Algerian and french rapeseed meals as a protein source for caged laying hens, with observations on their toxic effects

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Abstract
Algerian and French rapeseed meals have been examined as protein sources in layers diets also containing Peruvian fishmeal and soyabean meal. The eleven experimental diets used were designed to be isonitrogenous and isocaloric with respect to metabolisable energy.Egg production on the Algerian meal was satisfactory up to the maximum level (8%) used. The French meal was satisfactory up to 6.9% but at a level of 8.6% egg, production and feed utilisation for egg production were significantly decreased.The amino acid analysis of the diets showed these to be adequate in the light of known requirements.Investigations of the thyroid, liver, kidney, adrenals and pituitary were carried out in an attempt to assess the nature of the toxic effects associated with rapeseed meal.