Observations on the mineral metabolism of pullets. VII. The calcium requirement of the laying bird

Abstract

1. Evidence is presented in support of the view that theaveragedaily retention of calcium from the food by the laying fowl is of the order of 50% of the intake for average daily intakes of about 1–3·5 g. calcium.2. It is suggested that the optimal calcium requirement of the laying fowl for sustained heavy production lies in the region of 4 g. calcium daily, and that of the standards proposed by Mitchell & McClure (1937) that based on a 50% utilization is more nearly in accord with the results of metabolism experiments.