Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of productivity and health in laying hens. Modern laying hens can produce an egg almost daily, a process that demands a steady supply of proteins, energy, minerals, and vitamins. Feed is formulated and fortified to meet these needs at each life stage, from starter chicks to peak-lay hens. Inadequate feeding at any stage can stunt development or reduce lifetime egg production. Conversely, a well-balanced diet enables hens to reach their genetic potential, resulting in high egg output and quality eggshells while maintaining the hen’s health. Layer rations typically contain around 16–18% protein and elevated calcium (~3–4%) to support continuous egg laying and strong shells. We hope the following highlights why formulating high-quality feed is so important: it directly influences egg yield, egg quality, and the longevity of the hens in production.
Nutritional Benefits
A high-quality laying hen feed provides a complete package of nutrients. This includes macronutrients like proteins and fats (for energy and essential fatty acids), as well as micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) that hens cannot produce themselves. Premium feeds often use nutrient-dense ingredients and supplements to ensure all requirements are met. Below is a breakdown of key nutritional components in quality layer feeds – including those featured in hemp-based formulations like Hemptana Optimal Omega Laying Hen Feed – and their benefits for laying hens:
- High-Quality Proteins and Amino Acids: Protein supplies the building blocks (amino acids) for egg formation (particularly the egg’s albumen and yolk proteins) and for the hen’s body maintenance. Layer diets usually rely on protein-rich ingredients such as soybean meal or canola meal. These provide essential amino acids like lysine and methionine, which are critical for egg production (methionine in particular influences egg size and rate of lay). New alternatives like hempseed meal offer a comparably high protein content (~30% crude protein) with a well-rounded amino acid profile. Hempseed meal is notably free of anti-nutritional factors (unlike raw soy, which contains trypsin inhibitors that require heat treatment, making it an appealing natural protein source. In practice, many layer feeds (including Hemptana’s soy-free formula) combine multiple protein sources – e.g. field peas and hempseed meal – to achieve a complete amino acid profile. Supplemental amino acids (like DL-methionine, as added in Hemptana feed) are often included to ensure the diet meets hens’ requirements precisely. Adequate protein and amino acid levels in feed directly translate to consistent egg production and prevent hens from losing body condition.
- Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) and Energy: Dietary fats are a concentrated energy source and provide essential fatty acids that hens need for overall health and egg quality. Linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid) is essential in poultry diets; a minimum level is needed to maintain optimal egg weight and production. Traditional feeds often include sources like corn or soybean oil (rich in omega-6) to supply energy and EFAs. However, balancing fatty acids is important for bird health and egg nutrition. Ingredients like flax, fish oil, or hempseed can add omega-3 fatty acids (such as α-linolenic acid, ALA). Notably, hempseed has a naturally balanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of about 3:1. It is rich in polyunsaturated fats including ALA and the rare gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which have anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporating such ingredients leads to a more optimal fatty acid profile in the diet. Hens fed diets with these omega-rich ingredients lay eggs with higher omega-3 content and a lower omega-6:3 ratio (beneficial for human nutrition). In essence, quality feeds provide the necessary fats for energy, while also leveraging sources of omega-3 to support hen health (e.g. immune function, feather quality) and to produce nutritionally enriched eggs (so-called “omega-3 eggs”).
- Vitamins: Vitamins are required in small amounts but are absolutely vital for egg production and hen vitality. For example, vitamin D₃ is needed for calcium absorption and eggshell formation; vitamin A supports growth, reproduction, and immune function; vitamin E acts as an antioxidant important for immunity and fertility; B-complex vitamins (B₂, B₁₂, folic acid, etc.) drive metabolic processes and embryo development in the egg. High-quality feeds contain a premix of vitamins to ensure hens do not encounter deficiencies, especially during intensive laying. Typically, all the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D₃, E, K) and key B vitamins are added to layer feed. Some feed ingredients naturally contribute vitamins as well – for instance, hempseed is a good source of vitamin E (tocopherols) and alfalfa or corn provide carotenoids (like lutein, a vitamin A precursor that also deepens yolk color). In a well-fortified feed, hens receive the vitamins needed to maintain strong immune systems, high egg production, and good hatchability of eggs (in breeder operations). Hemptana’s feed, for example, includes a comprehensive vitamin supplement (Vitamin A, D₃, E, B₁₂, riboflavin, etc.) to cover all micronutrient requirements.
