DESCRIPTION OF PROBLEM

Phytate (6-myo-inositol phosphate) is the main source of P present in vegetable seeds and is usually a poorly available source of P for monogastrics. In addition, phytate can interact with other nutrients present in the diet, thereby reducing mineral and protein absorption and in-creasing endogenous losses. Due to these nega-tive effects, phytate is recognized as a signifi-cant antinutrient in broiler diets [1]. Phytase is an enzyme able to hydrolyze phy-tate, releasing P for absorption and reducing the antinutritional effects of phytate. The abil-© 2014 Poultry Science Association, Inc. Influence of phytate level on broiler performance and the efficacy of 2 microbial phytases from 0 to 21 days of ag