Phytase use in pig diets is increasing as it is effective in improving the digestibility of phosphorus in cereal grains. Less total phosphorus is needed and phosphorus output is decreased along with feeding costs. The calcium to phosphorus ratio needs to be clarified as the diets have altered phosphorus levels. Overall levels of excreted phosphorus decreased when phytase was given, though phytase did not have an impact on whether the excreted phosphorus was water soluble. This effect was reduced when calcium levels were higher relative to phosphorus (Ca:P above 1.7:1) Phytase has modest effects on performance.
Dietary Phytase Reduces Phosphorus Excretion in Weanling Pigs (full article)