- Minerals: Minerals, both macro and trace, play critical roles in laying hen nutrition. Calcium is paramount — a laying hen allocates a large amount of calcium to each eggshell (each eggshell contains ~2 grams of calcium carbonate). If the diet is deficient, hens will draw calcium from their bones, leading to osteoporosis and weaker shells. Thus, layer feeds are formulated with high calcium levels (usually 3–4% of the feed) to support daily shell formation. This is typically supplied via limestone or oyster shell included in the feed. Phosphorus is also provided (often as monocalcium phosphate or via grains) in the correct ratio to calcium to support bone health and metabolism. Common salt (sodium and chloride) is added to meet electrolyte needs. Trace minerals like manganese, zinc, copper, selenium, and iodine are included through mineral premixes or natural sources (for example, Hemptana’s formula uses kelp meal as a natural source of iodine and other trace minerals alongside a mineral premix). Manganese and zinc contribute to strong egg shells and membranes, selenium and vitamin E together support antioxidant defenses, and iodine ensures proper thyroid function (important for metabolism). A high-quality feed provides all these minerals in bioavailable forms. By meeting mineral requirements, the feed helps hens lay eggs with strong shells and maintains the hen’s own skeletal strength and metabolic health.
The best laying hen feeds combine these nutritional components in a balanced way to meet the birds’ needs. They often use a mix of grains (for energy), protein meals, and specialized ingredients to achieve nutritional targets. For instance, the hemp-based layer ration like Hemptana’s Optimal Omega Laying Hen Feed uses wheat and field peas for carbohydrate and protein, hemp seed meal and camelina meal for additional protein and omega fatty acids, plus vitamin/mineral supplements (including calcium from limestone and a premix with methionine, kelp, etc.)
This kind of formulation delivers all essential nutrients (soy-free and corn-free) while also providing a unique fatty acid profile. The result is a feed that not only sustains egg production but can also enhance the nutritional profile of the eggs (for example, Hemptana reports that its formula more than doubles the lutein content of eggs, improving their value for eye health). Such high-quality feeds exemplify the nutritional benefits achievable through careful ingredient selection and formulation.
Performance Impact
The quality of feed has a direct impact on a hen’s performance and well-being. “Performance” in laying hens is often evaluated by metrics like egg production rate, feed conversion efficiency, eggshell quality, and the health and longevity of the hen. Proper feed formulation influences these areas:
- Egg Production: A hen’s egg-laying rate and consistency are highly dependent on meeting her nutritional needs. Layer hens require sufficient daily energy and protein intake to form eggs; if either is lacking, egg production will drop. For instance, diets too low in protein or deficient in critical amino acids (like lysine or methionine) can lead to fewer and smaller eggs. By feeding a balanced diet (~16–18% protein with adequate amino acids), farmers can maximize the number of eggs each hen lays. Good feeds also optimize feed conversion ratio (FCR), meaning hens produce more eggs per unit of feed consumed. In one study, replacing a portion of soybean meal with 4% hemp seed meal actually improved egg production and feed efficiency compared to higher replacement levels, indicating that well-balanced inclusion of novel ingredients can maintain or boost lay rates. Overall, providing all required nutrients “at will” (ad libitum feeding) allows hens to sustain near-daily laying without depleting their body reserves.
- Eggshell Quality and Egg Nutrients: The robustness of eggshells is directly tied to dietary calcium, vitamin D, protein, and certain trace minerals. Inadequate calcium or imbalances in calcium:phosphorus result in thin-shelled, fragile eggs that crack easily. Quality layer feeds include ample calcium (usually via limestone) so that hens can form shells ~95% calcium carbonate daily without harming their bones. Vitamin D₃ in feed ensures that calcium is absorbed and utilized for shell mineralization. When nutrition is optimal, hens lay eggs with strong shells that withstand handling and reduce losses from breakage. For example, research has noted improved shell strength in hens given hemp seed cake as part of their diet – likely because the overall mineral and protein nutrition was enhanced. In addition to shell strength, feed affects yolk quality. Adequate protein and methionine help create the tough membrane that holds the yolk, and micronutrients influence yolk composition. Certain feed ingredients also deepen yolk color and boost beneficial yolk nutrients. Diets rich in xanthophyll pigments (from ingredients like corn, marigold extract, or alfalfa) give yolks a desirable golden-orange hue. Notably, hemp-based diets have been observed to produce more richly pigmented yolks (partly due to natural carotenoids present or included with hemp ingredients). One soy-free Omega-rich feed even documented a doubling of yolk lutein (a yellow antioxidant pigment) when hens were fed a hemp and grain blend, as compared to conventional feed. This results in eggs that are not only visually appealing but also higher in nutrients like lutein and omega-3 fatty acids beneficial to consumers. A properly fortified feed produces eggs with strong shells and nutrient-dense yolks, enhancing both the quality and nutritional value of the eggs.
