Improving Phosphorus Utilization

Several chick studies were conducted to further evaluate the effects of feeding citric acid on phytate phosphorus utilization. In one experiment, graded levels (0-4%) of citric acid were evaluated in a diet containing 0.18% phytate. Results showed tibia ash increased linearly as citric acid increased and the average increase in bone ash from feeding 3% citric acid was 41%. These studies confirm the effectiveness of citric acid in increasing phytic phosphorus in commercial broiler chicks.

Rafacz-Livingston, K.A. and co-workers. 2005. Citric acid improves phytate phosphorus utilization in crossbred and commercial broiler chicks. Poultry Sci. 84(9): 1370-1375.