Can the use of phytase in feed improve the performance and health of broiler chickens?

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of phytase supplementation on feeds with reduced nutritional calcium and phosphorus on broiler chickens from 1 to 49 days of age. Chickens fed five experimental diets distributed in a completely randomized design, with eleven replicates of 20 chickens each, were used for evaluating performance, bone quality, and serum mineral levels. The diets consisted of one positive control (PC); one negative control (NC), with reduced levels of available phosphorus and calcium; and four diets consisting of NC feed supplemented with phytase at levels 0, 500, 1000, or 1500 U/kg. Supplementation with 1000 FU/kg of phytase in diets based on corn, and soybean meal is ideal for obtaining excellent performance and bird welfare results reducing nutrient excretion and improving digestion and absorption of nutrients by the animal.