- Hen Health: The general health and immunity of laying hens are greatly influenced by feed quality. Hens have high nutrient turnover; if any vitamin or mineral is deficient, signs of poor health can quickly emerge. A balanced diet helps prevent common health issues. For instance, sufficient vitamin E and selenium in feed act as antioxidants that protect cell membranes, improving disease resistance. Adequate vitamins A and D support mucosal health and bone strength, respectively – reducing problems like osteoporosis or egg binding. Omega-3 fatty acids in the diet (from ingredients like hemp, flax, or fish oil) can modulate inflammation and have been associated with better cardiovascular health in poultry. Hens on diets with these functional ingredients may experience improved feather quality and reduced inflammatory conditions. Moreover, many high-end feeds include gut health promoters (probiotics or prebiotics) to enhance digestion and pathogen resistance. All these factors mean that hens fed a complete, high-quality feed typically have stronger immune systems, better plumage, and lower mortality rates. In contrast, poor nutrition (e.g. lack of key B-vitamins or minerals) can lead to ailments like fatty liver syndrome, weak legs, or susceptibility to infections. There is evidence from field trials that introducing nutrient-dense ingredients such as hempseed meal can improve certain health parameters in poultry flocks, with no negative effects observed. Notably, studies have confirmed that even when hens are fed diets containing hemp by-products, there is no transfer of any THC or cannabinoid residues into the chicken’s eggs, meat, or organs. This indicates that such novel ingredients can be used safely without harming the hen or compromising food safety. Overall, well-nourished hens are healthier hens – they handle stress better, recover faster, and continue laying reliably.
- Longevity of Production: Good nutrition helps ensure that hens have a long, productive laying period before they “burn out” or require replacement. Commercial laying hens are often kept for 60–80 weeks of age (or longer in some management systems), but to remain productive in those later cycles, their diets must prevent depletion of body reserves. For example, maintaining high calcium intake throughout prevents bone deterioration (cage layer fatigue) and allows hens to keep laying strong-shelled eggs later in life. Adequate protein and energy mean the hen doesn’t lose excessive weight over time – hens in negative energy balance will stop laying and age faster. By meeting all nutritional requirements, a feed enables hens to sustain egg production at a high rate well into the later stages of their laying cycle. Some evidence also suggests that adding certain supplements (like antioxidants or omega-3 sources) can reduce oxidative stress in hens, potentially translating to improved viability and laying persistency as hens age. In practice, flocks fed a superior diet tend to have lower cull rates and can be kept in production longer than those on subpar feed, because the birds stay healthy and continue to lay economically. Thus, proper feed formulation is not only about short-term production but also extends the productive lifespan of the hen, yielding more eggs per hen over her lifetime. This longevity benefit is a key performance and economic advantage for farmers using high-quality feeds.
