted selection (MAS) focusing on egg quality improvement, which has additive and dominance genetic effects on phenotypic variation. This study sought to evaluate the genetic variations of the ovocalyxin-32 gene and its association with egg quality traits in indigenous chicken populations, focusing on exons 1 and 6. Genotype frequencies of SNPs (G/T and A/G) within these exons were assessed for their conformity to the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) across several strains. While most strains exhibited close adherence to HWE expectations, some like light-brown and gray strains indicated substantial discrepancies, particularly for the TT genotype, which points towards the possible effects of genetic drift as well as selection pressures. This study also analyzed the influence of such SNPs on egg quality parameters. A thinner eggshell, reduced shell weight, and decreased breaking strength were associated with the G/T SNP in exon 1, suggesting a likely negative effect on egg quality in T allele carriers. Conversely, the AG genotype displayed better performance in shell thickness, weight and egg weight in the A/G SNP in exon 1, whilst yolk height was best improved by the AA genotype compared to breaking strength. For instance, in exon 6, the A/G SNP enhanced the shell and yolk quality among AG genotypes, while the CC genotype resulted in better eggshell characteristics with enlarged yolks because the C/T SNP was linked. Nonetheless, there were no significant deviations from the HWE despite these associations, which suggested that most breeds had a stable genetic background. Further, considering SNPs' additive and dominant effects in this research, it was indicated that additive effects account for phenotypic expressions given by the G/T SNP located at exon 1. In contrast, significant additive and dominant effects were observed under the A/G SNP situated at the exon. Generally, it therefore could be concluded from this study that specific SNPs within the ovocalyxin-32 gene may act as good markers for marker-assisted selection (MAS) that can improve desired characteristics—such as those of egg quality—in indigenous chicken breeds. This study demonstrated that both additive and dominance effects must be taken into account when performing genetic analyses, thereby emphasizing the complexity of phenotypic variation caused by genetic mechanisms in native chicken races. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Lactobionic acid (Lba) has been found to have a range of health-promoting benefits and practical applications across various fields, including agriculture. However, the impact of Lba on the chemical composition and nutritional quality of eggs from early laying hens has been largely overlooked. The incorporation of Lba into the diet has been observed to elevate the content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), specifically palmitoleic and vaccenic acids. In summary, as a functional product, Lba has the potential to improve the productivity of laying hens and enhance the nutritional value of eggs during the early laying period. Lactobionic acid (Lba), an oligosaccharide aldonic acid, has demonstrated various health-promoting benefits and applications in diverse areas. Lba has been recognized for its multifunctional properties, such as metal ion chelation and calcium sequestration. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of supplementing the diet of early-laying hens with Lba (EXP group) on their performance and the physical–chemical properties, and nutritional quality of eggs. The 12-week study involved 700 Sonja breed hens per group, with the EXP group's diet enriched with 2% of biotechnologically produced Lba, while the control group (CON) received no Lba supplementation. Lba supplementation influenced both the hen's performance and egg quality, particularly in terms of egg production and fatty acid accumulation. Performance in the EXP group was significantly improved (p < 0.05), showing a 4.6–8.9% increase compared to the CON group at all experiment stages. Lba also promoted an increase in monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) content, particularly palmitoleic and vaccenic acids. Overall, Lba supplementation enhanced both the productivity of laying hens and the nutritional value of eggs during the early laying period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taihe black-boned silky fowl (TS) is a native chicken breed in China with more than 2000 years of history. The present study aimed to characterize and evaluate the physical, nutritional, and flavor properties of TS eggs with a comparison to two other commercial breeds. Eggs from TS (n = 60) crossbred black-boned silky fowl (CB, n = 60) and Hy-line Brown (HL, n = 60) were used for physicochemical analysis. The evaluation system was divided into four parts based on nutrient and flavor profiles: protein and amino acids, lipids and fatty acids, mineral elements, and flavor-related amino acids and volatile compounds. Results showed that TS eggs were typically associated with the lowest egg weight and the highest yolk color, as compared with CB and HL eggs. No differences were found in crude protein, crude fat, triglycerides, and cholesterol