New research explores phytase, dacitic tuff breccia supplementation to maintain eggshell quality in older hens

Supplementation with phytase and dacitic tuff breccia (DTB) has variable effects on eggshell quality, egg production and other parameters in older hens, according to research at North Carolina State University.

The poultry industry is increasingly focused on extending the productive lifespan of laying hens beyond 100 weeks to enhance welfare, sustainability and profitability. A major challenge in achieving this goal is the age-related decline in eggshell quality, largely due to reduced calcium absorption.

“Simply increasing dietary calcium is often insufficient, as optimal eggshell formation also relies on a balance of other essential minerals,” said Ishab Poudel, PhD, North Carolina State University, the study’s principal investigator. DTB, a natural source of trace minerals, and phytase, an enzyme that improves nutrient availability, have demonstrated potential to support egg quality in older hens.

This study evaluated early DTB supplementation, beginning at 50 weeks, with or without phytase, to assess its effects on egg production, eggshell quality, skeletal integrity and economic outcomes through 100 weeks of age. A total of 720 hens were assigned to diets containing varying levels of DTB and phytase.

Results indicated that phytase alone had limited effects on egg production but significantly improved bone strength, supporting skeletal health during extended laying cycles. DTB, particularly at 0.25%, helped maintain egg production during late lay without negatively affecting feed efficiency or egg quality.

Although eggs naturally declined in quality with age, neither DTB nor phytase exacerbated this trend. Economically, overall feed costs and egg income were similar across treatments, though hens receiving 0.25% DTB without phytase achieved the highest egg income during late lay.

Collectively, these findings demonstrate that DTB can be included in late-phase layer diets without adverse effects and may enhance performance under specific conditions. Phytase remains critical for maintaining bone mineralization and strength during extended lay, while combining DTB and phytase did not consistently yield additive benefits.

In the long term, this research provides valuable insights for developing nutritional strategies that support extended laying cycles exceeding 100 weeks.

“By clarifying the roles of trace minerals and phytase in mineral metabolism, skeletal integrity and production performance, the study offers a foundation for designing diets that maintain hen health and productivity over prolonged production periods, contributing to greater sustainability and profitability in commercial egg production,” Poudel said.

The research was funded by USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation. Click here to view the industry summary.

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