Phytase supplementation to reduce phosphorus excretion of broilers

This study evaluated the replacement value of supplemental Natuphos for ino rganic phosphorus in broiler diets. Four levels of dicalcium phosphate were compared: 25, 50, 75, and 100% of the level required to supply 0.47% and 0 .45% available P in wheat/corn/soybean meal starter and grower diets, respe ctively (referred to as control levels). Natuphos (a commercial phytase) wa s added at 0, 50, 100, and 150% of the recommended dosage (600 FTU/kg). The results of this study indicate that even without Natuphos supplementation, the level of dicalcium phosphate in the diet can be reduced to 75% of the control level without a loss in body weight gain or feed conversion. This r epresented a reduction in total phosphorus from 0.72 to 0.64%. A further re duction in total phosphorus to 0.56% was possible with Natuphos supplementa tion at 50% of the recommended dosage. Broilers on such a diet excreted one third less P than those on the control diet. An increase in Natuphos suppl ementation (i.e., 100 and 150% of recommended dose) yielded no further incr ease in the replacement value of Natuphos for dicalcium phosphate.