FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is in the field of feeding poultry, in particular of feeding broiler breeders.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Modern strains of fast-growing broilers have been selected for fast growth, feed efficiency and high feed intake.

Broiler breeder farms raise parent stock which produce fertilized eggs for broiler production. A broiler hatching egg is not meant for human consumption but instead serves to deliver a broiler chick. Broiler breeders share the same genetic potential as broilers for fast growth, but also the same predisposition for metabolic disorders under unlimited access to feed intake. The selection criteria to optimize broilers’ performance is negatively associated with the reproductive performance of broiler breeders. For example, feeding broiler breeders to satiety have negative consequences on their performance, and is known to result in poor laying rate, and laid eggs with low hatchability. Obesity-related problems are associated with health problems, and may have a negative impact on the quality of life of broiler breeders. Therefore, broiler breeders are often feed-restricted (i.e., a restricted amount of feed is fed) through the entire production cycle to avoid obesity-related problems. However, broiler breeders that are restricted in feeding often display behavioural and physiological signs of persistent hunger, lack of satiety and feeding frustration. The stress of feed restriction may also negatively impact the broiler breeders’ reproductive performance.

The present invention provides an improved method for feeding broiler breeders that may improve performance of broiler breeders and optimize nutrient utilization in broiler breeders, particularly broiler breeder hens, that may result in increased egg production, i.e., increased number of total eggs, increased number of hatching eggs, and/or increased chick production, that may increase the time spent eating by the broiler breeders, and as such reduce the hunger feeling and/or increase satiety, and/or that may reduce the chance of pecking.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present inventors found that feeding broiler breeders twice a day with 2 different feed compositions tailored to optimally meet the nutrient requirements of the broiler breeders during the day improved the time spent eating by the broiler breeders, and reduced the chance of pecking. Also, it was found that the method taught herein optimized nutrient utilization in broiler breeders. It was particularly found that feed costs could be reduced whilst performance of the broiler breeders was improved. Further, it was found that the total number of eggs produced, the total number of hatching eggs, and the total number of chicks produced was increased using the method taught herein. Finally, egg shell quality was also improved using the method taught herein.

In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of feeding broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of providing at least two different feed compositions at least two time points a days, wherein a first feed composition (FF) is fed at a first time point, and a second feed composition (SF) is fed at a second time point, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF, and/or wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of feeding broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of providing at least two different feed compositions at least two time points a days, wherein a first feed composition (FF) is fed at a first time point, and a second feed composition (SF) is fed at a second time point, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME, respectively, in the SF.

In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of feeding broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of providing at least two different feed compositions at least two time points a days, wherein a first feed composition (FF) is fed at a first time point, and a second feed composition (SF) is fed at a second time point, wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of feeding broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of providing at least two different feed compositions at least two time points a days, wherein a first feed composition (FF) is fed at a first time point, and a second feed composition (SF) is fed at a second time point, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME, respectively, in the SF, and wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In an embodiment, the level of AME in the FF and SF is below 2700 kcal/kg feed, preferably below 2650 kcal/kg feed, even more preferably below 2600 kcal/kg feed, most preferably below 2550 kcal/kg feed.

In an embodiment, the total daily ration of broiler breeders comprises from about 40 wt% of the FF and to about 60 wt% of the SF to about 60 wt% of the FF to and about 40 wt% of the SF.

In an embodiment, the level of calcium in the FF is below 30 g/kg feed, preferably below 28 g/kg feed, even more preferably below 25 g/kg feed; and/or the level of calcium in the SF is below 40 g/kg feed, preferably below 38 g/kg feed, even more preferably below 35 g/kg feed.

In another aspect, the present disclosure also teaches a kit of parts comprising a FF and a SF, wherein the FF is intended for feeding broiler breeders at a first time point, and the SF is intended for feeding broilers breeders at a second time point, wherein the first and second time point are different, wherein the FF and the SF comprise crude protein, amino acids, phosphorus, calcium, and further AME providing compounds, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF, and wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In an embodiment, the level of calcium in the FF is below 30 g/kg feed, preferably below 28 g/kg feed, even more preferably below 25 g/kg feed. The level of calcium in the SF may be below 40 g/kg feed, preferably below 38 g/kg feed, even more preferably below 35 g/kg feed.

