To examine whether germinated wheat contributes to the protein supply of organic
chicks, pullets and hens and whether 100 % organic rations fulfil the birds’ nutrient
requirements, hens of 2 hybrids were kept in 10 pens, each comprising 19 hens and 1
cockerel, from hatching to the 40th week of life. Experimental groups were fed with
wheat sprouts (4 groups) or grains (4 groups) and 100 % organically produced
supplementary feed. Two control groups received an all mash feed with up to 15 % of
conventionally produced components.
Protein supply did not improve as only changes in starch and sugar content were
found in germinated wheat. The contents of vitamins (B1, B2, K, C) and linolenic acid
content increased during germination. No significant differences between feeding
groups or hybrid lines could be detected regarding egg yield, different measures of
egg quality and plumage condition. Under the given husbandry conditions the 100 %
organic rations resulted in excellent bird health and plumage condition and satisfactory
performance, but also in higher feed consumption and more food wastage. Biophoton
analysis showed significantly higher yolk luminescence values than for purchased
eggs from conventional systems
