Comparing different DDGS sources as protein alternative for laying hens

Dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) are a valuable source of proteins for poultry. The effect of the inclusion rate and source of DDGS in laying diets on egg production response and egg quality was studied. Lohmann Brown laying hens were fed diets (isocaloric and isonitrogenous) containing no, 7.5% and 15% of a wheat, maize or mixed (wheat/maize) DDGS. The inclusion of DDGS resulted in a comparable or higher laying rate compared to the control diet. Supplementing the mixed DDGS at 15% resulted in the significantly highest egg mass. Laying hens with the highest egg mass consumed more feed (not significant) resulting in a comparable feed conversion ratio between all groups. Within DDGS diets, egg quality was significantly affected by DDGS source. Adding wheat DDGS decreased egg shell deformation, thickness, and resulted in paler yolks. However, egg quality was not negatively influenced by adding DDGS, compared to the control diet. The incidence of soft-shelled and dirty eggs was comparable between groups. In conclusion, laying hens can be fed different DDGS sources at an inclusion level of 15% without negative effects on performance and egg quality.