The level of AME in the FF and SF may be below 2700 kcal/kg feed, preferably below 2650 kcal/kg feed, even more preferably below 2600 kcal/kg feed, most preferably below 2550 kcal/kg feed.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of feeding broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of providing at least two different feed compositions at least two time points a days, wherein a first feed composition (FF) is fed at a first time point, and a second feed composition (SF) is fed at a second time point, wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises one, two, three, or all of a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF. Thus, the FF may, for example, comprise a level of amino acids that is higher than the level of amino acids in the SF, or may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF, or may comprise a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of phosphorus in the SF, or may comprise a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF, or any combination thereof.

Thus, in an embodiment, the FF comprise a level of amino acids, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of amino acids, and optionally said level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of crude protein, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of crude protein, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of phosphorus, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, that is higher than the level of phosphorus, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, in the SF. The FF may, for example, comprise a level of phosphorus and a level of AME that is higher than the level of phosphorus and the level of AME in the SF. In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure also teaches a kit of parts comprising a FF and a SF, wherein the FF is intended for feeding broiler breeders at a first time point, and the SF is intended for feeding broilers breeders at a second time point, wherein the first and second time point are different, wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises one, two, three, or all of a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF. Thus, the FF may, for example, comprise a level of amino acids that is higher than the level of amino acids in the SF, or may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF, or may comprise a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of phosphorus in the SF, or may comprise a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF, or any combination thereof.

Thus, in an embodiment, the FF comprise a level of amino acids, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of amino acids, and optionally said level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of crude protein, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of crude protein, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of phosphorus, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, that is higher than the level of phosphorus, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, in the SF. The FF may, for example, comprise a level of phosphorus and a level of AME that is higher than the level of phosphorus and the level of AME in the SF. In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of feeding broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of providing at least two different feed compositions at least two time points a days, wherein a first feed composition (FF) is fed at a first time point, and a second feed composition (SF) is fed at a second time point, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF.

It was found that with such feeding regime improved performance, i.e. , increased egg production, increased number of hatching eggs, and/or increased chick production, could be obtained at reduced cost.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises one, two, three, or all of a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF. Thus, the FF may, for example, comprise a level of amino acids that is higher than the level of amino acids in the SF, or may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF, or may comprise a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of phosphorus in the SF, or may comprise a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF, or any combination thereof.

Thus, in an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of amino acids, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of amino acids, and optionally said level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of crude protein, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of crude protein, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of phosphorus, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, that is higher than the level of phosphorus, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, in the SF. The FF may, for example, comprise a level of phosphorus and a level of AME that is higher than the level of phosphorus and the level of AME in the SF. In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In another aspect, the present disclosure teaches a kit of parts comprising a FF and a SF, wherein the FF is intended for feeding broiler breeders at a first time point, and the SF is intended for feeding broilers breeders at a second time point, wherein the first and second time point are different, wherein the FF and the SF comprise crude protein, amino acids, phosphorus, calcium, and further AME providing compounds, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises one, two, three, or all of a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF. Thus, the FF may, for example, comprise a level of amino acids that is higher than the level of amino acids in the SF, or may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF, or may comprise a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of phosphorus in the SF, or may comprise a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF, or any combination thereof.

Thus, in an embodiment, the FF comprise a level of amino acids, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of amino acids, and optionally said level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of crude protein, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of crude protein, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of phosphorus, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, that is higher than the level of phosphorus, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, in the SF. The FF may, for example, comprise a level of phosphorus and a level of AME that is higher than the level of phosphorus and the level of AME in the SF. In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF. In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In a suitable embodiment, the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

The disclosure further relates to a method of:

- improving welfare of broiler breeders;

- optimizing nutrient utilization in broiler breeders;

- increasing time spent eating by broiler breeders;

- reducing costs of broiler breeder feed;

- reducing the chance of pecking in broiler breeders;

- increasing the egg production of broiler breeders;

- increasing the number of hatching eggs produced per broiler breeder;

- increasing the number of chicks hatched per broiler breeder;

- increasing egg mass of eggs produced by broiler breeders; and/or

- improving egg shell quality of eggs produced by broiler breeders, wherein the eqg shell quality improvement is due to one or more of increased egg shell weight, increased egg shell thickness, increased egg shell breaking strength, and/or increased egg shell weight per unit surface area, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or of feeding broiler breeders using a kit of parts or feed combination as taught herein.

