Phosphorus supplements

Phosphorus is the third most expensive nutrient in poultry production after energy and protein. Animal protein supplements are generally high in phosphorus, while vegetable protein supplements are low. The major portion of the phosphorus in plant feed ingredients is in the form of Phytate, the mixed salt of phytic acid (myo-inositol hexaphosphate). Phytate is found in all feedstuffs of plant origin, predominantly as magnesium-phytate complexes. Phytic acid contains about 28% phosphorus in the form of phosphoric acid. Calcium and magnesium salts of phytic acid are the phytin and are the primary storage form of phosphorus (60-90%) in plant seeds.