Factors Affecting Egg Quality

By R. Scott Beyer, Poultry Specialist, Kansas State University - Many factors affect egg quality. Sometimes the cause is not a single factor but a combination of factors. A few of these problems can be prevented or reduced by good hen management.

Producers should remember that genetics, feed quality and environment play a role in egg quality. The most reliable factor is age. A young pullet produces smaller eggs with strong egg shells and albumen that stands high. As the hen ages, the shells thin, and the albumen begins to weaken and run. Hens can be molted to induce another egg cycle, which will improve egg quality, or they will need to be replaced with young pullets.

The following charts summarize factors that may affect egg quality and suggest corrective measures. As more emphasis is placed on egg quality, it is important that all possible defects be eliminated. When defects are found, consult the chart for possible causes and solutions.

March 2006

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