GENERAL DEFINITIONS

In the following description and examples, a number of terms are used. In order to provide a clear and consistent understanding of the specification and claims, including the scope to be given to such terms, the following definitions are provided. Unless otherwise defined herein, all technical and scientific terms used have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The disclosures of all publications, patent applications, patents and other references are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference.

The term “broiler breeders” as used herein refers to the hens which produce fertilized eggs, i.e., broiler hatching eggs. The term “apparent metabolizable energy” (herein interchangeably referred to as “AME” or “AMEn”) refers to the available energy content of feedstuffs and diets, and it is calculated as the difference between the gross energy of the feed consumed and the gross energy contained in the excreta (feces + urine) corrected by nitrogen retention. AMEn, as determined using the method described by Hill and Anderson (1958. The Journal of Nutrition, Volume 64, Issue 4, April 1958, Pages 587-603), or slight modifications thereof, e.g. as described by Bourdillon et al. (1990. Br. Poultry Sci. 31:567-576), is the most common measure of available energy used in formulation of poultry feeds. Thus, the AME value referred to herein may be determined using the method as described by Hill and Anderson (supra) or Bourdillon et al. (supra). Alternatively, the energy value of compound poultry feed may be calculated in accordance with the COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 152/2009 of 27 January 2009 laying down the methods of sampling and analysis for the official control of feed, using the formula set out below on the basis of the percentages of certain analytical components of the feed. This value is to be expressed in megajoules (MJ) of metabolisable energy (ME), corrected for nitrogen, per kilogram of compound feed:

MJ/kg of ME = 0,1551 ^c % crude protein + 0,3431 ^c % crude fat + 0,1669 ^c % starch + 0,1301 x % total sugar (expressed as sucrose).

The term “crude protein” (abbreviated as CP) as used herein refers to a measure of the nitrogen content of a feedstuff, including both true protein and non-protein nitrogen. Crude protein serves as an estimate for total protein. A crude protein contains nitrogen from not only protein but non-protein sources as well. Crude protein is used for energy and helps build tissue. The level of crude protein may be based on a laboratory nitrogen analysis, from which the total protein content in a feedstuff can be calculated by multiplying the nitrogen value determined in feed by 100/16 or 6.25. This is from the assumption that nitrogen is derived from protein containing 16 % nitrogen (AOAC, 1984). However, some portion of the N in most feeds is found as non-protein nitrogen (NPN) and, therefore, the value calculated by multiplying N x 6.25 is referred to as crude rather than true protein. The nitrogen value may advantageously be determined using the Kjeldahl, or Dumas (or a similar) method (AOAC, 2000).

The term “neutral detergent fiber” (abbreviated as NDF) as used herein refers to a measure of the structural components of a plant, specifically cell wall (i.e. lignin, hemicellulose and cellulose), but not pectin. Typically, NDF measurement involves the use of a neutral detergent solution is used to dissolve the easily digested pectins and plant cell contents (proteins, sugars, and lipids), leaving structural components of a plant, i.e. fibrous residue that is primarily cell wall components of plants (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin). NDF represents the most common measure of fiber used for animal feed analysis, but it does not represent a unique class of chemical compounds. NDF may advantageously be measured by EN ISO 16472 (AOAC 2002:04), which refers to Analysis of Neutral Detergent Fibre (NDF) in Feed, and describes an analytical procedure based on the crucible or Fibertec™ method.

The term “acid detergent fiber” (abbreviated as ADF) as used herein refers to a measure of the least digestible plant components, including cellulose and lignin. ADF may advantageously be determined using EN ISO 13906 (AOAC 973.18), which refers to the Analysis of Acid Detergent Fibre (ADF) and Lignin (ADL) in Feed, and describes an analytical procedure based on the crucible or Fibertec™ method.

The term “complete feed” as used herein refers to a formulated feed which is balanced in all the essential nutrients needed for normal growth and production of animals.

The abbreviation “wt%” as used herein stands for weight percent, and refers to a weight fraction of the total weight, e.g., the total weight of the feed.

The terms “comprising” or “to comprise” and their conjugations, as used herein, refer to a situation wherein said terms are used in their non-limiting sense to mean that items following the word are included, but items not specifically mentioned are not excluded. It also encompasses the more limiting verb “to consist essentially of” and “to consist of”.

