Forced molting

Induced molting (or forced molting) is the practice by the commercial egg industry of artificially provoking a complete flock of hens to molt simultaneously. This is usually achieved by withdrawal of feed for 7-14 days. During the molting period, the hens go out of production for a period of at least two weeks. This has the effect of allowing the hen's reproductive tracts to regress and rejuvenate. After a molt, the hen's production rate usually peaks slightly below the previous peak rate and egg quality is improved. The point of molting is thus to increase the production, egg quality, and profitability of flocks in their second or third laying seasons. Flocks that are slaughtered after a single laying season are not molted. In the UK, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs states In no circumstances may birds be induced to moult by withholding feed and water.