The College of Agriculture discussed a PhD thesis titled:
"Effect of Potato Starch Industry Waste with/without Enzyme Mixture as Partial Substitute for Yellow Corn on Productive Performance and Blood Biochemical Traits of Laying Hens."
Thesis Overview
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Researcher: Alaa Yassin Taha
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Objective:
Study the effect of partially replacing yellow corn with potato starch waste (with/without enzyme mixture) as an energy source on:-
Production performance
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Egg quality traits
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Blood biochemical parameters
in brown Lohmann laying hens.
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Methodology
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Tested replacement levels: 50% and 75% potato starch waste
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Added enzyme mixture (protease, amylase, xylanase) to enhance digestibility
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Monitored over 10-week production cycle
Key Findings
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Significant improvements in all studied traits at both replacement levels (50% and 75%) when combined with enzymes:
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↑ Feed conversion ratio (FCR)
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↑ Egg production rate (+8.3% at 75% replacement)
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↑ Eggshell thickness and Haugh units (egg quality)
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Enhanced nutrient utilization:
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↓ Serum cholesterol and triglycerides
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↑ Calcium and phosphorus retention
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Without enzymes:
Reduced performance at >50% replacement
Significance
Demonstrates sustainable use of potato processing waste to:
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Reduce feed costs by replacing 50-75% corn
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Maintain hen productivity with enzyme supplementation
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Address environmental waste management challenges
