Storage of the Eggs of the Fowl (Gallus domesticus) before Incubation: A Review

SummaryThe literature relating to storage of hatching eggs prior to incubation is reviewed under 5 headings:— 1. Storage time—prolonged storage leads to reduced hatchability and also produces a longer incubation time, an increase in various morphological abnormalities of the embryo, and poorer chick quality and performance.2. Temperature—in general, the longer the storage period the lower the storage temperature. Pre-warming of eggs during storage improves hatchability when the eggs are stored for long periods.3. Relative humidity—high relative humidity produces optimum hatchability providing condensation does not occur.4. Controlled atmospheric storage—enclosing eggs in plastic and flushing the eggs with nitrogen both improve hatchability.5. Orientation and positional changes—storing eggs in the small-end-up position contributes to improvements in hatchability.