Influence of different levels of calcium, non-phytate phosphorus and phytase on apparent metabolizable energy, nutrient utilization, plasma mineral concentration and digestive enzyme activities of broiler chickens

Abstract

<p>The study investigated the effect of different levels of dietary Ca, non-phytate phosphorus (NPP) and phytase on the nutrient utilization of broiler chickens. A total of 576 day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308)were offered diets containing 3 concentrations of Ca (6, 8 or 10 g/kg diet), 2 concentrations of NPP(3 or 4 g/kg) and 2 concentrations of exogenous microbial phytase (0 or 500 FTU/kg). Diets with high Ca (10 g/kg) reduced (p < .001) the ileal digestibilities of P and protein. The digestibility of Ca and P was negatively (p < .001) affected by high Ca and low NPP (3 g/kg) diet supplemented with phytase. Phytase improved (p < .001) the digestibility of protein and P and also the retention of P and Ca. Phytase supplemented to diets containing 8 g Ca/kg improved (p < .030) the tissue protein content of jejunal mucosa, but reduced (p < .009) the Ca-ATPase activity. Supplemental phytase elevated the plasma P level, especially in birds fed diets containing 6 g/kg Ca and 4 g/kg NPP. In conclusion, phytase supplementation of diets reduced the excretion of minerals by improving their digestibilities "however, this response was dependent on the concentration of dietary Ca and NPP.</p>