Reference to an element by the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude the possibility that more than one of the elements is present, unless the context clearly requires that there be one and only one of the elements. The indefinite article "a" or "an" thus usually means "at least one". As used herein “another” may mean at least a second or more. As used herein, the term “about” means within 25% of the stated value, or more preferentially within 15% of the value, even more preferably within 10%, 5%, 2%, or 1% of the stated value.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of feeding broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of providing at least two different feed compositions at least two time points a day, wherein a first feed composition (FF) is fed at a first time point, and a second feed composition (SF) is fed at a second time point, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME), respectively, in the SF, and wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of feeding broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of providing at least two different feed compositions at least two time points a day, wherein a first feed composition (FF) is fed at a first time point, and a second feed composition (SF) is fed at a second time point, wherein the the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises one, two, three, or all of a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF. Thus, the FF may, for example, comprise a level of amino acids that is higher than the level of amino acids in the SF, or may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF, or may comprise a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of phosphorus in the SF, or may comprise a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF, or any combination thereof.

Thus, in an embodiment, the FF comprise a level of amino acids, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of amino acids, and optionally said level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of crude protein, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of crude protein, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of phosphorus, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, that is higher than the level of phosphorus, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, in the SF. The FF may, for example, comprise a level of phosphorus and a level of AME that is higher than the level of phosphorus and the level of AME in the SF. In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of feeding broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of providing at least two different feed compositions at least two time points a day, wherein a first feed composition (FF) is fed at a first time point, and a second feed composition (SF) is fed at a second time point, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME), respectively, in the SF.

It was found that with such feeding regime improved performance, i.e. , increased egg production, increased number of hatching eggs, and/or increased chick production, could be obtained at reduced cost.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises one, two, three, or all of a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF. Thus, the FF may, for example, comprise a level of amino acids that is higher than the level of amino acids in the SF, or may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF, or may comprise a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of phosphorus in the SF, or may comprise a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF, or any combination thereof.

Thus, in an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of amino acids, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of amino acids, and optionally said level of one, two, or three of crude protein, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of amino acids, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of crude protein, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, that is higher than the level of crude protein, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, phosphorus, and AME, in the SF. For example, the FF may comprise a level of crude protein that is higher than the level of crude protein in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of phosphorus that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of phosphorus in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein and the level of AME in the SF. The FF may comprise a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of phosphorus, and optionally a level of one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, that is higher than the level of phosphorus, and optionally the level of said one, two, or three of amino acids, crude protein, and AME, in the SF. The FF may, for example, comprise a level of phosphorus and a level of AME that is higher than the level of phosphorus and the level of AME in the SF. In an embodiment, the FF comprises a level of AME that is higher than the level of AME in the SF.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME in the SF.

In an embodiment, the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

According to a method taught herein, at least two different feed compositions are provided to broiler breeders, and the at least two different feed compositions are provided at two different time points, i.e. , the FF is fed at a first time point, and the SF is fed at a second time point. In a suitable embodiment of the method taught herein, the FF is fed in the morning, i.e., before noon, e.g. before 11 AM, before 10 AM, before 9 AM, before 8 AM, or before 7 AM, such as before 6 AM, before 5 AM, or even before 4 AM, and the SF is fed in the afternoon, i.e., after 12 AM, e.g., after 1 PM, after 2 PM, after 3 PM, after 4 PM, and the like. In an embodiment, the FF and the SF are fed at least 2 hrs, preferably at least 3 hours, more preferably at least 4 hours, yet more preferably at least 5 hours, again more preferably at least 6 hours, such as at least 7 or 8 hours, apart.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF and the SF are fed as a complete feed. In an embodiment, the FF and the SF further comprise additional nutrients, such as carbohydrates, fats, fatty acids, vitamins, and trace minerals, or additional ingredients such as organic acids, preservatives, antioxidants, enzymes, synthetic amino acids, and the like. The skilled person is capable of formulating a complete first feed and a complete second feed in accordance with the minimum or optimal nutrient requirements of broiler breeders.

