Dr. Darrin Karcher of Purdue University recently completed a trial sponsored by the USPOULTRY Foundation to evaluate the effect of pulsed alternating wavelength lighting on caged hens.  It was demonstrated that hens subjected to the lighting system demonstrated reduced serotonin turnover ratios suggesting less stress.  Further evaluation will be necessary to determine whether there is any beneficial effect on skeletal integrity through the laying cycle.  The lighting system had no effect on the mineral content of bones or on feathering.

All that can be concluded from the initial trial is that pulsed alternating wavelength lighting has no obvious deleterious effect.  The study did not take into account the relative economics of pulsed alternating wavelength illumination compared to alternatives including dimmable LEDs, compact fluorescent bulbs or other systems.  It is noted that the trials were conducted on a commercial farm with caged hens.  The system may have greater benefits in aviary systems given that the stress and potential for keel damage is greater than in this housing system.