Scientific Support
Each of the performance claims above is backed by scientific research in poultry nutrition. Numerous studies have investigated how feed composition affects laying hen productivity, egg characteristics, and bird health. Here we highlight findings from relevant studies and trials, including emerging research on hemp-based feed ingredients:
- Impact of Hempseed on Egg Composition: Recent peer-reviewed research confirms that incorporating hemp seeds or hemp by-products in layer diets can enrich the nutritional profile of eggs. For example, Taaifi et al. (2023) added non-industrial hemp seed to laying hen diets at 10%, 20%, and 30% inclusion and observed significant changes in the egg yolk fatty acid profile ( The Effect of Feeding Laying Hens with Nonindustrial Hemp Seed on the Fatty Acid Profile, Cholesterol Level, and Tocopherol Composition of Egg Yolk – PMC ). Eggs from hemp-fed hens had markedly higher levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially omega-3 (ALA) and omega-6, compared to control eggs. In the high-hemp group, the omega-6:omega-3 ratio in yolks dropped from about 8:1 to 4.9:1 ( The Effect of Feeding Laying Hens with Nonindustrial Hemp Seed on the Fatty Acid Profile, Cholesterol Level, and Tocopherol Composition of Egg Yolk – PMC ), moving closer to the nutritionally ideal ratio for humans (around 4:1 or lower). This indicates a much richer omega-3 content in the eggs. Additionally, the same study found that total tocopherols (vitamin E) in egg yolks increased significantly in hemp-fed hens, by around 16% in the highest inclusion group ( The Effect of Feeding Laying Hens with Nonindustrial Hemp Seed on the Fatty Acid Profile, Cholesterol Level, and Tocopherol Composition of Egg Yolk – PMC ). Importantly, the hemp seed diet did not raise egg cholesterol levels, and no deleterious effects on the hens were reported. These results demonstrate that hemp can be used to produce enhanced “functional” eggs (higher in omega-3 and vitamin E) without harming egg quality. In fact, the researchers concluded that hemp seed could be used as a feed additive to produce eggs of higher nutritive value at an affordable cost ( The Effect of Feeding Laying Hens with Nonindustrial Hemp Seed on the Fatty Acid Profile, Cholesterol Level, and Tocopherol Composition of Egg Yolk – PMC ).
- Effects on Egg Production and Quality: Studies also show that hemp feed ingredients can be included at moderate levels without detriment to hen performance and may even improve certain production parameters. A 2013 study by Kasula et al. (referenced in Taaifi’s introduction) reported that hens fed hemp seed cake exhibited increased laying performance – including a higher lay rate, heavier eggs, and improved eggshell strength – compared to hens on a conventional diet ( The Effect of Feeding Laying Hens with Nonindustrial Hemp Seed on the Fatty Acid Profile, Cholesterol Level, and Tocopherol Composition of Egg Yolk – PMC ). The eggs from the hemp-fed group in that study had a higher polyunsaturated fatty acid content, and crucially, tests found no traces of THC or cannabinoids in the eggs or hen tissues ( The Effect of Feeding Laying Hens with Nonindustrial Hemp Seed on the Fatty Acid Profile, Cholesterol Level, and Tocopherol Composition of Egg Yolk – PMC ). This provided early evidence that hemp by-products could be safely used in layers to boost egg output and quality, with no food safety concerns. More recently, a controlled trial in 2024 (Öztürk et al., published in Archiv für Tierernährung) evaluated hemp seed meal as a partial replacement for soybean meal in layer diets. In that study, replacing soy with 4% hemp seed meal resulted in comparable egg production to the control diet (no significant differences from the control group over 6 weeks) and even showed a slight improvement in feed conversion ratio (Effects of dietary local hemp seed meal as soybean meal alternative on productive performance, egg quality and yolk fatty acid composition of laying hens – PubMed). Hens on 4% hemp meal laid just as many eggs as those on a standard soy diet. At higher inclusion levels (8–12% hemp meal), egg production was slightly lower, indicating there is an upper limit to how much hemp product can be used before performance is affected (Effects of dietary local hemp seed meal as soybean meal alternative on productive performance, egg quality and yolk fatty acid composition of laying hens – PubMed). Nevertheless, even at 8–12% hemp meal, there were no adverse effects on egg weight, egg size, or feed intake (Effects of dietary local hemp seed meal as soybean meal alternative on productive performance, egg quality and yolk fatty acid composition of laying hens – PubMed). In fact, those higher hemp levels brought some benefits: the 8% and 12% hemp meal diets led to significantly heavier eggshell weights (indicating sturdier shells) and more intensely orange yolks (higher yolk color index) than the control diet (Effects of dietary local hemp seed meal as soybean meal alternative on productive performance, egg quality and yolk fatty acid composition of laying hens – PubMed). The yolks from hens fed hemp meal were also richer in omega-3 fatty acids, and the omega-6:3 ratio in their yolks decreased in proportion to the hemp meal level (Effects of dietary local hemp seed meal as soybean meal alternative on productive performance, egg quality and yolk fatty acid composition of laying hens – PubMed). This aligns with the earlier findings that hemp can enhance yolk fatty acid profiles. The takeaway from such studies is that moderate inclusion of hempseed meal (up to around 10% of the diet) can be done without hurting production, and it may improve egg quality (shell strength, yolk pigmentation) and nutritional value. Exceeding those levels may require careful formulation (due to extra fiber or slight amino acid differences), but hempseed meal clearly has potential as a feed ingredient for layers.
