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Layer Minerals
Posted by Rahat Mobeen on April 29, 2025 at 10:58 amHow Much %age of granular, powder of limestone in the layer diet for better Calcium absorption?
Sulaiman Alonge replied 1 year, 1 month ago 9 Members · 9 Replies -
9 Replies
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For optimal calcium absorption in layer diets, the typical recommended range for granular or powdered limestone is around <mark>10%</mark>. This translates to a dietary calcium level of approximately 3.2 to 3.8%. While a higher calcium intake might seem beneficial, excessive levels can actually reduce feed intake and negatively impact performance.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
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Typical Range:
Layer diets often include about 10% limestone.
Calcium Content:
Limestone is primarily calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and contributes significantly to the overall calcium content of the diet.
Calcium Level:
The 10% limestone inclusion results in a dietary calcium level of around 3.2 to 3.8%.
Importance of Particle Size:
While the 10% inclusion is generally recommended, the particle size of the limestone can affect calcium absorption. Larger particles stay in the gizzard longer, allowing for better calcium absorption in the intestine.
For example, a study found that feeding commercial laying hens 3.54 g of Ca per hen per day from a low soluble limestone with larger particles was sufficient for egg production and bone status. However, the same amount of calcium from a smaller, highly soluble limestone was not adequate to maintain bone status after 50 weeks of age.
It’s important to note that the optimal calcium level and limestone particle size can vary depending on the breed of hen, age, and other factors, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a poultry nutritionist or feed supplier for specific recommendations for your flockFor optimal calcium absorption in layer diets, the typical recommended range for granular or powdered limestone is around 10%. This translates to a dietary calcium level of approximately 3.2 to 3.8%. While a higher calcium intake might seem beneficial, excessive levels can actually reduce feed intake and negatively impact performance.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Typical Range:
Layer diets often include about 10% limestone.
Calcium Content:
Limestone is primarily calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and contributes significantly to the overall calcium content of the diet.
Calcium Level:
The 10% limestone inclusion results in a dietary calcium level of around 3.2 to 3.8%.
Importance of Particle Size:
While the 10% inclusion is generally recommended, the particle size of the limestone can affect calcium absorption. Larger particles stay in the gizzard longer, allowing for better calcium absorption in the intestine.
For example, a study found that feeding commercial laying hens 3.54 g of Ca per hen per day from a low soluble limestone with larger particles was sufficient for egg production and bone status. However, the same amount of calcium from a smaller, highly soluble limestone was not adequate to maintain bone status after 50 weeks of age.
It’s important to note that the optimal calcium level and limestone particle size can vary depending on the breed of hen, age, and other factors, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a poultry nutritionist or feed supplier for specific recommendations for your flock -
Typically resulting in a dietary calcium level between 3.2 to 3.8%.
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The total dietary calcium level should be around 3-4%.
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