Forming a high-quality eggshell requires a substantial amount of calcium, delivered via feed. As hens age, however, their ability to utilise calcium decreases significantly, while their egg weight rises. Be prepared with additional measures to help older hens maintain a good eggshell quality.
Poor eggshell quality leads to a greater number of second-grade eggs, with dirty or cracked shells and sub-optimal breaking strength.
Second grade eggs can’t command the higher prices of first grade eggs, impacting farm revenues with a lower return on the labour needed for egg collecting.
Boosting older hens’ intake of calcium and nutrients is an effective way to help them maintain good eggshell quality.
