The Use of Various Vitamin Supplements in Rations for Laying and Breeding Hens

Abstract

DRIED skimmilk and alfalfa leaf meal have been used as the primary sources of water soluble vitamins in laying and breeding rations that are composed largely of grains, grain by-products and high protein feeds. The scarcity and cost of these materials, the milk products in particular, makes it essential that we evaluate other supplements as possible sources of water soluble vitamins for poultry rations. Fish solubles, a by-product of the fishing industry, is one such product. Riboflavin is also now available in crystalline form and the proper way to use this vitamin should be determined.Clandinin, Traves and Henderson (1942) reported that crystalline riboflavin satisfactorily replaced dried buttermilk in breeding rations composed of ground cereals, cereal by-products, alfalfa meal, fish meal, mineral sources and fish oil. Bird and Marvel (1943) have also reported that riboflavin is the only supplement essential in a breeding ration composed of ground cereal, cereal by-products, .