The FF and SF may comprise any conventional feed ingredients, such as, without limitation, wheat, wheat bran, barley, barley straw, corn, soy bean meal, gluten meal, bakery meal, feather meal, fish meal, horse beans, linseed, lucerne, lupins, maize, maize distillers dried grains with solubles, maize gluten feed, maize gluten meal, meat and bone meal, oat hulls, oats, dehulled oats, palm kernel meal, pea flakes, pea protein, pea starch, peas, potato protein concentrate, rapeseed meal, rice, rice flour, rye, skimmed milk powder, soy protein concentrate, soy protein isolate, soybean hulls, soybean meal, sugar beet pulp, sunflower seed meal, triticale, wheat flour, wheat gluten feed, wheat gluten meal, hydrolyzed wheat gluten meal, wheat middlings, wheat distillers dried grains with solubles, whey permeate, acid whey powder, sweet whey powder, delactosed whey powder, whey protein concentrate, vegetable oils, such as soya oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, and the like, calcium sources such as calcium carbonate, phosphates, salts, sodium bicarbonate, enzymes such as phytases and NSP enzymes, synthetic amino acids, and the like. Such feed ingredients provide multiple macro- and micronutrients, such as carbohydrates (e.g., starch and non starch polysaccharides), proteins, fat, fiber, and the like. Thus, upon careful selection of amounts of various feed ingredients, feeds may be tailored to provide the desired amounts of specific macro- and/or micronutrients in the feeds. Premixes, e.g., comprising vitamins, minerals, organic acids, and the like, may be added to fulfil micronutrient requirements, or micronutrients may be added separately, if desired.

The broiler breeders may be fed using any feeding system known to the skilled person. Well- known feeding systems include, without limitation, chain feeders and plate feeders.

In an embodiment, the method taught herein is part of a restricted feeding programme. Restricted feeding programmes may include any of the following methods: a) limited everyday feeding programme, wherein the birds are given a measured amount of feed each day but less than they would eat if fully fed; b) skip-a-day feeding, wherein birds are fed every other day and the amount of feed given on feed days must be regulated to twice the amount of feed allocated on the limited everyday programme; and c) varying nutrient density, wherein the nutrient density of the ration is ‘diluted’.

In an embodiment of the method taught herein, the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME, respectively, in the SF, and wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

Amino acids are essential nutritional components of a balanced diet and occur in foods in either the free amino acid form or as the building blocks of proteins. The “level of amino acids” as used herein refers to the level of amino acids regardless of whether they are present in feed in the form of peptides, proteins, or free amino acids. The level of amino acids in a feed may be determined based upon known amino acid compositions of proteins in the various feed ingredients, or may advantageously be determined in feed using AOAC Official Method 994.12, Amino Acids in Feeds. Official Methods of Analysis of AOAC Int. 18th Ed, 2005, Rev. 4. 2011, Chapter 4, pp 9-19. Alternatively or additionally, the level of amino acids in a feed may be determined in accordance with the COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 152/2009 of 27 January 2009 laying down the methods of sampling and analysis for the official control of feed.

The level of phosphorus may be determined based upon known phosphorus levels of the various feed ingredients making up the feed, or may be determined in feed in accordance with the COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 152/2009 of 27 January 2009 laying down the methods of sampling and analysis for the official control of feed. Alternatively or additionally, the level of phosphorus in feed may be determined using AOAC Official Method 964.06, Phosphorus in animal feed.

The level of calcium may be determined using AOAC Official Method 927.02. Calcium in Animal Feed. Dry Ash Method (Application to mineral feeds only), or using AOAC Official Method 935.13. Calcium in Animal Feed. Wet Ash Method.

The level of digestible amino acids in the FF and SF may be any conventional level. In an embodiment, the level of digestible amino acids referred to herein refers to the total level of digestible amino acids, i.e. , the sum of the levels of all digestible amino acids in the FF and SF, respectively. In an embodiment, the level of digestible amino acids referred to herein refers to at least the total level of the digestible lysine, methionine plus cysteine, threonine, tryptophan, arginine, valine, leucine, and isoleucine in the FF and SF. The level of digestible amino acids in the FF and SF may be in the range of about 25-50 g/kg feed, such as about 30-45 g/kg feed, or about 33-43 g/kg feed.

In an embodiment, the level of AME in the FF and SF is below 2700 kcal/kg feed, preferably below 2650 kcal/kg feed, more preferably below 2600 kcal/kg feed, even more preferably below 2550 kcal/kg feed, yet more preferably below 2500 kcal/kg feed, again more preferably below 2450 kcal/kg feed. In an embodiment, the level of AME in the SF is below 2400 kcal/kg feed.

In an embodiment, the level of AME in the FF and SF should be above 2000 kcal/kg feed, preferably above 2100 kcal/kg feed, more preferably above 2200 kcal/kg feed.