- Safety and Regulatory Acceptance: The safety of hemp-derived feed ingredients has been a focus of scientific scrutiny, given the cannabis origin. However, research consistently shows that feeding hemp to laying hens does not lead to any worrisome residues in the animal products. As noted, studies have found zero accumulation of THC or CBD in eggs or tissues even when hens consume hemp seed cake daily ( The Effect of Feeding Laying Hens with Nonindustrial Hemp Seed on the Fatty Acid Profile, Cholesterol Level, and Tocopherol Composition of Egg Yolk – PMC ). This evidence, along with extensive nutritional data, paved the way for regulatory approval. In 2023–2024, a consortium of industry and academic partners (the Hemp Feed Coalition, HFC) worked with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (FDA-CVM) to gather data on hemp seed meal for poultry. They demonstrated that hempseed meal is a highly nutritious ingredient rich in protein, healthy oils, vitamins, and minerals, with a nutritional profile comparable to soybean and canola meal ( Hemp seed meal approved as food source for laying hens – significantly improves egg quality : The Prowers Journal). Data from feeding trials showed significant improvement in egg quality as hempseed meal inclusion increased, including eggs enriched with omega-3 fatty acids (ALA, and even some DHA through conversion) and GLA, as well as increased lutein in yolks ( Hemp seed meal approved as food source for laying hens – significantly improves egg quality : The Prowers Journal). With safety and efficacy data in hand, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) in 2024 voted to approve a new definition for “Hemp Seed Meal” as an official feed ingredient for laying hens. This approval – with concurrence from FDA-CVM – allows hemp seed meal to be used legally in commercial layer feed in the US up to an inclusion rate of 20% of the diet ( Hemp seed meal approved as food source for laying hens – significantly improves egg quality : The Prowers Journal). (The defined product is the mechanically extracted hempseed cake/meal with <2% total THC on a dry weight basis (Hempseed meal approved for use in layer feed in the US), ensuring only very low cannabinoid varieties are used (Hempseed meal approved for use in layer feed in the US).) The fact that 48 U.S. states supported this AAFCO approval underscores the level of confidence in the scientific evidence behind hempseed meal ( Hemp seed meal approved as food source for laying hens – significantly improves egg quality : The Prowers Journal). Regulators confirmed not only its nutritional value but also that any potential cannabinoid contaminants do not carry over into eggs ( Hemp seed meal approved as food source for laying hens – significantly improves egg quality : The Prowers Journal). This milestone was heralded by the industry as a breakthrough, as it validates years of research and opens the door for feed manufacturers to incorporate hemp ingredients into layer rations. The scientific support for proper nutrition in laying hens is vast – from classical studies on amino acid requirements and calcium for shells, to cutting-edge research on novel ingredients like hemp. All evidence points to the same conclusion: formulating balanced diets with quality ingredients leads to better-performing, healthier hens and more nutritious eggs. The case of hempseed meal exemplifies how science-based approval can introduce a new ingredient that offers both performance and sustainability advantages in poultry diets.
Comparison to Traditional Feeds
Given the emerging interest in hemp-based feeds, it’s useful to compare their performance and other attributes to traditional layer feeds. Conventional layer diets typically revolve around corn (or other cereal grains) for energy and soybean meal for protein, with vitamin/mineral premixes – a combination that has been refined over decades to achieve excellent egg production. How do hemp-inclusive feeds stack up against this standard in terms of hen performance, sustainability, and digestibility?