content between eggs from the different breeds, but these eggs were distinct in terms of the amino acid, fatty acid, and volatile flavor compound profiles. Moreover, the differences in amino acid and fatty acid profiles might contribute to the specific flavor of TS eggs. Evaluation results indicated that TS egg whites may be suitable as a protein source for premature infants and young children under three years old and TS egg yolks could be considered a beneficial dietary lipid source due to their potential anti-cardiovascular properties. Additionally, TS whole eggs could serve as a valuable source of selenium (Se), molybdenum (Mo), zinc (Zn), and phosphorus (P) for adults aged 18 to 65. However, TS and CB eggs showed inferior Haugh units, eggshell quality, and essential amino acid compositions for older children, adolescents, and adults. These findings provide a better insight into the health benefits of TS eggs and contribute to the breeding and nutrition regulation of TS breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Molting is induced in commercial laying hens to rejuvenate the reproductive system and increase egg production. However, this process causes stress and reduces bird health and performance. Methods: The experiment was conducted to study the effect of multi probiotics and vitamin additives on induced molting in 240 ISA Brown hens. Hens were randomly divided into four groups receiving probiotic and vitamin additives (I-IV) during different period of molting. During the whole molting process, the laying performance indexes such as egg laying rate, egg quality, ovary weight and oviduct lengths were measured, and the spleen index, serum immunoglobulin, immune response of NDV and AIV vaccine were monitored. Results: Molted hens resumed 50% egg production in just 37 days, with 1.62% mortality. Egg quality such as egg weight, yolk color, Haugh unit, eggshell strength and protein height were significantly improved. After the second production peak, the reproductive organs and immune organs returned to normal, and the immune antibody titer of NDV vaccine increased significantly. Discussion: Molting with probiotic and vitamin additives improve the laying performance and egg quality, reduce mortality, significantly improve immune function and vaccine titer, and help to enhance disease resistance and maintain production performance of aged laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbohydrates are the main macromolecule of poultry feed (40-70 %), categorized into digestible and indigestible forms. Poultry uses digestible carbohydrates to supply energy. Still, the indigestible part (water-soluble and nonsoluble) has different roles in anatomy, histology, water loss, bacterial microflora, mucosal health, normal secretions, feed transport time, and digestion rate in the gastrointestinal tract. Cereals (like corn), the carbohydrate source in poultry feed, can contain mycotoxins or water-soluble indigestible fibers; thus, some mycotoxin-free commercial products contain insoluble indigestible carbohydrates. In this study, the effect of micronized Lignocelluloses (Under trade name ARBOCEL®) was evaluated on calcium metabolism, eggshell quality, and performance of commercial Hy-Line W-36 layers. The results showed that the product had a good effect on the evaluated factors, but in some cases, there was not any significant effect that compared to other groups. However, it is better to evaluate the impact of using this product in various concentrations, ages, periods, heat-stress conditions, and digestive tract microflora disturbance, which is beyond the aim of this study and can be subject to subsequent researches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of nanoparticles in the industry carries the risk of their release into the environment. Based on the presumption that the primary graphene oxide (GO) toxicity mechanism is reactive oxygen species production in the cell, the question arises as to whether well-known antioxidants can protect the cell or significantly reduce the effects of GO. This study focused on the possible remedial effect of vitamin C in Acheta domesticus intoxicated with GO for whole lives. The reproduction potential was measured at the level of Vitellogenin (Vg) gene expression, Vg protein expression, hatching success, and share of nutrition in the developing egg. There was no simple relationship between the Vg gene's expression and the Vg protein content. Despite fewer eggs laid in the vitamin C groups, hatching success was high, and egg composition did not differ significantly. The exceptions were GO20 and GO20 + Vit. C groups, with a shift in the lipid content in the egg. Most likely, ascorbic acid impacts the level of Vg gene expression but does not affect the production of Vg protein or the quality of eggs laid. Low GO concentration in food did not cause adverse effects, but the relationship between GO toxicity and its concentration should be investigated more thoroughly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: There is a high demand for eggs in developing countries. Poultry feed is expensive; thus, farmers cannot afford to buy commercial feed. Therefore, it is important to explore the qualities of