Evaluation of Marigold Flower and Orange Skin as Sources of Xanthophyll Pigment for the Improvement of Egg Yolk Color

Abstract

The efficacy of ground marigold flower and orange skin was evaluated for egg yolk coloration. Two feeding trials were conducted. The first trial was carried out with 63 laying pullets (Shaver 579) that received 0, 40g marigold flower and 40g orange skin per kg of mixed feed in three dietary treatments. Each of the treatments comprised of 21 birds distributed to three replicate groups each of seven. The second trial was conducted with 84 laying pullets of the same genetic source that received 0, 40g marigold flower, 40g orange skin and 30mg synthetic pigment in four dietary treatments each having number of birds and replicates similar to trial 1. All birds received identical care and management including diets of more or less similar in composition. Yolk color scores were measured using Roche yolk color fan and other egg quality characteristics and production performance were recorded simultaneously. The noteworthy findings are i) egg yolk color significantly improved and reached to a level of consumers' standard by feeding 40g/kg marigold flower and ii) egg yolk color was slightly improved by feeding 40g/kg orange skin as compared to wheat-based control diet. It was concluded that yolk color in laying pullets may be improved by feeding both orange skin or marigold flower but the latter ingredient appeared to be most effective.