In an embodiment, the total daily ration of broiler breeders comprises in the range of from about 30 wt% of the FF and about 70 wt% of the SF, to about 70 wt% of the FF and about 30 wt% of the SF (i.e., in the range of from 30%FF and 70%SF to 70%FF and 30%SF), or in the range of from about 40 wt% of the FF and about 60 wt% of the SF, to about 60 wt% of the FF and about 40 wt% of the SF (i.e. , in the range of from 40%FF and 60%SF to 60%FF and 40%SF). In an embodiment, the total daily ration of broiler breeders comprises in the range of from about 45 wt% of the FF and about 55 wt% of the SF to about 55 wt% of the FF and about 45 wt% of the SF (i.e., in the range of from 45%FF and 55%SF to 55%FF and 45%SF).

In an embodiment, the level of crude protein in the FF and SF is in the range of about 11-16 wt%, preferably 11.5-15.5 wt%, more preferably 12-14.5 wt% of the feed. In an embodiment, the level of crude protein in the FF is in the range of about 12.5-14.5 wt% of the feed, and the level of crude protein in the SF is in the range of about 11-13.5 wt% of the feed.

In an embodiment, the level of phosphorus, preferably available phosphorus, in the FF and SF is in the range of about 2-4 g/kg feed, preferably about 2.3-3.8 g/kg feed, more preferably about 2.5-3.5 g/kg feed. In an embodiment, the level of phosphorus, preferably available phosphorus in the FF is in the range of about 2.5-3.5 g/kg feed, and the level of phosphorus, preferably available phosphorus in the SF is in the range of about 2-3 g/kg feed.

In an embodiment, the level of calcium in the FF is below 30 g/kg feed, preferably below 28 g/kg feed, even more preferably below 25 g/kg feed; and/or the level of calcium in the SF is below 40 g/kg feed, preferably below 38 g/kg feed, even more preferably below 35 g/kg feed. Preferably, the level of calcium in the FF is above 15 g/kg feed, preferably above 18 g/kg feed, even more preferably above 20 g/kg feed.

In an embodiment, the FF and SF comprise a level of crude fiber (CF) in the range of about 5-15 wt%, preferably of about 6-14 wt%, even more preferably in the range of about 7-13 wt%, yet more preferably in the range of about 7.5-12 wt% of the feed. The level of CF may be determined in accordance with EN ISO 6865 (AOAC 978.10).

In an embodiment, the FF and SF comprise a level of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in the range of about 10-30 wt%, preferably about 12-28 wt%, more preferably about 14-25 wt% of the feed.

In a suitable embodiment, the FF and the SF comprise vitamins, e.g., vitamin A, vitamin D3, and vitamin E. Other vitamins that may be included, include any one or any combination of vitamin C, thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), panthothenic acid (B5), vitamin B6, biotine (B8), folic acid (B11), and vitamin B12. Vitamin E may also serve as a preservative of the FF and SF. In an embodiment, the broiler breeders are fed the FF within the first hour after the lights are turned on in a barn. The FF may also be introduced into the feeder before the lights are on; however, typically the broilers breeders are fed after the lights are turned on.

In an embodiment, the broiler breeders are fed a total daily ration of FF and SF in the range of about 150-225, preferably about 160-215, even more preferably about 170-205 g feed/day per broiler breeder.

In an aspect, the present disclosure also provides a kit of parts, or a feed combination, comprising a first feed composition (FF) and a second feed composition (SF), wherein the FF is intended for feeding broiler breeders at a first time point, and the SF is intended for feeding broilers breeders at a second time point, wherein the first and second time point are different, wherein the FF and the SF comprise crude protein, amino acids, phosphorus, calcium, and further AME providing compounds, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and the level of AME, respectively, in the SF, and wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a kit of parts comprising a FF and a SF, wherein the FF is intended for feeding broiler breeders at a first time point, and the SF is intended for feeding broilers breeders at a second time point, wherein the first and second time point are different, wherein the SF comprises a level of calcium that is higher than the level of calcium in the FF.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a kit of parts comprising a FF and a SF, wherein the FF is intended for feeding broiler breeders at a first time point, and the SF is intended for feeding broilers breeders at a second time point, wherein the first and second time point are different, wherein the FF and the SF comprise crude protein, amino acids, phosphorus, calcium, and further AME providing compounds, wherein the FF comprises a level of amino acids, a level of crude protein, a level of phosphorus, and/or a level of AME that is higher than the level of amino acids, the level of crude protein, the level of phosphorus, and/or the level of AME, respectively, in the SF.

