EFFECTS OF SPAN RAPESEED MEAL ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE, EGG QUALITY, COMPOSITION OF LIVER AND HEARTS AND INCIDENCE OF "FATTY LIVERS" IN LAYING HENS

Abstract

Single-comb White Leghorn pullets were fed rations containing four levels (0, 5, 7.5 and 10%) of rapeseed meal in two trials that lasted for 336 days each. It was observed that the level of mortality and mortality attributed to "fatty liver syndrome" were similar when 0 or 5% rapeseed meal was included in the ration, but increased as the level of rapeseed meal in the ration was increased. Egg production was significantly reduced by inclusion of 10% rapeseed meal in the ration. Haugh unit values and specific gravity of eggs produced, feed conversion and body weight of the pullets were not affected by the dietary treatments used. No significant effects of treatment on size, dry matter, fat and protein contents of the hearts and livers were observed. Enlargement of the thyroids was observed in the groups fed rapeseed meal.