Effects of Trimethylamine Concentrations in Hatching Eggs on Chick Quality in Dwarf Hens

Microbial contamination of hatching eggs often leads to reduced hatchability and poor chick quality. As trimethylamine (TMA), a metabolite derived from dietary choline, has antimicrobial properties, increasing yolk TMA contents may increase bacterial resistance to eggs; however, the effects of TMA concentrations on chick quality remain unknown. Hence, this study was conducted to determine the effects of yolk TMA concentrations on the hatchability and chick quality of dwarf hens with different FMO3 genotypes. Hens (n = 140) were divided into control and experimental groups; the latter received choline chloride (2800 mg/kg) to elevate their yolk TMA concentrations. The TMA content, Pasgar score, hatchability, and post-hatching performance were evaluated. The results showed that choline supplementation significantly increased TMA concentrations in hens with AT and TT genotypes. Higher yolk TMA concentrations (≥4 µg/g) correlated with improved Pasgar scores and reduced abnormalities in vitality, navel, and yolk sac absorption. Hatchability peaked at 6.49 µg/g TMA, suggesting a threshold effect. Although the growth rate remained unaffected, chick mortality decreased in the high-TMA group. Therefore, moderate TMA concentrations can enhance egg antimicrobial defenses and improve reproductive performance. This strategy provides a biologically grounded alternative to traditional chemical disinfection in hatcheries.