Skeletal integrity of laying hens throughout the laying cycle has always been important, but cage-free systems allow for more bird activity which brings new challenges.One of the major welfare issues facing the egg industry is the high incidence of keel bone fractures or deformities in cage-free and cage housing systems. Bone fractures are not only welfare concerns, but also can negatively affect egg production. In particular, keel fractures account for 90 percent of bone breaks in alternative housing systems at end of lay.
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