Abstract
Objective: In this study, it was aimed to determine the egg quality traits of hens belonging to Lohmann Sandy genotype raised in the free-range system.
Materials and methods: In the research, eggs obtained from hens belonging to Lohmann Sandy genotype raised in a private enterprise in Ordu province were used. In each period for egg quality determination, 30 daily eggs were used. After keeping the eggs at room temperature for 24 hours, the internal and external quality traits of eggs were determined.
Results: The albumen index and the Haugh unit values showed a significant change depending on time and were determined as 11.31 and 92.90 on average, respectively. On the other hand, the yolk index value did not show a significant change depending on the time and the average value was found to be 51.21. Egg weight showed a significant change depending on the time and was determined as 58.84 g on average. Shell surface area and egg volume also showed a significant change depending on time and were calculated as 74.58 cm2 and 54.41 cm3 on average, respectively. Shell thickness, shape index and specific gravity values did not show a significant change depending on time.
Conclusion: It is of great importance that eggs produced with alternative systems are introduced to the market. In order to increase the consumption level of eggs, the place and importance of eggs in adequate and balanced nutrition should be explained, especially targeting children in developmental age and the elderly.