Yolk Fatty Acid Profile and Amino Acid Composition in Eggs from Hens Supplemented with ß-Hydroxy-ß-Methylbutyrate

In recent years, a supplementation of livestock animals, including poultry, with beta-Hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) has gained attention for its effects on protein and fat metabolism. This study investigates the effects of HMB in the laying hen diet on egg quality, focusing on amino acid and fatty acid composition. Laying hens were supplemented with 0.02% HMB, with performance parameters and egg components analyzed. HMB supplementation led to increased albumen weight, influencing egg weight while also reducing feed intake per egg without affecting laying rate, yolk indices, fat, or cholesterol content. Notably, the study revealed significant changes in egg amino acid and fatty acid profiles due to HMB supplementation. Various amino acids, including glycine, serine, and isoleucine, were altered in the yolk, impacting nutritional value and potential health benefits. Regarding fatty acids, the study observed changes in both saturated as well as n-6 and n-3 fatty acids, affecting the overall lipid profile of egg yolks. However, the shifts in fatty acid composition could have implications for cardiovascular health due to altered ratios of n-6/n-3 fatty acids. Further research is required to comprehensively understand the implications of these findings for consumer-oriented egg quality and health benefits.

Automated summary

This study investigates the effects of HMB supplementation in the diet of laying hens on egg quality, particularly focusing on changes in amino acid and fatty acid composition. The results show that HMB supplementation leads to alterations in egg amino acid and fatty acid profiles, impacting the nutritional value and potentially affecting cardiovascular health due to changes in the ratios of n-6/n-3 fatty acids. HMB supplementation does not significantly affect egg weight, laying rate, yolk indices, fat content, or cholesterol.