So, you’re curious about the Phytic acid in hen up chicken feed. Or perhaps you’re curious about the Omega 3 content or calcium content. Either way, read on to learn about the ingredients in this popular chicken feed. What exactly is Phytic acid? How about Omega 3? Are there other additives in it? Let’s take a closer look. After all, you’re raising chickens!
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Phytic acid in hen up chicken feed
The presence of phytic acid or oxalic acid in hen up chicken feed has been linked to lower calcium levels in eggshells. The effect of the two acids was studied using thirty White Leghorn laying hens. The animals were randomly assigned to six groups. Data were collected at the beginning and end of a seven-day feeding period. The researchers found that the addition of either acid reduced eggshell calcium by as much as 10%.
The good news is that phytic acid can be beneficial to the health of chickens. It is said to protect against some cancers and kidney stones. Phytic acid can be reduced in feed ingredients by soaking them overnight. You can also sprout the seeds, which further reduces the phytic acid content. Fermentation is another option that can significantly reduce phytic acid content. All three methods have a positive effect on energy parameters.
Omega 3 in hen up chicken feed
You should be looking for a ration that has high levels of Omega 3 fatty acids for your laying hens. This ration is a mix of oyster shell and limestone, and should be fed to the chickens for at least three weeks. You can also add oats or wheat to their ration, since these contain more linoleic acid. Whole kernels also help develop their gizzards.
Another ingredient in hen up chicken feed is canola oil. It has several benefits, including the ability to increase the number of antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds in chickens. Furthermore, canola oil has been linked to improved human health. It is a good source of omega-6 and modest source of omega-3 fatty acids, which counteracts the natural tendency of chickens to reduce their intake of these nutrients.
Calcium in hen up chicken feed
If you’re not sure what calcium supplement to give your hens, oyster shell is a natural source of calcium. This calcium supplement is easy to digest and can be added to your chickens’ food once a week. Crushed oyster shells also make a great calcium supplement. Make sure to grind them to pea size, as larger particles stay in the chicken’s digestive system for longer. Other calcium supplements include chipped limestone, which is harder for chickens to digest. It can vary in calcium content, depending on where it comes from.
Hens’ peak calcium requirement occurs during their laying cycle. They are most likely to lay their eggs during their first laying cycle. Second, third, and fourth cycles are all much shorter. Between third and fifth laying cycles, hens undergo a molting cycle. The molting cycle replaces the feathers on the hen’s body. Calcium in hen up chicken feed helps them build strong eggshells.
Ingredients in hen up chicken feed
Hen Up (r) Layer Food is made specifically for layers and is the only food your laying hens need after they reach 18 weeks of age. This organic food is free of soy and contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that your chickens need to stay healthy. It also contains organic ingredients and meets USDA standards for purity. It is free of pesticides and fertilizers. The only ingredient you should be worried about is soy, which is highly toxic to chickens.
Other ingredients you may want to consider include organic grains, garlic powder, and black oil sunflower seeds. Some brands may have a label stating that they are non-GM, but you can also look for the certification label. You can also buy pearl barley and diatomaceous earth locally or online. Pearl barley is a low energy grain that is difficult for chickens to digest. Pearl barley should comprise no more than 20% of your hen’s diet.
