Effect of Beta-Aminopropionitrile on Reproduction of Chickens.

Abstract

Mono-beta-aminopropionitrile-fumarate (BAPN) at 0.03% and 0.06% of the diet of laying hens markedly reduced egg production and caused a high incidence of soft shelled and malformed eggs. BAPN at 0.01% did not affect egg production or shell formation but reduced hatchability slightly. Hatchability was reduced to 0 in 3 and 4 weeks when birds received 0.06% and 0.03% BAPN respectively, and hemorrhages were observed in 40 to 80% of the dead embryos. Following the removal of BAPN, production and hatchability increased and the number of soft shelled eggs decreased.