potential new feed materials for egg production. Desmodium tortuosum is a common weed in sub-Saharan Africa. These feed materials can be used for supplementing laying hen diets. Three hundred hens were used for 13 weeks. Two control groups received diet W, based on white corn, or diet Y containing yellow corn. The other groups received a diet based on white corn supplemented with Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour at 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, or 10%. Diets supplemented with Desmodium improved laying performance and yolk color at a reduced feed cost per egg but had no effect on cholesterol content. The inclusion of Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour in a white corn-based diet for laying hens is effective in lowering feed cost, increasing egg production, and improving yolk color. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects on laying performance, egg quality traits, color, and composition of supplementing a white corn-based diet with Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour. Three hundred 32-week-old hens were distributed to 30 pens of 10 hens each and allocated to six dietary treatments (five replicates per treatment) for 13 weeks. Two control groups of 50 hens received one of either diet Y, based on yellow corn, or diet W, based on white corn. The other groups received a diet based on white corn supplemented with Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour at 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, or 10% (diet D). Diet D improved laying performance and yolk color at a reduced feed cost per egg but had no effect on cholesterol content. In conclusion, the inclusion of Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour, in a white corn-based diet, is effective in lowering feed cost, increasing egg production, and improving yolk color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study explored how adding paprika extract to the diet of laying hens affects egg quality and their blood health. We tested two types of hens, Rhode Island Red and Silky Fowl, by giving them either their usual feed or the same feed with paprika extract for 28 days. We stored the eggs at two different temperatures to see how the paprika might influence their quality over time. We found that paprika improved the color of the egg yolks and affected the hens' blood cholesterol levels in different ways depending on the breed. For Silky Fowl hens, more paprika led to higher levels of good cholesterol, while this was not the case for Rhode Island Red hens. Overall, our findings suggest that paprika extract can improve egg quality and influence blood cholesterol, but the effects vary between different breeds of hens. This information could help farmers enhance egg production and nutritional value through dietary adjustments. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of paprika extract supplementation on egg storage and blood biochemical parameters in 63-week-old Rhode Island Red (RIR) and Silky Fowl (SF) hens. The hens were divided into three groups: a control group with a basal diet and two groups receiving the basal diet with paprika extract. The trial lasted 28 days, with egg quality (yolk color and albumen pH) assessed after storing eggs at 25 °C for 21 days. A total of 144 eggs were used in 42 treatments (two breeds, three diets, and seven storage periods) with three eggs examined each (four eggs were used on day 0 and five eggs on day 21). Additionally, the yolk carotenoid content, yolk color, and pH of eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C were compared. Results showed that yolk color fan score (YCFS) decreased with storage, and SF had a higher albumen pH than RIR, with both breeds exhibiting an increase in pH over time. HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and the HDL-C to total cholesterol ratio were significantly influenced by breed, diet, and their interaction. The HDL-C level in SF was affected linearly and quadratically by diet, while no such trend was observed in RIR. The study concluded that paprika extract affects egg quality and blood lipid profiles differently in different breeds, highlighting breed-specific responses to dietary supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The body weight of pullets (i.e., sexually immature chickens) immediately before they start to lay eggs can impact their subsequent egg production, feed intake, and feed efficiency. Therefore, pullets of a particular size may be required to meet performance targets throughout their egg-laying phase. This study evaluated lighting (hours of light/day) and feeding programs during rearing as tools to grow pullets to a designated size. Their performance was then monitored throughout their early egg-laying period. Compared to restricted feeding and shorter lighting/day, ad libitum (ad lib) feeding—or free access to feed—together with longer hours of light/day resulted in higher feed intake and heavier pullets. However, pullets fed ad lib but with fewer hours of light were the first to start to lay eggs. Interestingly, pullets reared with ad lib feeding continued to consume more feed throughout their early egg-laying period. They also produced