Trace element inhibition of phytase activity

Area of Science:

• Animal Nutrition
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Exogenous phytase and trace minerals are common in monogastric diets, often combined in premixes.
• Potential negative interactions between these components can reduce efficacy and are often overlooked.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess in vitro interactions between inorganic and organic trace minerals (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn) and commercial phytase preparations.
• To determine if enzyme inhibition depends on the type of chelated trace mineral source.

Main Methods:

• In vitro assessment of interactions between different trace mineral sources (inorganic, organic chelates) and three phytase preparations.
• Analysis of phytase inhibition based on trace mineral type, source, and concentration.

Main Results:

• A significant relationship was found between phytase inhibition, trace mineral type, source, and concentration (p < 0.001).
• Proteinate sources of trace minerals were consistently less inhibitory than most other sources (p < 0.05).
• This effect was observed for specific phytase types and minerals, like Fe, Zn, and Cu.

Conclusions:

• Different chelated trace mineral sources exhibit varying abilities to inhibit exogenous phytase activity.
• Proteinate forms of trace minerals appear to be a viable option to minimize phytase inhibition in feed premixes.