The enzyme phytase plays a crucial role in poultry nutrition, since it breaks down phytic acid – a component of most plant-based feed ingredients – as well as releases phosphorus and other nutrients for the birds. Thus, phytase promotes better growth and development for poultry by improving the availability of phosphorus while reducing the amount of it that is excreted in manure. In this episode, Dr. Michael Bedford discusses the use of phytase and other enzymes in poultry feed formulations to improve performance and sustainability, along with opportunities and challenges regarding the topic.
“What’s really changed is that the efficacy of the phytases along with their ability to release phosphorus and calcium have improved, so we’re seeing a better release of these nutrients from phytic acid” – Dr. Michael Bedford