more eggs, which were heavier than the eggs from hens that, as pullets, had been restricted to lower feed intake during rearing. Hence, lighting and feeding regimens during rearing are practical tools that can achieve specific pullet weight, feed intake, hen weight, egg production, and egg size throughout the early egg-laying period of commercial chickens. As hen body weight (BW) impacts egg weight (EW) and feed efficiency, egg producers prefer pullets of a specific size to enter the egg-laying cycle. Lighting and feeding programs were tested to achieve target Hy-Line Brown pullet BW. Three feeding programs were implemented: ad libitum (ad lib); feeding to achieve breed standard weight for age (BSW); and feeding to achieve 88% BSW (managed). The feeding programs were used with either control lighting (CL: 10 h light/d from 7 weeks of age (WOA)) or reduced lighting (RL: 9 h light/d from 4 WOA). One-hundred and fifty pullets were assigned to each feeding program by lighting treatment during rearing. At 16 WOA, 70 pullets from each treatment during rearing were moved to cages and onto ad libitum feeding under a step-up photoperiod reaching 16 h light/d at 33 WOA. The age and weight of the first egg, hen BW, feed intake (FI), egg production (EP), and EW were measured until 36 WOA. At 16 WOA, pullets reared with ad lib feeding under CL had higher BW and cumulative FI (CFI) compared to ad lib feeding under RL. The latter were the earliest to lay, and the managed pullets under CL were the last to lay. Control lighting and BSW independently generated the heaviest first eggs. At 36 WOA, BW, EW, CFI, and cumulative egg production (CEP) were highest following ad lib feeding during rearing, while rearing under CL generated higher BW and EW but lower CEP than RL. Hence, lighting and feeding programs throughout rearing can regulate pullet growth, FI, and hen performance throughout early lay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Plant extracts contain a series of bio-active ingredients. Particularly, flavonoids exert efficient bio-activity and excellent microbial modulatory capacities, which are considered to be appropriate feed additives in husbandry production. In this study, flavonoids extracted from kudzu leaf (KL) was chosen to investigate their promotive effects on the productive performance and egg quality of layer hens. The results indicate that the kudzu leaf flavonoid (KLF) supplement significantly proliferated probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium sp. and Lactobacillus sp., which may have further interacted with hypothalamus genes, thus decreasing the deformity rate while increasing eggshell strength in the finishing phase. The findings indicate that KLF could be used as an effective feed additive for prolonging laying rates during the late-laying stage and may further improve feed efficiency, thus lowering costs. (1) Background: Improving feed efficiency and the vitality of the reproductive system in the late stage of the egg-laying period is of great significance for prolonging the egg-laying cycle and improving egg quality. In the present study, a new flavonoid, which was extracted from kudzu leaf, was chosen to investigate its effects on the productive performance and egg quality of late-laying hens. (2) Methods: A total of 360 500-day-old Hy-Line Brown layer hens were randomly divided into a control treatment group (no KLF supplementation), and groups that received 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1.0% KLF supplement treatments. Each treatment contained 6 replicates, with 10 hens in each replicate. Productive performance metrics, including the daily egg production, egg weight, the number of deformed eggs, egg quality, egg density, egg shape index, eggshell strength, yolk color, and the Haugh unit, were meticulously recorded for each replicate. Furthermore, microbial communities and hypothalamus gene expressions were investigated based on the results of the productive performance and egg quality. (3) Results: KLF supplementation significantly decreased the deformity rate while significantly increasing the eggshell strength in the finishing phase afterward (p < 0.05). Specifically, hens supplemented with 0.6% KLF possessed the lowest deformed egg rate. KLF supplementation significantly increased the relative abundances of Bifidobacterium sp., Blautia sp., Lactococcus sp., and Lactobacillus sp., while significantly decreasing Parasutterella sp. and Escherichia-Shigella sp. (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the interactive analysis showed the hypothalamus gene expression mainly interacted with probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium sp. and Lactobacillus sp., through ribosome biogenesis, nucleocytoplasmic transport, and cAMP signaling pathways. (4) Conclusions: The findings of the present study indicate that KLF supplementation significantly proliferated probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, which may have further interacted with hypothalamus genes, thus decreasing the deformity rate while increasing eggshell strength in the finishing phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Moringa oleifera leaves present enormous potential as an alternative