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The effect on profit of Optimising nutrient density for laying hens |
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| Authors: | M W McDonald |
| Institution: | Queensland Agricultural College , Lawes , Queensland , 4343 , Australia |
| Abstract: | 1. Using economic data from three locations in Australia nutrient densities were compared in laying diets which either minimised the daily cost of feeding a hen or maximised profit. 2. The effects of nutrient density on rate of production and egg weight were examined using published data to show that, within the range chosen for the analysis, nutrient density did not significantly (P < 0#lb05) affect rate of lay but was significantly and positively correlated (P< 0#lb01) with egg weight. 3. Nutrient densities which maximised profit were higher than those which minimised daily food cost. 4. Averaged over the three locations, maximum profit was achieved at a nutrient density of 11#lb80 MJ/kg compared with 11*57 MJ/kg to minimise food cost. 5. Food cost at the most profitable nutrient density was $2#lb00 per tonne higher than at the nutrient density which minimised food cost but resulting profit was slightly higher. |
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