Eggshell quality

Eggshell – the natural packaging

Eggs are truly one of nature’s wonders. They are rich in nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements in addition to protein and healthy fats. All wrapped up in an eggshell to keep these important nutrients safe.

The challenge of strong eggshells

Modern egg production poses many challenges on the quality of eggshells. Automatic egg collection and packing systems, transport to their destination, and not least the expectations of consumers on uniform quality - the demands on eggshell quality are high. The quality is evaluated on the basis of colour, shape, surface properties, cleanliness, soundness and breaking strength.

Numerous factors have an influence on eggshell quality. First of all, the health status of the hens themselves is often decisive for the quality. The development of the shell gland in pullets, gut health and age all play a role. Diseases, such as Infectious Bronchitis, Egg Drop Syndrome, Avian Influenza or Newcastle Disease, also have an impact on eggshell quality. Attention must be paid to the diets of laying hens. The diet must contain sufficient vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorous, manganese and vitamin D3. Good management practice also contributes to good eggshell quality. This includes nest design, stocking density, water quality, stress, heat stress and so on.

Eggs that do not fulfil the criteria for eggshell quality are rejected at market, causing substantial losses to commercial egg producers.

The solution to strong eggshells

It is important to get the health management in the poultry house right. Actively supporting the health status with vaccination against disease combined with good management practice, such as correct lighting, good water quality, etc. is the way forward.

Layer feed formulation is also of utmost importance to maintain good shell quality. It is essential to get the balance of calcium and phosphorous right as each eggshell contains almost two grams of calcium, meaning that the daily intake should lie at around four grams. In addition to dietary supply, the layers utilise calcium from their bones to form eggshells. Using feed enzymes, such as Enzy Phostar, the focused phytase by Kaesler Nutrition, is beneficial as they increase the digestibility of phosphorous and calcium. More nutrients are available to the birds. Xylanase and β-glucanase (in Enzy Carboplus by Kaesler Nutrition) lower the level of viscosity in the intestine.

Kaesler Nutrition further offers a wide range of products for application via drinking water. The Lovit portfolio comprises nutrient combinations to support the formation of stable eggshells. The range also includes combinations of electrolytes and trace elements to support good management practice, e.g. against stress and heat stress. Targeted, fast-acting and easy to use. The ideal partner for good management in poultry houses.

Our products for strong eggshells

Drinking Water Applications

For short-term, targeted supplementation with selected nutrients to maintain poultry health.

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Enzymes

Using feed enzymes is essential to improve nutrient digestibility and cost efficiency.

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