Non-Parametrical Canonical Analysis of Quality-Related Characteristics of Eggs of Different Varieties of Native Hens Compared to Laying Lineage

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to characterize the productive capability of Utrerana and to compare the relationships among parameters determining the internal and external quality of the egg, through canonical correlation analysis. A flock of 68 Utrerana hens and a control group of Leghorn hens (n = 17) were housed individually to allow individual identification of eggs and for the assessment of egg quality characteristics. Almost all variables showed differences when both breeds were compared, except for white height, yolk diameter, yolkL* and yolk pH (p > 0.05). Only minor diameter, white height, yolkL*, yolka*, and shell weight reported significant differences between laying age groups. White height, yolk color, and almost all yolk color coordinates were significantly different (p < 0.05) for period and month. Egg and white weight reached highest significantly different levels for the fourth and fifth time that the hens laid an egg. External quality-related traits are better predictors of internal quality-related traits than vice versa, enabling the implementation of an effective noninvasive method for internal quality determination and egg classification aimed at suiting the needs of consumers.

Sexual Dimorphism for Coping Styles Complements Traditional Methods for Sex Determination in a Multivariety Endangered Hen Breed

“…All the fowls were reared according to the regulations of the European Union (2010/63/EU) in their transposition to the Spanish law (RD 53/2013). Further information regarding the rearing system used can be consulted in González Ariza, et al [50].…”

Sensory Preference and Professional Profile Affinity Definition of Endangered Native Breed Eggs Compared to Commercial Laying Lineages’ Eggs

“…European consumers prefer darker yolks, given the psychological healthier egg qualities misattribution. Observers scored Utrerana yolk color and odor significantly higher, which may be based on Utrerana’s acknowledged darker yolk color when compared to laying lineages’ yolk color [4]. The higher pigmentation found in some strains may be due to different genetic capabilities to absorb and deposit pigments in yolk [30].…”

“…The on-plate broken egg visual values were significantly lower in commercial eggs than ecologic and Utrerana eggs. This suggests that the Utrerana egg’s higher proportion of yolk and a darker yolk [4] would have a greater market acceptability. Panelists agreed very much on the whole egg visual value, as previously reported [4].…”

“…Nest box substrate consisted of plastic turf mats covering the floor at a depth of approximately 1 cm. Further information regarding maintenance system of Leghorn Lohmann LSL-Classic lineage commercial hens and Utrerana native breed can be found in González Ariza et al [4].…”

“…However, consumer tastes constantly evolve towards the obtainment of quality food products with special properties, aimed at a specialized market and obtained through sustainable production systems [3]. In this context, Utrerana eggs have shown to have differentiated internal and external characteristics from commercial line eggs [4]. Hence, the need for animal genetic resources proper conservation has greatly increased, since these resources present economic, scientific and cultural interests [5].…”