Effect of Age on Egg Quality of Lakenvelder Hens Kept Under Extensive Rearing Conditions

Abstract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of age of Lakenvelder hens kept under extensive rearing conditions on the quality of eggs obtained. The research material consisted of eggs obtained from Lakenvelder hens. The hens were kept in a barn on the litter with the possibility to use the free-range area and to collect weed. The birds were fed the same feed throughout the study period. From each group, 100 eggs were collected at 36 and 52 weeks of age. A total of 200 eggs were examined for physical and chemical properties. The study showed an increase with age of shell weight and yolk percentage in the egg as well as shape index of shell thickness and yolk percentage in the egg. The quality of protein, total cholesterol and PUFA n-6 content decreased. The results showed that Lakenvelder hens can be kept in extensive rearing conditions obtain good quality table eggs.