Genetic engineering of barley feed enzymes benefits laying hens

A new study published in the Plant Biotechnology Journal shows supplementation of a basal diet of laying hens with genetically engineered barley seeds, enhances protein and phosphorus digestibility and egg quality while reducing environmental impact. Reports show that about 66% of the barley seed produced in the world is used as animal feed. However, the endosperm cell walls of barley grains are characterised by the presence of β-glucans and arabinoxylans, 2 major anti-nutritional materials