Summary
This comparative field trial evaluated three laying hen genotypes (Lohmann Brown, Lohmann Sandy, and ATAK-S) under free-range management across performance, egg quality, and economic metrics. Lohmann Sandy demonstrated superior overall suitability for free-range production, combining highest egg production, lowest breakage rates, best feed efficiency, and lowest production cost, whilst Lohmann Brown excelled in albumen quality and yolk colour. The findings suggest genotype selection substantially influences both productive efficiency and product quality in free-range systems.
Regional applicability
The results are potentially applicable to UK free-range and organic poultry producers selecting layer genotypes, as climatic and management conditions in Turkey may be broadly comparable to some UK regions. However, UK producers should consider domestic welfare standards and specific market requirements for egg colour and quality when evaluating genotype recommendations from this Turkish trial.
Key measures
Egg production rate, broken–cracked egg ratio, egg weight, feed consumption, feed efficiency, viability, eggshell strength, Haugh unit, yolk colour, shell colour, production cost per egg
Outcomes reported
The study compared performance traits (egg production, breakage rates, feed consumption, feed efficiency, viability), egg quality attributes (shell strength, albumen quality, yolk and shell colour), and production economics across three laying hen genotypes under free-range management from 21 to 44 weeks of age.
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