EFFECT OF PHYTASE ON THE BIOAVAILABILITY OF NUTRIENTS IN BROILERS

Abstract

The effect ofphytase on bioavailability of nutrients in broilers was tested by a biological trial. The six treatment diets contained 0.5 per cent available phosphorus ('AP}, 0.3 per cent AP, 0.4 per cent AP and these supplemented with 750 units ofphytase per kg of feed. Phytase supplementation significantly (P < 0.01) increased apparent ME, and protein digestibility. Bioavailability ofcalcium and phosphorus was improved by phytase supplementation. Phosphorus excretion was significantly (P<0.01) reduced by phytase supplementation. Based on this study it was concluded that the supplementation of phytase at the rate of 750 units per kg of low phosphorus diet improved the bioavailability of nutrients.