In the life of laying hens, there are several crucial periods that will determine the success of a farmer. If that period can be passed with good nutrition and exemplary management implementation, it is likely that the farmer will get good layer production performance.

For this reason, Behn Meyer Animal Nutrition division held a special webinar Roadshow for East Java, Central Java and Jabodetabek farmers. The Roadshow was held from 24 March to 14 April 2022, with the main speaker being Dr Hasbullah Abdurahman (MSc, PhD), Senior Technical Specialist in the Farms & Premixers Department of the Animal Nutrition division.

In his presentation, Dr Hasbullah, more fondly known as Has, explained the importance of paying attention to the first five weeks of a chicken's age. "At this first five weeks, the development of vital organs and frame will take place," he said. "If this golden period can be adequately passed, it is possible for farmers to get laying hens with ideal body weight. As a result, egg production can be optimal."

In addition, it is also necessary to pay attention to the lighting programme. 'Laying hens are more sensitive to the lighting change than the lighting duration,' said Has. This will influence the feed intake of the chicken.

In line with the lighting programme, Has also presented the "Empty Feeder Technique". The goal is to make sure the chickens eat all the required nutrients in the feed every day to ensure the sufficiency of calcium during the calcification process. The method requires farmers to provide the "main feed" 6 to 8 hours before dark. The feed, including small particles of vitamins and minerals, must be finished in the morning. Farmers are to empty the feeder for 1.5 to 3 hours in the middle of the day, then provide the "main feed" afterwards.

Has also explained that recording is an important monitoring tool for farmers. Without recorded data, it is very risky to determine the steps to be taken if a problem occurs. With well-recorded data, we can find the right solution. For example, if there is a calcium deficiency, this will affect bone formation. Calcium is also an essential mineral for eggshell formation. This is the main focus of Angga Galih Pradana, Sales Executive from PT Behn Meyer Animal Nutrition division, who appeared as the second speaker.

According to Angga, calcium is the most abundant mineral in a poultry's body. "About 99% of this mineral is stored in the bones, while only 1% calcium is available in their body fluids, like blood.” "Besides affecting the eggshell, calcium is also needed for heart muscle contraction and nerve transmission,” said Angga.