Role of a Precision Biotic Fed to Dekalb White Laying Hens at Peak Production

This study’s objective was to determine the effects of two levels of a precision biotic (PB) within a reduced CP diet for performance parameters, digestibility, and blood biomarkers in Dekalb White laying hens from 24 to 42 weeks of age. A total of four diets were fed: 1) an industry standard positive control (PC) diet with a formulated CP level of 17.5%; 2) a negative control (NC) diet with a formulated CP level of 15.5%; 3) NC with 0.5 kg/MT PB (PB1) and 4) NC with 0.7 kg/MT PB (PB2). The NC diet had decreased hen day egg production compared to the PC diet and supplementation with both levels of PB led to intermediate levels of production. There was a similar trend for kilograms of feed per dozen eggs. Feed cost was lower in the reduced CP diets compared to PC. Apparent total tract digestibility was decreased with PB supplementation without differences in apparent ileal digestibility. Increased plasma uric acid levels in the PB2 group suggest a shift in protein metabolism toward higher efficiency in ammonia detoxification. While more research is needed on PB, this research suggests that supplementation with PB in laying hens could potentially improve performance parameters.