Effect of Complete Replacement of Maize by Broken Rice in the Diet of Laying Hens

The effect of complete replacement of maize (50% in ration) by broken rice (BR) on nutrient utilization, economics of production and quality of eggs was studied in sixteen hens each of Rhode Island Red (RIR) and White Leghorn (WL) breed. After adaptation.of hens to the maize-based diet for a week, feed consumption and egg production was measured for 10 days period. During next three days nutrient utilization (on 12 hens of each breed) and eggs quality study was done with one egg per hen. Then after fasting hens for 2 days, following maize-, BR-based diets was evaluated in similar way. Dry matter and ether extract metabolisability were significantly higher in BR-than on maize-based diet. However, crude fibre digestibility, retention of protein, calcium and phosphorus were less on BR-based diet. Except egg yolk colour, which was faded, no other egg quality characteristics were affected. The cost per dozen of eggs was higher on BR-based diet. Green berseem and marigold petals were found to be excellent sources of pigment for supplementation to BR-based diet for improving yolk colour.