Enhancing Phosphorus Utilization for Better Animal Production and Environment Sustainability

Phosphorus (P) is a key element in farm animal productivity and has a close relationship with calcium and vitamin D. Major part of P in feeds of plant origin is in the form of phytate which is not degraded in gut of monogastric animals and excreted in faeces contributing to environmental pollution. Studies have shown that exogenous supplementation of phytase enzyme to diet will improve phytate utilization. Genetic studies have proven the efficacy of low phytate grain with high available P content. Combination of phytase enzyme supplementation with use of low phytate feed ingredients is a practical and effective method of enhancing P utilization in monogastrics. Improved manure management to effectively recycle nutrients including P, needs further efforts to minimize pollution.