High calcium and phosphorus levels boost egg quality and bone health in layers.
The study looked at how different levels of calcium and phosphorus in the diet of New Yangzhou layers affected their egg production, egg quality, and bone health. They divided 600 hens into four groups with varying calcium and phosphorus levels in their feed. The hens that received high levels of both calcium and phosphorus had the highest laying rate, weight gain, and eggshell quality. Their hormone levels were also better compared to hens on diets with lower calcium and phosphorus levels. Overall, the best production performance, egg quality, and bone metabolism were seen when the diet contained 3.50% calcium and 0.32% phosphorus in an 11:1 ratio.