Phytase use in pig feed : a real profitability boost

Phytase’s rapid growth has resulted mainly from its acceptance as an economically viable and scientifically proven replacement for expensive inorganic phosphates. While an increasing understanding of the impact of phytate on dietary amino acid and energy digestibility has also led to a greater appreciation of the value of phytase application beyond phosphorus and calcium release, this is still a very important phytase function, particularly for sows and piglets. The number of piglets born per litter today is around 12 for first litter gilts, increasing to around 15 in parities four or later1. Five parities are considered to be the optimum number to maximise sow profitability2. With this high level of productivity, it's not difficult to predict that such an intensive cycle, could result in dietary deficiencies. Research comparing the bone mineral reserves of sows over three parities with non-reproducing gilts of a similar age demonstrated that most minerals but in particular calcium and phosphorus were reduced over time and particularly during late gestation and lactation3. Depressed sow milk production, growth rate, poor feed efficiency and reduced carcass muscle are just some of the effects of calcium and phosphorus deficiency, and all of these factors impact producer profitability. Most importantly, a deficiency of calcium and phosphorus will result in demineralisation of bones, which can lead to osteoporosis in sows and signs of clinical rickets in younger pigs. This in turn causes fractures or paralysis of the hind legs, as well as lameness and foot/leg problems4, particularly in heavy milking sows during late lactation (‘downer sow’ condition). It has been shown that bone mineralisation issues can also indirectly cause reproductive failure, the largest cause of a sow being culled Phytase use in pig feed: a real profitability boost