Optimizing the health of poultry layers

Publication date: 12/09/2022
Extent: 58 pages

Contributions by: Yuko Sato, Iowa State University, USA

Chapter synopsis: Commercial egg production is an important part of poultry production worldwide. Table egg production is facing times of change and transition with focus on animal well-being. Several major global trends have impacted egg production in many ways: 1) housing systems, 2) ban on beak treatments, 3) increasing focus on sustainability, and 4) consumer demand for specialty eggs. Although the majority of the US egg production still remains in cages, increasing numbers of table egg layer producers transition into cage-free/aviary type production or organic egg production, which involves raising birds cage-free with outdoor access or free-range. The choice of the management and housing system is up to the poultry producer and depends on regulations, personal preference, financial returns, and environmental options. Producers are constantly looking at different challenges with egg production based on customer preference, in which case these alternative systems demands better and different management skills in order to keep birds in good health and productivity.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2022.0104.12