feedstuff for laying hens. The utilisation of the leaves can be improved by exogenous enzymes owing to the presence of non-starch polysaccharides and phytate. Aims: This study evaluated the influence of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOL) in diets supplemented with xylanase and phytase on laying hen performance and egg quality at peak production. Methods: In total, 288 Dekalb White laying hens (32 weeks old) were distributed in a completely randomised design, following a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement (with or without MOL × 4 enzyme supplementations). Each treatment comprised six repetitions, each containing six hens. The control diet was based on ground corn and soybean meal, and the treatment diets were supplemented with 5% MOL, followed by three enzyme additives (xylanase, phytase and a xylanase + phytase blend). Key results: The enzyme supplementation in MOL diets positively influenced egg production (P = 0.012), egg weight (P = 0.021) and egg mass (P = 0.009). The birds offered xylanase-supplemented diets had higher feed intakes (P = 0.015) than did those fed other diets. Moringa oleifera increased the albumen height (P < 0.001) and Haugh unit (P < 0.001), whereas MOL and phytase improved eggshell thickness (P < 0.001) and the candling score (P = 0.049), compared with treatments without phytase supplementation. MOL and enzyme supplementation improved yolk colour intensity (L, A and R parameters) and decreased plasma total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol concentrations. The inclusion of 5% MOL in diets did not impair laying performance. However, when MOL diets were supplemented with exogenous enzymes, there was an increase in egg weight. Conclusions: MOL can be included at 5% in layer diets without affecting performance. When used in combination with xylanase and phytase, they improve performance, intensify yolk colour, and improve shell thickness, candling score, as well as serum biochemical profile. Implications: These findings suggest that the combination of dietary MOL + xylanase + phytase can improve performance and egg quality in laying hens at peak production. The use of alternative foods, as well as additives that improve the use of these foods for birds, is an area of study that is constantly growing owing to the constant search for ingredients that make feed cheaper. Several studies have already used Moringa oleifera as an alternative food in poultry diets; however, studies that combine this food with exogenous enzymes, additives that can improve its use and bring benefits to the animals' health, are still almost non-existent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. This study was conducted to determine the effects of graded levels of phytase on the performance, egg quality and gut health of white laying hens. 2. Treatments consisted of a negative control (NC) diet containing 0.14% available phosphorus (avP), positive control (PC) diet containing 0.35% avP provided via dicalcium phosphate (DCP) and DCP replaced in the PC by with three graded levels of phytase derived from Komagataella phaffii at 500 (PC-500), 750 (PC-750) and 1000 (PC-1000) FTU/kg which provided 0.176%, 0.188% and 0.200% of avP, respectively. 3. Egg production, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and jejunal morphometry were negatively affected in NC-fed birds (p < 0.05). Considering the whole period, birds fed a diet supplemented with graded levels of phytase shared the same egg production and feed intake levels with PC birds (p < 0.05). Feed conversion ratio was significantly lowered by 4.9%, 1.6% and 7.6% in hens fed on diets PC-500, PC-750 and PC-1000, respectively compared to those fed the PC (p < 0.05). 4. Neither of the dietary treatments affected cracked eggs, dirty eggs, eggshell breaking strength and eggshell thickness. Dietary supplementation of phytase significantly increased villus surface area by 15%, 36% and 40% in PC-500, PC-750 and PC-1000 birds, respectively compared to PC (p < 0.05). 5. A significant increase in lactobacillus count was observed in line with increasing the level of phytase (p < 0.05). Dietary treatments had no effect on the caecal coliform or aerobic populations. Furthermore, phytase supplementation significantly increased the concentrations of total caecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA; p < 0.01). 6. In conclusion, along with improving performance parameters, the inclusion of phytase in laying hen diets can ameliorate intestinal morphology and stimulate caecal microflora and increase SCFA concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of phytases from Pichia kudriavzevii FSMP-Y17 yeast was enhanced by optimization of the fermentation variables under submerged fermentation conditions. Maximum 3.67 U/mL of phytases was produced using 2.5% orange peel flour as a substrate, at pH 5.0 and temperature 50°C, by supplementing fermentation medium with 0.2% (wt/vol) galactose as carbon source and 0.2% (wt/vol) ammonium nitrate as a nitrogen source. Addition of sodium phytate to the production medium, however, did not cause any enhancing effect on phytase production by P. kudriavzevii FSMP-Y17 under submerged fermentation. The yeast