Role of Phytase enzyme in Monogastric Nutrition

Plant-based feed ingredients contain more phosphorus in the form of phytate, which is indigestible, than in a digestible form. Pigs and poultry can only digest and absorb around 30-40% of the phosphorus from plant sources, while the remaining phosphorus is in the form of phytate phosphorus. Phytate not only binds phosphorus but also possesses other anti-nutritional properties that affect the feed. Since monogastric animals lack endogenous phytase enzymes, they require supplementation to improve animal welfare and production performance and to reduce phosphorus pollution.
Dr Arun Kumar
Dr Kumar is a highly experienced researcher who has been associated with the School of Agriculture and Food Science, University of Queensland, for over 28 years. During his tenure, he has conducted over 140 experiments on nutrient digestibility and production performance in broilers, layers, turkeys, pigs, and sows, primarily for multinational companies. His work has focused on developing products to enhance pig and poultry production and welfare. In 2022, Dr Kumar joined Roura's Research group at QAAFI as a Senior Research Officer. He is currently a part of AgriFuture's consortium, headed by Professor Eugeni Roura.
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