In an embodiment, the levels of nutrients of the FF and SF are as described above in relation to a method taught herein. In particular, the levels of crude protein, amino acids, phosphorus, calcium, optionally crude fiber and/or neutral-detergent fiber, and further AME providing compounds in the FF and the SF may be as set forth above in relation to a method taught herein.

In an embodiment, the kit of parts taught herein comprises 2 containers or bags or silos or other dosage units, one of which comprises the FF, and the other of which comprises the SF. Preferably, the kit of parts are solid in combination for the purpose of feeding broiler breeders at two different time points. Thus, the kit of parts, or feed combination, taught herein may comprise instructions for feeding the FF to broiler breeders at a first time point, and feeding the SF to broiler breeders at a second time point. The time points may be as set forth above in relation to the method taught herein.

In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for improving welfare of broiler breeders, preferably relative to current feeding methods, more preferably relative to feeding once a day, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or using a kit of parts as taught herein.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of optimizing nutrient utilization in broiler breeders, preferably relative to current feeding methods, more preferably relative to feeding once a day, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or using a kit of parts as taught herein.

In a further aspect, the present disclosure pertains to a method of increasing time spent eating by broiler breeders, preferably relative to current feeding methods, more preferably relative to feeding once a day, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or using a kit of parts as taught herein.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure teaches a method of reducing costs of broiler breeder feed, preferably relative to current feeding methods, more preferably relative to feeding once a day, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or using a kit of parts as taught herein.

Further, the present disclosure teaches a method of reducing the chance of broiler breeders pecking, preferably relative to current feeding methods, more preferably relative to feeding once a day, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or using a kit of parts as taught herein. Also, the present disclosure teaches a method for increasing the egg production of broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or of feeding broiler breeders using a kit of parts as taught herein.

Additionally, the present disclosure teaches a method of increasing the number of hatching eggs produced per broiler breeder, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or of feeding broiler breeders using a kit of parts as taught herein.

Further, the present disclosure teaches a method of increasing the number of chicks hatched per broiler breeder, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or of feeding broiler breeders using a kit of parts as taught herein.

Moreover, the present disclosure teaches a method of increasing egg mass of eggs produced by broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or of feeding broiler breeders using a kit of parts as taught herein.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of improving egg shell quality of eggs produced by broiler breeders, said method comprising the step of feeding broiler breeders using a method as taught herein, or of feeding broiler breeders using a kit of parts as taught herein. In an embodiment, the eqg shell quality improvement is demonstrated by one or more of increased egg shell weight, increased egg shell thickness, increased egg shell breaking strength, and/or increased egg shell weight per unit surface area.

The present invention is further illustrated, but not limited, by the following examples. From the above discussion and these examples, one skilled in the art can ascertain the essential characteristics of the present invention, and without departing from the teaching and scope thereof, can make various changes and modifications of the invention to adapt it to various usages and conditions. Thus, various modifications of the invention in addition to those shown and described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are also intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

EXAMPLES

Example 1 Experimental set-up

A total of 2780 male and female Ross 308 (50 weeks of age) were housed in 20 pens (i.e., 128 females + 11 males per pen). 2 weeks prior to experimental treatment, all birds received the same standard diet once a day upon the light being turned on (i.e., at 6AM). Light was kept on for 16 hours per day. During this pre-experi mental phase, feed was given in a meal at 6AM but the feeder also worked without feed at 1PM to help the broiler breeders get accustomed to the noise when feeding twice a day. Feed intake was calculated for each pen considering BW and egg mass production (last 5 weeks were used for such calculation). All pens were fed with the same amount of nutrients (with small differences due to the production level and mainly the BW). On average, animals in the control diet (feeding once a day) consumed 165 g/d and animals fed the twice-a-day treatment of FF and SF consumed 190 g/d. However, nutrients intake were calculated according BW considering o 75 energy requirements based on differences in maintenance of 125 Kcal/ kg PV If animals produced more egg mass (EM) than the standard, they were fed with 2 kcal/g EM more.

At week 51, breeder males were partly re-allocated (intra spiking): 50% of the males of one pen was placed in the pen that was in front of it and vice versa. The biggest males were moved. During the two pre-experimental weeks, egg production and egg weight were measured. Pre-experi mental results were used as co-variable in the statistical analysis of the treatments. The total length of the experimental period was of 10 weeks (from 53 to 63 weeks of age).

Tables 1 and 2 below set forth the nutrient composition of diets used in the present trial, and feeding regime for said diets, respectively.

