New research highlights the benefits of e-coli phytase

Phytate acts as an antinutrient in the diet by binding to dietary protein forming phytate-protein complexes and trapping valuable nutrients. Research by Danisco, published in the journal Analytical Biochemistry, shows that E.coli derived phytases are significantly better at breaking down these phytate-protein complexes than fungal phytases.

Of all the phytase tested, Phyzyme XP showed the greatest efficacy. In addition, the more phytase that is included, the faster the breakdown occurs and the greater the energy and amino acid release.

Peter Plumstead, of Danisco Animal Nutrition, explained: “Phytate-protein complexes occur naturally in the upper digestive tract of animals. The investigation confirmed that under pH and temperature conditions close to those found in the upper part of the animal’s digestive tract, E.coliphytases showed higher activity in breaking down phytate-protein complexes.”

Rachel Crowe, marketing director, said: “The research is great news for pig and poultry producers. By increasing inclusion rates of Phyzyme XP, producers can achieve significantly higher energy and amino acid release values from their feed by reducing the antinutrient effects of phytate in the diet. This will also reduce costs by enabling greater use of higher phytate feed ingredients, which typically have lower prices.”