Comparative research of housing systems on egg production and quality in layer hens

Abstract:

Consumer preference for cage-free eggs is growing in India, but do alternative housing systems actually produce better eggs? This research compared conventional battery cages, deep-litter houses, and free-range paddocks for their effects on egg production, egg quality, and bird welfare indicators using 450 BV-300 layer hens (150 per system) over a full laying cycle (20–72 weeks) at Dr. PDKV, Akola, during 2022–2023. Cage hens laid 278 eggs hen^-1 year^-1, 7.4% more than deep-litter (259) and 14.5% more than free-range (243). However, free-range eggs had heavier yolks (17.8 g vs. 15.3 g), stronger shells (4.21 kg cm^-2 vs. 3.47), and higher Haugh units (82.6 vs. 74.1). Feed conversion ratio was best in cages (2.08 kg feed per kg egg). Feather score and foot-pad condition were significantly better in free-range birds. These results highlight a clear trade-off: cages maximise output per bird, while free-range improves egg quality and welfare metrics.