Eggshell damage costs the global egg industry more than $6 bln a year

The global egg industry loses more than $6 bln annually due to eggshell integrity problems. Shell damage remains a significant issue in industrial poultry production, as it directly affects both marketability and hatchability.

One of the causes is disruption in the synthesis of the shell’s organic matrix, which reduces its strength and elasticity. As a result, the share of broken and cracked eggs increases and may reach 20% by the end of the laying cycle.

The problem also has a major impact on hatchery operations. According to published estimates, up to 6.4% of broiler hatching eggs are not set for incubation specifically because of shell damage.

In global hatchery practice, broken eggs are generally not incubated because of the high risk of dehydration and penetration by pathogenic microorganisms. At the same time, eggs with microcracks and star cracks are not always removed from incubation in some countries due to economic or production considerations.

In Ukraine, regulations prohibit the incubation of eggs with certain defects, including cracked shells. Therefore, shell strength remains an important factor in the economic efficiency of both egg and broiler production.

Tags: global market, chicken eggs, Eggshell