Organic acid supplementation influence nutrient digestibility and absorption efficiency in broilers and pigs

1/20/20261 min read

Organic acid supplements are widely used in poultry and swine nutrition to enhance nutrient digestibility and absorption efficiency. These acids, such as formic, lactic, and citric acid, lower gastrointestinal pH, creating an environment that favours beneficial microbial populations and inhibits pathogenic bacteria (Davis et al., 2013). The reduction in gut pH improves enzymatic activity, leading to increased breakdown of nutrients, particularly proteins and carbohydrates (Gadde et al., 2017). Organic acids also enhance the solubilization of minerals like calcium and phosphorus, facilitating better mineral absorption (Li et al., 2018). In broilers, supplementation has been shown to improve feed conversion ratios and growth performance due to improved nutrient utilization (Khan et al., 2019). Similarly, in pigs, organic acids have been reported to improve digestibility of crude protein and energy, contributing to better growth rates (Ramalho et al., 2015). The antimicrobial effect of organic acids reduces gut pathogen load, which otherwise impairs nutrient absorption, thereby indirectly promoting nutrient uptake (Mroz et al., 2010). Organic acids may also influence the structure and function of the intestinal mucosa, increasing surface area for absorption (Selle et al., 2016). Additionally, they can modify the gut microbiota composition, favouring beneficial bacteria that assist in nutrient fermentation and absorption (Gao et al., 2019). Organic acid supplementation appears to significantly enhance nutrient digestibility and absorption efficiency in broilers and pigs, leading to improved growth performance and feed efficiency (Yin et al., 2020).

Promois International (www.promoisinternational.com) is one of the best-known manufacturers of encapsulated organic acid blends.