Table 1. Nutrient composition of experimental diets

Table 2. Feeding regime of diets

Percentage in grams of feed

Results

Body weight (BW) and body weight variation (CV BW)

Animals fed the control diet started the trial with significantly higher body weight (BW) than those fed the FF/SF diets. These differences in BW were maintained until week 56 of age (4316 vs 4238 g BW, for the control and the FF/SF treatment, respectively). Moreover, at weeks 53 and 55, BW variance (CV BW) was significantly higher in the broiler breeders fed the FF/SF diet and programme. At the end of the trial no differences on BW or CV BW were observed between the two dietary treatments. Weekly growth from 53 to 63 weeks of age tended to be higher with the FF/SF diet (22.45 vs 29.14 g/week; P=0.0625). This increase in growth observed in animals fed the FF/SF diet relative to animals fed the control diet might indicate a better utilization of the nutrients as nutrient intake per se (amino acids, CP, AME, P and Ca) was lower with this treatment compared to the control.

Performance results

Performance parameters, from 53 to 63 weeks of age are shown in Table 3 below. Egg production was higher (P<0.05) with the FF/SF diet program compared to the control (D 2.61%, absolute). Further, egg mass (in grams) was increased (P<0.05) with the FF/SF diet program compared to the control (D 1.80 grams, absolute). Also, the percentage of hatching eggs on the FF/SF group was increased relative to the control group (89.12 vs 91.13%; P<0.05).

Table 3. Performance results of broiler breeders from 53 to 63 weeks of age.

Time eating

Significant differences on the total feeding time required on each of the two dietary treatments were observed. Breeder females eating the FF/SF diets spent more time consuming feed compared to the control group (240 vs 389 min.). During the morning meal, no difference on time eating was observed. However, when the amount of feed between treatments was considered (control: 165 g/d and SF: 95 g/d), time spent eating relative to feed intake was significantly higher in breeders on the FF/SF program (1.45 vs 2.65 min/g). Animals on the FF/SF program spent less time in the afternoon to consume the same amount of feed that was offered in the morning meal (252 vs 137 min., respectively).

Behaviour

It was observed that broiler breeder hens with FF/SF diet were pecking significantly less than the animals fed the control diet.

Production costs

Total eggs, hatching eggs and chicks produced per hen housed were significantly higher (P<0.05) in breeders fed following the FF/SF program compared to the control treatment. When feed intake (FI) was considered, breeder hens under the FF/SF treatment had significantly higher intake per total egg, hatching egg and chick produced. It is due to the fact that FF/SF diet comprised less AME per kg feed than the control diet, and more feed was supplied and consumed by the hens. However, considering the price of the diets the cost of producing an egg, a hatching egg and a chick was significantly (P<0.05) lower for the FF/SF diet compared to the control diet.

Example 2

Experimental set-up A total of 16200 females Ross 308 and 71500 females Cobb from 40 to 49 weeks housed in 8 commercial barns of three different producers were included in the study. Each barn was an experimental unit. Four barns were fed with a control diet once a day (162 g/d per hen), and the other 4 barns were fed twice-a-day with a FF/SF feeding programme (93 g/d FF at 06:00 am and 93 g/d SF at 13:00 pm). This scheme was adjusted per barn according their requirements. Nutrient compositions of control and FF/SF diets are shown in Table 4.

Table 4. Nutrient composition of control and FF/SF

Table 5 below summarizes some characteristics of experimental design. Table 5. Experimental design

60 eggs per barn were collected five times along the study, at the hatchery for an eggshell quality control analysis (egg weight, breaking strength, eggshell thickness, eggshell weight, SWUSA).

Results

Cost reduction per total eggs, total hatching eggs, and total chicks hatched The treatment FF/SF reduced the production cost per egg produced, hatching egg and chick produced by 4.7, 3.6, and 4.0%, respectively.

Eggshell quality

The effect of treatments on several eggshell quality traits is shown in Table 7 below. Eggshell weight of hens fed with FF/SF diet was significantly higher (D 2.25%) than those of hens fed the control diet. This is in agreement with the findings on breaking strength, eggshell thickness and SWUSA, as their values tended to be higher in hens fed the FF/SF diet than those fed the control diet. According to the results, it can be concluded that FF/SF diet improved eggshell quality. Table 7. Eggshell quality traits

Breaking strength, g Eggshell weight, g Thickness, mm SWUSA, g/cm2