enzyme purified to near homogeneity in three steps (ammonium sulphate precipitation, anion exchange chromatography and gel filtration) was found showing thermostability (from 40 to 70°C, with highest activity at 55°C) and stable at acidic pH (from 4.0 to 7.0, with highest activity at pH from 5.0 to 6.0). The purified enzyme was added to the diets of the broilers. The diets enriched with yeast phytase showed increased feed intake in the birds, while food conversion rate was lowered. The phytase supplementation caused better phosphorus retention in the birds consequently resulting in enhanced growth of the broilers. The augmented diets also showed improved egg production and egg quality in the hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of yacon root extracts (YREs) on productive performance and health of laying hens. Methods: Six hundred 30-week-old Xiaoshan Chicken layers were divided into 5 groups, control group, antibiotic positive control group, and 3 YREs treatment groups. In a 9-wk feeding experiment, at the end of wk 3, 6, and 9, twenty eggs were collected from each replicate to measure egg qualities. At the end of wk 9, three hen serum samples, and 5 hen cecal content samples were collected from each replicate. Results: Compared to the control group, 0.8%, 1.6%, and 2.4% YREs treatments could increase hens’ daily feed intake, and YREs supplementation affected daily feed intake in linear manner. YREs did not change egg size, but 0.8% and 2.4% YREs changed egg shape by decreasing the egg shape index and sphericity, and 0.8% YREs tended to improve the eggshell breaking strength. Diet supplemented with 1.6% YREs might decrease yolk color grade but optimize the pH of thick egg white in fresh egg; moreover, 1.6% and 2.4% YREs might be helpful for eggs to inhibit water loss during storage, and YREs supplementation affected water loss rate in linear manner. 2.4% YREs could decrease the serum lactate dehydrogenases (LDH) level, and YREs supplemental levels linearly affected serum LDH content. Finally, YREs could enrich the diversity of intestinal microbiota of hens fed with 0.8% and be beneficial for the relative abundance of phylum Bacteroidota and Halobacterota; 2.4% YREs might increase the abundance of phylum Actinobacteriota and genus Bifidobacterium, while decrease genus Bacteroides; YREs supplemental levels affected the abundance of phylum Actinobacteriota, and genera Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides in linear manner. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with YREs could affect egg quality, protect the health of organs and exhibit prebiotic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the zootechnical performance of 192 laying quails, receiving diets with different levels of crude protein (18 and 19%) and metabolizable energy (2,500, 2,600, 2,700 and 2,800 kcal/kg), in a 2 x 4 factorial arrangement. The experiment consists of four experimental periods of 28 days each, where feed intake (g/bird), feed conversion (by dozens of eggs and egg mass), laying rate, weight and mass of eggs and indices of egg quality (yolk, shell and albumen content, shell thickness, Haugh unit). Results indicated that reducing feed energy levels to 2,500 and 2,600 kcal/kg increased feed intake (P < 0.05). However, reducing protein levels to 18% did not change (P > 0.05) feed intake. No differences (P > 0.05) were observed in laying rate, feed conversion per dozen eggs and egg mass, and egg quality indices, in relation to energy or protein levels. There were no interactions between dietary energy and protein levels. In conclusion, the reduction of metabolizable energy levels to 2,500 kcal/kg and crude protein to 18% in diets for laying quails, from 52 to 68 weeks of age, is a viable alternative to reduce production costs, without harming performance and egg quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Induced development of haploid embryos (H) with only paternal (androgenesis) or maternal (gynogenesis) chromosomes requires irradiation of eggs before fertilization or activation of eggs with irradiated spermatozoa, respectively. To provide doubled haploids (DHs), androgenetic and gynogenetic haploid zygotes need to be subjected to the thermal or high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) shock to suppress the first mitotic cleavage and to double paternal or maternal haploid set of chromosomes. Androgenesis and mitotic gynogenesis (mito-gynogenesis) result in the generation of fully homozygous individuals in a single generation. DHs have been utilized in selective breeding programs, in studies concerning the phenotypic consequences of recessive alleles and to evaluate the impact of sex chromosomes on the early ontogeny. Moreover, the use of DHs for the NGS approach radically improves de novo the assembly of the genomes. However, reduced survival of the doubled haploids limits the wide application of androgenotes and gynogenotes. The high mortality of DHs may be only partly explained by the expression of recessive traits. Observed inter-clutch variation in the survival of DHs developing in eggs originating from different females make it necessary to take a closer look at the quality of the eggs used during induced