- Hen Performance (Productivity and Egg Output): In terms of supporting egg production, hemp-based formulations can perform on par with conventional corn-soy diets when properly balanced. The protein in hempseed meal has a quality that resembles soy or canola meal, meaning it contains all essential amino acids needed by hens. Studies indicate that replacing a portion of soy with hempseed meal (up to about 10% of the total diet) does not impair egg laying rates or egg size. As noted earlier, moderate hemp inclusion maintained egg production and even improved some parameters like feed conversion and shell weight, which suggests that from a productivity standpoint, hemp can be a viable part of the diet. Traditional feeds have the benefit of a long track record – farmers know that a standard 50% corn, 25% soy (for example) layer feed with 16% protein will reliably yield high egg numbers. Hemp-based feeds are newer, but early adopters are finding similar reliability in lay rates and flock performance. Additionally, hemp’s contribution of omega-3 fatty acids means that even if hen-day egg production is the same as a traditional diet, the output quality differs favorably (omega-enriched eggs). Conventional diets usually require separate supplements (like flaxseed or fish oil) to achieve that, whereas a hemp-based diet inherently provides those beneficial fats. It’s important to note that extremely high inclusion of hemp meal (above 20%) might reduce energy density due to higher fiber, and could dilute some key amino acids, which is why current guidelines cap it at 20%. But at recommended levels, producers can expect hemp-inclusive feeds to support hen-day egg production, egg mass, and feed efficiency equivalent to traditional feeds, with the added bonus of improved egg nutritional profiles.
- Sustainability and Ingredient Sourcing: One of the biggest differences between hemp-based feeds and conventional feeds lies in sustainability and public perception. Traditional layer feed ingredients like corn and soy are efficient and cost-effective, but they come with environmental challenges. Soybean cultivation, especially in South America, has been linked to deforestation and often involves heavy use of pesticides and herbicides (in part due to widespread GMO soy varieties). Corn production can be input-intensive as well, requiring significant fertilizer and water. Hemp, on the other hand, is generally lauded as an eco-friendly crop. Industrial hemp is typically non-GMO, requires relatively fewer pesticides, and can be grown in rotation to improve soil health (its deep taproots can aerate soil and add organic matter). Hemp also has a short growing cycle and can often be produced locally or regionally, reducing transportation emissions for feed ingredients. By incorporating hemp meal (a co-product of oil extraction) into poultry feed, we create a value-added use for what is essentially an agricultural byproduct – this aligns with sustainable practice and circular economy principles. In fact, the Hemp Feed Coalition notes that hemp’s integration into animal feed can make supply chains more sustainable and provide farmers with additional crop rotation options. From a sustainability perspective, substituting part of a diet’s soy or corn with hemp ingredients can lower the feed’s overall carbon footprint and reduce reliance on commodity crops associated with environmental concerns. Moreover, feed brands like Hemptana emphasize their soy-free, corn-free formulations as a marketing point to appeal to consumers who prefer products (eggs) coming from a more natural, regenerative feed source. In summary, while conventional feeds are efficient, hemp-based feeds offer a compelling sustainability story: supporting local agriculture, reducing agrochemical reliance, and producing eggs that can be marketed as eco-friendly and enhanced with omega-3.
