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Shell Quality and Color Variation in Broiler Breeder Eggs

Department of Agricultural, Food, and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2P5, Canada; Phone: (780) 492-3234; FAX: (780) 492-9130

Correspondence: F. E. Robinson

Hatching egg producers have often wondered if there could be a relationship between eggshell color and shell quality. In this experiment, eggshell color, specific gravity, and other shell quality characteristics were recorded in broiler breeders to determine the significance of variation in shell color on eggshell quality. Eggs were collected from four strains of birds (Avian 24K, Cobb 500, Hubbard Hi-Y, and Shaver Starbro) on three feeding programs (ad libitum, fast feed, and slow feed). Image-analysis software was used to assess shell color.

A possible relationship between shell color and shell quality appeared with ad libitum feeding. The darker brown the eggshell, the higher the specific gravity and thus the greater the shell quality. While this correlation was small, it was highly significant. Strain appeared to have a greater effect on shell color than did feeding treatment. However, a relationship between shell color and shell quality, similar to that found in the ad libitum-fed birds, was not apparent.

Key Words: Broiler breeders • feed allocation • shell color • shell quality • strain of bird