In a study published in the renowned journal Animal Nutrition, the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences at the University of Debrecen, Hungary, has advanced our understanding of how nutritional supplementation during the embryonic stage can improve poultry performance. The research focused on methionine (Met) added directly into the egg – a technique known as in‑ovo feeding – and its impact on intestinal development, immune function, and antioxidant capacity in both laying hens and broiler hybrids.
What Is In-Ovo Feeding and Why It Matters
In‑ovo feeding involves injecting nutrients or biologically active compounds into the egg before hatching. Historically used for vaccination, this approach now offers a way to boost the embryo’s own nutrition, laying the groundwork for stronger, healthier chickens from day one. Early research in the 1940s and 1980s demonstrated that boosting certain amino acids in the egg could enhance digestive tract development. Today, the technique is increasingly applied to deliver amino acids, vitamins, or functional additives such as antioxidants directly where they are needed most.
Key Benefits Identified by Debrecen Researchers
- Improved intestinal morphology – Both DL‑methionine and L‑methionine injections increased villi height and crypt depth, indicating better nutrient absorption capacity.
- Enhanced antioxidant defense – Particularly in the native Hungarian fawn‑coloured hen, injected methionine raised levels of glutathione and superoxide dismutase.
- Strengthened immune response – Gene expression linked to immune modulation, such as cytokine production, peaked in embryos receiving methionine.
- Consistent effects across genotypes – While broiler hybrids grew faster overall, both lineages responded positively to the supplementation.
Differences Between DL-Methionine and L-Methionine
Methionine is an essential amino acid, crucial for protein synthesis and sulfur transfer in animals. Commercially, it is available in two main forms: DL‑methionine (a racemic mixture) and the naturally occurring L‑methionine. In poultry, the body can convert the D‑isomer to the L‑form, but efficiency varies. The Debrecen study found that DL‑methionine was slightly more effective at enhancing intestinal health in the short term, yet both forms similarly influenced gene expression related to immunity and oxidative stress.
Implications for Producers
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Broilers – Faster growth and a robust immune system translate to higher productivity and fewer infectious disease outbreaks.
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Laying hens – Better antioxidant status reduces oxidative damage and can extend productive lifespan, ultimately improving egg quality and yield.
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– Native breed lines, such as the fawn‑colored Hungarian hen, retained high antioxidant capacity, indicating that in‑ovo methionine could help safeguard genetic diversity.
Practical Steps to Implement In-Ovo Methionine Supplementation
Adopting the technique requires careful coordination between hatcheries, feed manufacturers, and scientific advisors. Here’s a streamlined guide:
- Consult with a veterinary nutritionist. Determine the optimal dosage based on the breed and desired performance metrics.
- Equip hatchery with sterile injection units. The procedure must be performed under strict aseptic conditions to prevent embryonic contamination.
- Prepare methionine solutions. DL‑ or L‑methionine should be dissolved in isotonic saline at the calculated concentration (typically 1–2 mg per egg).
- Inject into the amnion. The amnion is the membrane surrounding the embryo; precise placement ensures distribution without damaging the embryo.
- Monitor embryo viability. Post‑injection, record hatchability rates and any visible abnormalities.
- Evaluate performance. Measure weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), immunogenic markers, and antioxidant capacity over the production cycle.
- Document results. Use this data to refine dosages and identify genotype‑specific responses.
Scaling this intervention is feasible once a baseline protocol is established. Because the technique is applied before the egg leaves the hatchery, it integrates seamlessly into existing production workflows.
Challenges and Considerations
While promising, several practical barriers exist:
- Initial setup costs. Investment in injection equipment and training can be high but is offset by long‑term productivity gains.
- Regulatory approvals. Some jurisdictions require approval for any substance added to eggs, even for embryonic use.
- Genotype differences. Results from the University of Debrecen show variability across hybrid and native lines, underscoring the need for genotype‑specific dosing studies.
How the University of Debrecen Supports Industry Adoption
The research team at Debrecen has partnered with multiple faculties to create a proof‑of‑concept project aimed at commercial-scale validation. These collaborations focus on translating lab findings into real‑world hatchery practices, ensuring that the benefits of methionine supplementation reach producers nationwide.
Action Summary for Poultry Producers
- Evaluate whether in‑ovo methionine can complement your existing feeding strategy.
- Initiate a pilot program in your hatchery, testing both DL‑ and L‑methionine across your key breeds.
- Collect data on hatchability, growth performance, and health indicators.
- Use results to adjust dosage and confirm cost‑effectiveness.
- Consider engaging with the University of Debrecen for technical support or co‑development opportunities.
By incorporating the latest scientific evidence on nutritional supplementation during incubation, producers can elevate poultry health and productivity while staying ahead of industry standards. This step is part of a broader movement toward precision nutrition at the embryonic stage, a frontier that experts at the University of Debrecen continue to advance.
Submit your application today to participate in the next graduate program focused on poultry nutrition at the University of Debrecen.
Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how in‑ovo feeding can fit into your production system.
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