PRODUCTIVE, SANITARY, AND WELFARE INDICATORS IN NON-CONVENTIONAL LAYING HEN SYSTEMS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63330/aurumpub.059-003Keywords:
Agricultural economics, Biosecurity, Laying hens, Production chain, Zootechnical managementAbstract
The laying poultry sector has undergone a significant transition from conventional systems to non-conventional production models, driven by demands related to animal welfare, sustainability, and product quality. This study aimed to critically analyze the scientific evidence regarding the effects of non-conventional laying hen rearing systems on productive, sanitary, and animal welfare indicators. This is an integrative literature review conducted in the PubMed database, covering studies published between 2015 and 2025. A total of 52 studies were selected after applying previously defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were systematically extracted and analyzed through qualitative synthesis, addressing productive, sanitary, and welfare outcomes. The results indicated that non-conventional systems have variable effects on productivity, with performance being maintained in some cases, although with greater variability compared with conventional systems. Greater expression of natural behaviors and improvements in welfare indicators were also observed, although these were accompanied by sanitary challenges, such as increased exposure to environmental pathogens. It is concluded that non-conventional egg production systems involve a complex balance among productivity, health, and animal welfare, being strongly influenced by the management practices adopted. This study contributes by critically integrating these three axes, offering a comprehensive view of the available evidence and highlighting the need for more sustainable and integrated production strategies.
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