Minimum phosphorus requirements for laying hen feed formulations

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Poultry Science

Background:

• Determining optimal nonphytate phosphorus (NPP) levels in laying hen diets is crucial for efficient nutrient utilization and sustainable egg production.
• Existing research, including a 2012 meta-analysis and subsequent studies, provides data on NPP requirements and the impact of phytase supplementation.

Approach:

• A comprehensive review of scientific literature was conducted to synthesize optimal nonphytate phosphorus (NPP) concentrations for laying hens.
• Studies involving variations in mineral phosphorus sources and phytase supplementation were analyzed, considering different production periods.

Key Points:

• No performance or eggshell quality benefits were observed when NPP exceeded 2.2 g/kg without phytase.
• While bone quality data is limited, no consistent negative effects were found at this NPP level.
• Phytase supplementation increases phytate degradation but its effects on performance and bone traits in laying hens are less conclusive, potentially due to adequate NPP supply.

Conclusions:

• A dietary concentration of 2.2 g NPP/kg feed appears sufficient for laying hens across different production stages.
• Reducing NPP levels is feasible with phytase addition, though precise reduction values depend on feed phytate content and phytase dosage, requiring further research.
• Shifting to a digestible phosphorus system, similar to broilers, could enhance phosphorus precision and sustainability in laying hen nutrition.