Modifying Protein in Feed

Protein and amino acid (AA) nutrition for laying hens has become increasingly precise to ensure that pullet growth, hen maintenance, and egg production and quality are optimized. Bird AA requirements, once considered only on a total dietary AA basis, are now looked at on a digestible basis and in relationship to other AA. The goal is for no AA to be deficient in the diet or fed in excess of requirements, which can lead to negative consequences. Dietary protein and AA requirements of mature birds decrease with age for both laying hens and other commercially relevant avian species (e.g., ducks and quail). However, good quality protein ingredients (either conventional or organically approved in organic systems), with consistent composition and low cost (e.g., soybean meal), are needed throughout the life of the bird. Optimizing protein and AA nutrition is critical for maintaining adequate egg production, size, and quality for laying hens.