Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Guinea Fowl (Numida meleagris) Eggs

Abstract

This study was initiated to compare and contrast Guniea fowl (Numida meleagris) and domestic fowl (White Leghorn - Bovans) eggs, with regard to external and internal physical characteristics and chemical composition. A total of 50 fresh eggs were collected from the two species. Standard measures were used to determine physical and chemical characteristics. Guinea fowl's eggs were significantly (P < 0.01) lower in egg weight, egg length, and egg diameter than Bovans'. There were no significant differences in shape index, while the specific gravity, shell weight and shell thickness of Guinea fowl's eggs were significantly (P<0.01) higher. Yolk and albumen weights of Guinea fowl's eggs showed significantly (P<0.01) lower values, while the albumen height, Haugh units and membrane weight were not different. Guinea fowl's eggss tended to have a high percentage of egg yolk and eggshell and lower percentage of egg albumen than Bovans'. Albumen and yolk of guinea fowl's eggs were significantly (P < 0.05) lower. Ash, nitrogen-free extract and moisture content of eggs of the two breeds were similar. It is concluded that Guinea fowl's eggs have a lower quality compared to Bovans' eggs.