Adding up to 3.5% linseed oil to the feed of laying hens does not change the number of eggs they produce each day.

We analyzed the available evidence on whether adding linseed oil to chicken feed affects egg production, and what we’ve found so far suggests that including up to 3.5% linseed oil in the feed does not change the number of eggs laying hens produce each day [1]. This conclusion is based on 17 studies or assertions that support this finding, with none that contradict it. Linseed oil, also known as flaxseed oil, is sometimes added to poultry feed because it contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can influence the nutritional profile of the eggs. But the question here is not about egg quality — it’s about how many eggs the hens lay. Our review shows that even with this addition, the daily egg output remains unchanged. The studies looked at hens fed diets with linseed oil at levels up to 3.5% of their total feed, and in each case, the number of eggs per day stayed consistent with hens fed standard diets. We don’t know if higher amounts of linseed oil might have a different effect, since the evidence only covers up to 3.5%. We also don’t have data on long-term feeding or how this might affect hen health beyond egg count. But based on what we’ve reviewed so far, there’s no sign that this common feed adjustment reduces egg production. If you’re feeding linseed oil to your hens to boost omega-3 levels in the eggs, you can do so without worrying it will lower the number of eggs they lay.