Effect of dietary inclusion of ascorbic acid and palm oil on the performance of laying hens in a hot tropical environment

1. Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of including ascorbic acid (AA), palm oil or a combination of both in the diets of laying hens during the hot months in a tropical environment.

2. The inclusion of AA improved egg production, food intake and efficiency of utilisation, and decreased the cost of food per kg egg. The addition of 400 mg AA/kg diet gave the most efficient performance.

3. Palm oil inclusion reduced the effect of heat stress and increased egg production, egg weight, food intake and efficiency of utilisation.

4. When 200 mg AA and 50 g palm oil/kg were used, additive responses were obtained with further improvements in egg production, food cost and efficiency.

5. Ascorbic acid and palm oil when fed alone or in combination reduced the incidence of cracked eggs.

6. Thus, 400 mg ascorbic acid/kg of diet, 50 g palm oil or 200 mg AA plus 50 g palm oil/kg diet ameliorated the effects of heat stress in laying hens.