androgenesis and gynogenesis. Moreover, the developmental competence of eggs that are subjected to irradiation before fertilization in order to deactivate maternal chromosomes when undergoing induced androgenesis and exposed to the physical shock after fertilization that leads to the duplication of the zygotes in both mito-gynogenesis and androgenesis may be also altered as irradiation and sublethal values of temperatures and hydrostatic pressure are considered as harmful for the cell organelles and biomolecules. Here, recently provided results concerning the morphological, biochemical, genomic, and transcriptomic characteristics of fish eggs showing high and low competence for androgenesis and mito-gynogenesis are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Hydrobiology is the property of Editorial Department of Journal of Hydrobiology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Eggs are among the most nutritious foods, but they are perishable. Immediately after they are laid, ageing processes begin in shell eggs, altering their chemical, physical and functional properties. This study aimed to determine the effect of storage temperature on the shelf life of hen eggs according to changes in some important physical properties (weight, pH, Haugh Unit, Albumen Index, and Yolk Index). The studied temperatures were selected as possible refrigerator and room temperatures (10, 20 and 30°C). It was revealed that temperature significantly influenced egg quality, with the most significant effects observed in the Haugh unit and pH due to weight changes. The highest quality loss occurred at 30°C. The activation energies for each quality parameter were determined using the Arrhenius equation. The pH of the fresh egg was 7.6 ± 0.1 and increased to over 8.5 – 9.0 during storage, depending on the temperature. Haugh unit, albumen index, and yolk index decreased, and the area of both yolk and albumen increased during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tasmanian Atlantic salmon broodstock may be conditioned in flow‐through (FT) systems where water quality fluctuates and temperatures approach their upper limit of thermal tolerance, or in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) where conditions are comparatively cool and stable. The impact of broad conditioning approach on the molecular cargo of salmon eggs has never been explored in dynamic commercial settings. Therefore, this study aimed to characterise the reproductive features of broodstock conditioned using different commercial approaches and determine whether the fatty acid (FA) profiles of muscle, oocytes and eggs varied between groups during vitellogenesis and at stripping. The collective conditioning approach had a marked impact on the somatic and reproductive dynamics of female salmon broodstock, and the eggs produced by each group of fish were fundamentally different in terms of their FA composition. Of particular note is the increased maternal investment of saturated FAs (mg.g−1) and monounsaturated FAs (percent and mg.g−1) by FT‐based eggs, and the higher n3 polyunsaturated FA (percent and mg.g−1), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, percent and mg.g−1), arachidonic acid (ARA, percent), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, percent), n3:n6 ratio and ARA:EPA ratio of RAS‐based eggs. These metrics combined with the apparently higher prevalence of neural development and survival of RAS embryos suggest that RAS eggs were of higher quality. On the other hand, there is evidence to suggest that FT broodstock attempt to prepare their offspring for a (presumably) challenging early life environment by producing larger eggs that are proportionally rich in short‐chain FAs and contain a higher total quantity of FAs per egg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] This study investigated the effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) at different levels on production performance, egg quality, egg yolk CLA content, serum biochemical indexes and antioxidant properties of Hy-Line Brown laying hens in late laying period. [Method] A total of 300 Hy-Line Brown laying hens at the age of 63 weeks with similar laying rate and body weight were randomly divided into control group and 1%, 2%, 3% and 4% CLA supplementation groups, with 6 replicates in each group and 10 chickens in each replicate.Chickens in the control group were fed a basal diet +4% soybean oil, while the chickens in experimental groups were fed the diets supplemented with 1%, 2%, 3% and 4% CLA to replace same amounts of soybean oil, respectively.The pre-feeding period was 7 days and the feeding period was 42 days.At the end of the experiment, the production performance, egg quality, yolk CLA content, serum biochemical indexes and antioxidant capacity of laying hens in each group were measured. [Result] 1) Compared with CK group, dietary supplementation of 2% and 4% CLA significantly decreased average daily feed intake (P<0.05). 2) Dietary supplementation of 1% CLA significantly increased eggshell thickness (P<0.05), supplementation of 3% and 4% CLA significantly decreased yolk weight (P<0.05), supplementation of CLA at different levels significantly decreased yolk color (P<0.05), while supplementation of 1%-3% CLA significantly increased yolk CLA content (P<0.05). 