The cost of feed for laying hens typically makes up 60% to 70% of total production expenses, with feed waste accounting for 3% to 8% or even more of the total feed consumed—sometimes exceeding 10%. This highlights the importance of feed conservation in improving the economic efficiency of poultry farming. By minimizing waste and optimizing feeding practices, farmers can significantly reduce costs while maintaining or even increasing egg production.
First, when selecting breeder hens, it is advisable to choose breeds that are lightweight but have a high feed conversion rate. Medium-weight birds are generally more efficient in converting feed into eggs compared to larger ones, which tend to consume more feed without a proportional increase in egg output.
Second, debeaking chicks at 6–9 days old not only helps prevent feather pecking and cannibalism but also reduces feed consumption. On average, this practice can save about 3.5 grams of feed per day during the growing phase and 5.5 grams during the laying period, along with an additional 12 grams saved in egg production.
Third, raising hens in cages offers several advantages. It provides a stable environment, reduces physical activity, and allows for higher stocking densities, all of which contribute to lower energy expenditure and reduced feed intake. Studies suggest that cage systems can save between 20% and 30% of feed compared to traditional floor housing.
Fourth, maintaining an optimal temperature is crucial for feed efficiency. Laying hens perform best in temperatures between 13°C and 21°C. In cold weather, when temperatures drop below 8°C, each hundred hens may consume an extra 1.5 kg of feed daily, yet their egg production declines. Similarly, in hot conditions, feed intake decreases, leading to lower egg output. Therefore, proper climate control is essential to both maintain productivity and reduce feed costs. For example, warming the coop in winter can save approximately 3.1 grams of excess protein per chicken per day.
Fifth, ensuring high-quality feed is vital. Moldy or poor-quality feed not only lacks nutritional value but also leads to significant waste. Feed should not be too finely ground, as this can cause dusting and make it harder for chickens to eat efficiently.
Sixth, adjusting the feed composition according to seasons is important. During colder months, increasing the energy content of the feed (to around 65–70% of total feed) supports better heat retention and performance. In summer, reducing the energy content can help prevent overfeeding and improve digestion.
Seventh, using alternative protein sources such as insect meal, fish by-products, or plant-based materials can help cut feed costs. These ingredients, when properly processed, can replace part of the more expensive fishmeal or soybean meal in the diet.
Eighth, adding feed additives like methionine, lysine, or vitamin B12 can enhance protein utilization and reduce the need for high-protein feeds. For instance, adding 0.1% methionine can boost protein efficiency by 2–3%, while lysine can reduce crude protein levels by 3–4%.
Ninth, supplementing feed with vitamin C has proven benefits. Adding 50 grams of vitamin C per ton of feed can increase egg production by over 10% and save more than 15% in feed.
Tenth, providing grit once a week aids in digestion by helping chickens grind their food in the gizzard, thereby improving feed absorption and reducing waste. This practice can increase digestibility by 3–8%.
Eleventh, optimizing feed presentation is key. Feeder design should allow easy access without excessive spillage. Filling feeders to one-third of their height helps minimize waste. Research shows that filling to two-thirds results in 12% waste, while filling to one-half reduces it to 5%, and to one-third brings it down to just 2%.
Twelfth, ensuring a constant supply of clean water is essential. Hens require about 340 ml of water per egg produced. Water shortages can lead to a 30% drop in egg production.
Thirteenth, regular deworming is necessary to prevent parasites from consuming nutrients meant for the chickens. A deworming schedule every 30–60 days helps maintain health and feed efficiency.
Fourteenth, removing excess roosters is important, as they consume 20–25% more feed than hens. Keeping a ratio of 1 rooster to 15–20 hens ensures efficient breeding without unnecessary feed waste.
Finally, culling low-yielding hens—typically 10–30% of the flock—can significantly reduce feed costs without a major impact on overall egg production. This practice helps maintain a productive and efficient laying flock.
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