The efficacy of a phytase enzyme fed to Hy-Line W-36 laying hens from 32 to 62 weeks of age

Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for laying hens that is involved in numerous body functions, including skeletal formation and maintenance, energy storage, cellular structure, and egg formation. In cereals and oilseeds commonly fed in layer rations, P is primarily stored as phytate P and is poorly utilized by poultry because of the lack of phytase present in the gut [1]. Much research has been conducted concerning the phytate compound and approaches to meet the birds’ requirement for nonphytate P (NPP) more effectively. Phytase enzymes are commonly added to laying hen diets to reduce feed costs and to reduce P excretion for environmental benefits. The recommendation for laying hen diets is 0.25% available P (AP) or 250 mg/hen per day [2], but levels much higher than this amount are © 2011 Poultry science association, Inc.