Project Abstract

Abstract
Eggs are considered as an essential protein source in human nutrition. The quality of eggs can be influenced by various factors, including storage methods. This research project aims to investigate the effect of storage methods on the egg quality and organoleptic properties of brown egg type of domestic fowl. The study will involve collecting fresh brown eggs from domestic fowl and subjecting them to different storage conditions, such as refrigeration, room temperature, and vacuum packing. The eggs will be stored for a specified period, and various quality attributes will be evaluated at different time intervals. The quality parameters that will be assessed include egg weight loss, Haugh unit, yolk color, albumen pH, and shell thickness. These parameters are crucial indicators of egg freshness and quality. In addition to these physical characteristics, the organoleptic properties of the eggs will also be evaluated, including taste, odor, and overall acceptability. By comparing the quality attributes of eggs stored under different conditions, this study will provide valuable insights into the optimal storage methods for maintaining the quality of brown eggs from domestic fowl. The findings of this research can have practical implications for egg producers, retailers, and consumers in ensuring the quality and safety of eggs throughout the storage period. Understanding the impact of storage methods on egg quality is essential for maintaining consumer satisfaction and product integrity. It can also contribute to reducing food waste by providing guidelines for proper egg storage practices. Overall, this research project will contribute to the existing knowledge on egg quality and storage methods, particularly focusing on the brown egg type of domestic fowl. The results obtained from this study can be utilized by stakeholders in the poultry industry to enhance the quality and shelf life of eggs, ultimately benefiting both producers and consumers.

Project Overview

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDYEggs (like other agricultural products) are perishable and consequently require proper and effective storage to reduce post harvest losses. Eggs are delicacies relished in both rural and urban areas with chicken eggs being the most popularly produced and consumed (Fasina et al., 2012). Eggs are highly palatable and can be prepared or utilized in a number of ways. Eggs are perfectly balanced foods containing proteins, vitamins (except vitamin C ) and minerals required for good health by both the young and old (NECC, 2014). According to FAO (2003), eggs are consumed primarily as protein sources and are considered as complete proteins because they contain all nine essential amino acids making them an excellent source of high quality protein (93.7%).Eggs come in a variety of colours (white, brown, tinted, white to tinted, blue) depending on the breed and variety of the bird (Doug et al., 2002). In Akwaibom state Nigeria, brown eggs are mostly produced and consumed. Consumers of egg pay more attention to egg shell colour though there is little or no direct relationship between shell color and nutritional characteristics/content of the egg (Scotts and Silversides, 2000).Eggs are collected and stored prior to period of consumption which could range from days to months depending on the method of storage. Common storage methods include Wet sand storage, storage in plastic trays or open bowls under room temperature, storage in sawdust, storage in polyethene bags, oiling and cold refrigeration. The latter is least practiced in Nigeria for a number of reasons but mainly due to the poor state of power supply in Nigeria and also due to ignorance as most people who own refrigerators do not think it right to store eggs in the refrigerators. Egg storage influences the rate at which eggs undergo physical and biochemical changes that lead to the reduction in egg quality thus influencing its nutritional composition and acceptability for consumption and other uses(Fasina, 2012; Mohammed, 2011; Okeudo et al, 2005; Raji, 2009; Scotts and Silversides, 2000).According to Stadelman (1986), egg quality refers to the characteristics of an egg that will affect its acceptability to the consumer. It then becomes necessary to properly store eggs in order to maintain its quality and also to derive maximum utility from consumption of eggs.1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEMCurrently, poultry production is fast becoming intensive in Nigeria and has become a dependable source of income for many farmers. With increase in poultry production and harvest of poultry products, we are faced with the pressing need to preserve poultry products- in this case- eggs to prevent or reduce post harvest losses due to spoilage and wastage.1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDYThe objectives of the study are:To examine the effect of storage methods on egg quality and organoleptic properties of brown egg type of domestic fowl in Akwa ibom state.To examine the microbial load of eggs stored under different conditions.JUSTIFICATION FOR THE STUDYThere is marked increase in poultry production in Nigeria as a result of the steady and substantial income actualized from its production particularly in layer production as eggs are gotten almost every day under proper management. This increase in productivity heralds the pressing need to effectively store and preserve poultry produce (particularly eggs as related to the study) in the hands of the producers as well as the consumers.Eggs spoil in homes due to improper storage leading to deterioration in egg quality both physically and chemically (Obi and Igbokwe, 2011). Observed changes include watery albumen, enlargement and flattening of egg yolk and air cells and absorption of off-flavours and odours (FAO, 2003; Mohammed, 2011; Scotts and Silversides, 2000).This study aims at identifying a suitable storage method that will significantly reduce the rate at which biological and physico-chemical changes occur within the egg.