Effect of feeding proposals on egg production, egg size and egg quality in commercial layers

Abstract

In this study, the effects of feeding Propohs on egg production, egg size and egg quality were determined. The parameters of egg quality examined were weight (egg, yolk, albumin, shell); pH (yolk, albumin); and shell thickness using a micrometer screw gauge. A total of 180, 75-week old Bovans Brown layers were divided into four groups of 45 hens each. The hens were randomly divided into four treatment groups namely TO, Tl, T2 and T3, in which Propolis was administered at 0ml, 0.5ml, 1ml, and 1.5ml per litre of drinking water respectively in a completely randomised design (CRD). The separation of the hens in the pen was done using chicken mesh wire. The study was conducted for a period of 5 weeks. One way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was done using SPSS version 16 to determine the effects of the different treatments. Separation of means was done using Duncan's multiple range test. In the analysis of egg production and egg size, the results showed significant differences among the treatments. The hens given 1ml of Propolis per litre of water laid more eggs, 39(average of 45 hens over a period of 5 weeks) compared to the other treatments. Heavier eggs were laid by hens given 0.5 ml Propolis per litre of water, 68g (average of 45 hens over a period of 5 weeks). Egg quality results reveal that Propolis increased shell thickness (P<0.05). In conclusion. Propolis increased egg production, egg size and shell thickness. It is recommended that further studies be done to determine the quality of Propohs in terms of chemical properties, obtained from different tree species in Zambia and determine the best source of the locally produced Propolis.