How to increase egg production in hens? Incorporate hemp seed cake
Author: Lucie Garabasova
In modern agriculture, high-quality nutrition plays a key role not only in the health of farm animals but also in their productivity. Poultry farmers are constantly looking for innovative supplements to support the overall condition of their hens and boost egg production, especially during autumn and winter when there is less daylight and grass, which can negatively impact laying performance. So how can you increase egg production in hens? Incorporate hemp seed cake – a byproduct of hemp oil production, rich in protein, essential amino acids, fiber, and antioxidants. Let’s take a closer look at how this natural supplement can benefit your hens.
What is Hemp Seed Cake?
Hemp seed cake is a residual product obtained during the pressing of hemp seeds for oil extraction. This material, which might otherwise be considered waste, is a true treasure for poultry farmers because:
- It contains high-quality protein: Supports growth, regeneration, and overall tissue development.
- It is rich in essential amino acids: Necessary for proper immune system function.
- It has a high fiber content: Aids digestion and contributes to a healthy gut microbiome.
- It contains antioxidants: Protects cells and improves the body's resistance to stress.
Benefits of adding Hemp Seed Cake to hen feed
By incorporating hemp seed cake into your hens' diet, you can expect several advantages:
- Increased egg production: A balanced diet rich in protein and essential nutrients supports more frequent laying and improves egg quality.
- Overall health and immunity support: Antioxidants and other bioactive compounds strengthen the immune system, reducing disease incidence and increasing birds' resilience.
- Improved digestion: The fiber in hemp seed cake promotes proper digestive function, enhancing nutrient absorption efficiency.
- Eco-friendly and sustainable choice: Utilizing a byproduct of hemp oil production supports a circular economy and reduces waste.
What do studies say?
Study from Mendel University (2022)
An experiment at Mendel University in Brno demonstrated that hens whose diet was enriched with hemp seed cake showed a 10–15% increase in egg production over six weeks. In addition to higher egg yield, researchers observed an overall improvement in health and a reduced incidence of digestive issues.
Research by the Czech Agricultural Institute (2023)
A study conducted by the Czech Agricultural Institute confirmed that integrating hemp seed cake into hen feed leads to better condition and metabolic stabilization. The results showed not only increased egg production but also overall healthier flocks, allowing farmers to reduce veterinary costs.
How to add Hemp Seed Cake to hen feed
The method of feeding depends on the form of the hemp seed cake. If it’s in powder form, you can mix it directly into the feed without soaking (although slightly moistening it can improve consumption and digestion).
If you have flakes or pellets, they need to be soaked before feeding. Hemp seed cake softens very quickly—if you're short on time, soaking it in hot water will turn it into a soft mash almost instantly, ready for your hens to eat.
OUR TIP: When poultry farmers ask us if we have something to boost their hens' immunity—against coughs, for example—we recommend hemp tea. Simply brew it and use it to soak the hemp seed cake. Proven results in strengthening hen immunity can be seen within just a few days of use.
Personal Experiences with feeding hens Hemp Seed Cake
Lucie – Breeder of USA Silkie Hens
On our ranch, along with other animals, we also keep USA Silkie hens (as well as regular chickens). Anyone familiar with this breed knows that they are far from being classified as "layers"—quite the opposite. While they are excellent mothers with a strong brooding instinct, they don’t lay many eggs. However, things are different for us! Ever since I started adding hemp seed cake to their feed every evening, we have been collecting 50% more eggs. I am convinced that the seed cake plays a crucial role in this.
Lukáš – Backyard Chicken Farmer
We have been raising backyard hens for several years, and every winter, their laying naturally declines. This has always frustrated me because I love fresh eggs and hate buying them from stores. This winter, I decided to try feeding them hemp seed cake, and guess what? The usual "pause" I was expecting never happened!
A sustainable and Effective solution for healthier hens and more eggs
By incorporating hemp seed cake into your hens' diet, you gain an innovative, eco-friendly, and sustainable way to support their health and increase egg production. The rich nutritional profile of this byproduct from hemp oil production contributes to better bird condition, which directly translates into higher egg yield.
If you decide to try this approach, you may reduce feed costs while also supporting sustainable farming.