Einsatz von behandelten Saatwickenkörnern (Vicea sativa L.) in der Legehennenfütterung

The common vetch is a protein-rich crop with low site requirements and therefore the potential to be a valuable component in organic crop rotations. Despite the favorable nutrient composition of its seeds, they are rarely used as feed for monogastric farm animals due to their anti-nutritive factors (ANF). To test the effect of post-harvest treatments to reduce the contents ANF and thereby improve the feed value of common vetch seeds for laying hens, a feeding trial with treated vetch seeds was conducted. Three experimental diets including common vetch seeds, either untreated, germinated, or ensiled, as well as a control diet were fed. Data documentation included feed consumption and the animals' growth and laying performance from their 20th to 36th week of Iife.