Effects of supplementing laying rations with certain B‐complex Vitamins1

Synopsis Two tests, using commercial White Leghorn layers and simplified rations, were conducted to determine the need for certain supplemental B‐vitamins. Varying levels of a multiple supplement (containing riboflavin, pantothenic acid, niacin and choline) were used in the first test. A factorial arrangement of treatments, using single and combination additions of riboflavin, pantothenic acid and niacin, was employed in the second test. During the first test all supplemental vitamin levels resulted in a highly significant increase in egg production and egg size. The lowest dietary supplemental vitamin level was just as adequate as higher levels. Food consumption, body weight gain, viability and specific gravity of eggs were not significantly affected by B‐vitamin fortification. Riboflavin supplementation resulted in a significant increase in egg production in the second test. The specific gravity of eggs was significantly decreased due to riboflavin supplementation. The addition of niacin and pantothenic acid to the basal ration did not significantly influence performance. Riboflavin was the only vitamin which exerted an appreciable influence on egg size during the second test.