Effects of xylanase enzyme supplementation to corn/wheat-based diets on performance and egg quality in laying hens

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the effects of xylanase supplementation of corn/wheat-based diets on the performance and egg quality of laying hens. At 52 wk of age, 180 White Leghorn LSL laying hens were fed 15 diets, consisting of five corn:wheat ratios and three levels of enzyme. None of the treatments affected performance or egg quality, except for egg yolk index and egg yolk color. The egg yolk color was improved by the increase in dietary corn level. It is concluded that wheat can be used instead of corn as an energy feedstuff in laying hen diets. Key words: Egg quality, laying hen, performance, xylanase