Further evaluation of nonfeed removal methods for molting programs

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Science
• Avian Nutrition

Background:

• Induced molting is a common practice to rejuvenate laying hen flocks.
• Traditional feed removal methods can cause significant stress and welfare concerns.
• Alternative non-feed removal strategies are sought to improve hen welfare and maintain productivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of various non-feed removal dietary strategies with traditional feed removal for induced molting in laying hens.
• To evaluate the impact of different feed ingredients on molting performance and post-molt production.

Main Methods:

• 576 Dekalb White hens were assigned to 8 dietary treatments, including 10-day feed removal and 28-day non-feed removal diets.
• Non-feed removal diets featured corn, wheat middlings (WM), corn gluten feed, distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), or combinations.
• Production performance and physiological parameters were monitored for 40 weeks post-molt.

Main Results:

• Feed removal and most non-feed removal diets (WM, corn, corn gluten feed, WM:corn) effectively reduced egg production.
• Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) resulted in less reduction in egg production.
• Body weight loss varied, with feed removal causing the most significant loss.
• No significant differences in post-molt egg production, egg quality, or feed efficiency were observed among treatments.
• Ovary and oviduct weights, heterophil:lymphocyte ratios, and social behaviors were comparable between feed removal and some non-feed removal groups.

Conclusions:

• Wheat middlings, corn, corn gluten feed, and WM:corn diets are effective non-feed removal methods for inducing molting in laying hens.
• These alternative diets offer comparable results to feed removal without the associated welfare concerns.
• Non-feed removal strategies provide a viable option for sustainable and welfare-friendly induced molting practices.