Sequential and choice feeding in laying hens, how much does it help to adapt to the egg cycle?

Conventional feeding system for laying hens relies on a complete mash feed available ad libitum. Under such complete diet system, bird consumption is mainly controlled by energy requirement but in case of high heterogeneity in level of egg production between hens or when the environmental temperatures varies, the birds might either over or under-consume protein and Ca. Sequential, loose-mix and choice feeding have been proposed as alternative feeding systems. These give the possibility to hens to make a self-selection between energy, protein sources including vitamins and minerals and large particle size calcium sources, to adapt to individual requirements and to hourly change in hen requirement. In addition, use of local whole cereals spares the energy needed for transport, milling and mixing the cereals. This review explores the physiological basis for sequential, loose-mix and choice feeding and evaluates the impact of these systems on egg production and quality.