A Comparison Between Chemical Determination for Xanthophylls and Yolk Pigmentation Scores for Yellow Corn, Alfalfa, Algae, Lake Weed, and Marigold Petals

Abstract

THE importance of being able to predict the yolk color that will be obtained with different combinations of pigments cannot be overemphasized. Earlier work on this subject has been reviewed by Madiedo and Sunde (1964). Computers now can change the formula for the laying feed frequently. If the chemical assays for xanthophyll in different feed ingredients can be modified in such a way that the chemical results obtained would agree with the biological values found with laying hens, then this procedure would be simplitied and made more reliable. The data in the experiments to be reported point out that this is possible and that generally the highest chemical values one obtains will agree with the biological values determined using the laying hen. Jenson (1963) has reported on the chemical analysis of sea weed and its effect on certain pigments in the egg yolk. The experimental methods used…