- Digestibility and Feed Utilization: Digestibility refers to how well chickens can break down and absorb the nutrients in the feed ingredients. Corn and soybean meal are highly digestible and have been optimized in poultry diets – soybean meal is heat-treated to deactivate anti-nutritional factors like trypsin inhibitors, yielding a very digestible protein source. Hempseed meal is also quite digestible for poultry, especially when it’s mechanically processed to moderate particle size. One advantage of hempseed meal is that it doesn’t contain the anti-nutritional compounds that raw soy does, so no extensive processing (toasting) is needed before feeding. In essence, hempseed meal is a more “natural” product – it’s typically just cold-pressed hemp cake ground into meal. The protein in hemp has good digestibility, though the presence of fiber (from hemp hulls) means its metabolizable energy is a bit lower than dehulled soybean meal. This is manageable by formulating the diet with slightly more energy from grains or oils if needed. Trials have shown that hens readily consume diets with hemp ingredients, with no drop in feed intake observed up to at least 12% inclusion. Palatability of hemp meal is good (it has a nutty aroma and flavor), and when mixed with other feed components, chickens usually cannot discern a difference. In terms of gut health, the fiber in hempseed meal could even have prebiotic effects (though more research is needed) – some farmers anecdotally report good litter quality and bird digestion on hemp-inclusive feeds. Compared to traditional feeds, a slight drawback of hemp meal is its higher crude fiber (~10-12% in hemp meal vs ~3% in dehulled soybean meal), which if overused could reduce nutrient density. But within moderate levels, this fiber is not harmful and can aid in gut motility. Digestibility trials have essentially found that hempseed meal can replace a portion of soy or other protein with no significant loss in nutrient uptake, provided diets are balanced for amino acids and energy. Also, because hempseed meal still contains some residual oil (typically 8-10% fat depending on extraction efficiency), it contributes additional energy and essential fatty acids to the diet, which are well utilized by the bird. Thus, from a feed utilization standpoint, hemp-based diets are quite comparable to conventional diets – chickens can efficiently convert them into eggs. It’s worth noting that the fatty acids from hemp (ALA, GLA) are biologically active; hens metabolize them and deposit some in eggs, and also potentially benefit from their anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional corn-soy diets lack those special fatty acids. In practice, farmers transitioning to a hemp-enriched feed have not reported any digestibility issues; manure output and consistency remain normal, indicating that the birds are digesting the feed effectively.
Hemp-based layer feeds can match traditional feeds in bird performance while offering additional benefits in egg nutrition and sustainability. They provide a palatable, digestible source of protein and fat that complements or replaces conventional ingredients. The decision to use such alternative feeds may come down to feed ingredient availability and cost – soybean meal is still often cheaper and more abundant than hemp meal on a large scale. However, as the hemp industry grows, costs may become more competitive, and the intangible benefits (marketing an “omega-3, soy-free” egg, or reducing environmental impact) can add value to the egg operation. For many progressive poultry farmers and feed formulators, the comparison tilts in favor of trying hempseed meal as part of a balanced ration, seeing it as a sustainable, functional upgrade to the standard diet rather than a compromise.
Proper nutrition for laying hens is essential for achieving optimal egg production, egg quality, and flock health. A diet that delivers the right balance of protein (with all essential amino acids), energy, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals allows hens to lay to their full potential while maintaining their body condition. The benefits of such a well-formulated feed are clear: hens lay more eggs, with stronger shells and improved internal quality; they stay healthier and experience fewer nutrition-related problems; and they can remain productive for a longer portion of their lifespan. These advantages ultimately improve the efficiency and profitability for producers, and they also enhance the quality of eggs that reach consumers (for instance, eggs enriched in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, or pigments due to the hens’ diet). Science and practical experience both support the value of investing in high-quality feed – it is a foundational aspect of successful poultry management.
Recent innovations in feed formulation, such as the inclusion of hemp-derived ingredients, illustrate how the industry is continuously evolving to improve poultry nutrition. Hempseed meal in particular has moved from a novel idea to an AAFCO-approved ingredient based on its strong nutritional profile and research-demonstrated benefits. By contributing protein, healthy fats, and fiber, hempseed meal can boost the nutritional richness of the feed (and the eggs) without sacrificing performance. In addition, its use aligns with sustainable and natural feed principles. Commercial products like Hemptana® Optimal Omega Laying Hen Feed highlight these developments – offering a soy-free, corn-free layer diet enriched with hemp that yields robust egg production and nutritionally enhanced eggs. Such feeds put into practice the concepts discussed in this paper, showing that farmers can adopt new ingredients to gain performance and marketing advantages while remaining economically and nutritionally sound.
The nutritional benefits and performance advantages of high-quality layer feed cannot be overstated. Whether using traditional ingredients or newer additions like hemp, formulating a balanced ration for laying hens is key to supporting egg output, eggshell integrity, hen health, and longevity. The latest scientific research and field results give poultry producers confidence that improving feed quality – through better ingredients and more precise nutrient levels – is a proven strategy to produce better eggs more sustainably. As consumer expectations and industry standards continue to rise, proper nutrition will remain the linchpin that connects hen well-being to productive and profitable egg production. By staying informed about nutritional advancements and embracing evidence-based feed improvements, stakeholders in the poultry industry (from feed millers to farmers) can ensure that both hens and humans benefit – with healthier flocks, superior eggs, and a more sustainable food system.
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