Organic Acids as Feed Additive in Pig and Poultry Diets: A Review

Abstract

A review was carried on the potentials of organic acids as feed additive in the diets of poultry and pigs. Organic acids (as acetic, butyric, citric, formic and propionic acids) or their salts (calcium formate and sodium butyrate) are weak carboxylic acids that occur naturally in fruits but could be synthesized and manufactured in commercial quantity. They exhibit certain properties which could make them unique as growth promoters in monogastric animals. Organic acids are antimicrobial in action reducing bacteria and fungi both in the feed and in the gastro intestinal tract. Their ability to reduce gram negative pathogenic bacteria in the gut reduces fermentation in the gut thereby improving digestibility, nutrient absorption and utilization. Other areas organic acids could enhance animal productivity is their ability to induce endogenous secretions such as gastric hydrochloric acid, enzymes, bile and mucus. They also function to increase the number and height of the villi and reduce both the crypt depth and digesta viscosity. High level in the feed could reduce feed intake and growth. They could be corrosive to feed mixers, feed bins, silos, feeding and could also pose health problems to farm and feed mill attendants. Keywords : feed additive, pig, poultry, and organic acids.