3) Dietary supplementation of 2% CLA significantly decreased serum total cholesterol (T-CHO) content (P<0.05), supplementation of 2%-4% CLA significantly decreased serum low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) content (P<0.05), supplementation of 1% and 2% CLA significantly increased serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) content (P<0.05), supplementation of CLA at different levels significantly increased serum estradiol (E2) content (P<0.05), supplementation of 1% CLA significantly increased serum insulin (INS) content (P<0.05), and supplementation of CLA at different levels significantly decreased yolk T-CHO content (P<0.05).4) Dietary supplementation of 2%-4% CLA significantly increased serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (P<0.05), supplementation of 1% and 3% CLA significantly increased serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (P<0.05), supplementation of 1% CLA significantly increased serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity (P<0.05), supplementation of 2% and 4% CLA significantly decreased serum malondialdehyde (MDA) content (P<0.05), while supplementation of CLA at different levels significantly increased serum catalase (CAT) activity (P<0.05). [Conclusion] Under the conditions of this experiment, the addition of 2% CLA to diets of Hy-Line Brown laying hens in the late laying period significantly reduced average daily feed intake, improved serum biochemical indicators, significantly increased egg yolk CLA content, and improved antioxidant performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the effect of mineral mix-enriched essential oil (MMEO) on egg production, antibody titer, egg quality, and yolk fatty acid of laying hens. A total of 1680 Lohman Brown laying hens, aged 31 weeks, were randomly divided into two dietary treatment groups. Each group consisted of 6 replicates, with 140 hens per treatment. The hens were fed either a basal diet (CON) or a diet supplemented with 0.25% mineral mix-enriched essential oil (MMEO) for a period of 6 weeks. Egg production and feed efficiency were calculated on every week. On days 21 and 42 of treatments, two eggs per replicate were randomly collected to determine the physical and chemical quality. The antioxidant activity and fatty acid profile of one egg per replicate were analysed at the end of week 6. The results showed that dietary treatment with MMEO increased egg production and feed efficiency compared to the control group. The inclusion increased yolk weight at week 3. However, MMEO supplementation did not affect the physical quality of eggs at week 6. In addition, dietary MMEO supplementation increased the antioxidant activity of yolk at week 6. On contrast, feeding MMEO did not affect the fatty acid profile of yolk. In conclusion, supplementation of mineral mix-enriched essential oil improved laying hens' productivity and antioxidant activity of yolk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Probiotics have beneficial effects on improving egg quality, but there is little research about the effect of probiotics on metabolite composition, and the mechanisms are not yet fully understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential mechanisms by which compound Bacillus improves egg quality and metabolite composition. A total of 20,000 Jingfen No. 6 laying hens at 381 d old were randomly divided into two treatments: control group with a basal diet, and the basal diet with 5 × 108 CFU/kg compound Bacillus supplementation (Ba) group. The trial lasted eight weeks. The results showed that compound Bacillus improved the gloss and strength of eggshells and reduced the ratio of sand-shell eggs by 23.8%. Specifically, the effective layer of eggshell was thicker and its calcite column was closely connected. Compound Bacillus increased the contents of beneficial fatty acids in the egg yolk, and lipids and lipid-like molecules in the albumen (P

The study investigated the effects of violin note B7 (Violin), double bass note E1 (Bass) and Mozart’s Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, K. 448 (Mozart), on laying hens in terms of the production performance, egg quality and physiological characteristics. One hundred and sixty 600-day-old laying hens (ISA Brown) were randomly categorised into four groups with four replicates (10 hens/ replicate), and exposed to specific sound frequency for 12 weeks. The results indicated that Violin group presented significantly higher thick albumin height, Haugh unit and yolk index compared to the control group (p

AbstractThis study evaluates the effects of dietary Chinese herb ultrafine powder (CHUP) supplementation in late-phase laying hens on the quality and nutritional values of eggs. A total of 576 Xinyang black-feather laying hens (300-day-old) were randomly allocated into eight groups for a 120-day feeding trial. Each group contained eight replicates with nine hens per replicate. The experimental groups included the control (basal diet) and different levels of CHUP groups (details in ‘Materials and methods’). The results showed that the eggshell strength was increased (p