Abstract:
Objective of this study was to determine
the effects of the withdrawal of vitamin trace mineral
mixture (VTM) from a broiler finisher diet
supplemented with phytase on growth performance,
visceral organ weights and feed cost. Giving a
completely randomize design in 2 (0 or 1000 FTU
phytase /Kg) * 2 (0 or 2.5 g VTM/kg) factorial
arrangement, 128 broiler chicks received one of the
four experimental diets ad libitum, from day 23-43.
Withdrawal of VTM reduced feed intake, live weight
and weight gain while increasing the relative weight of
the visceral organs. Removal of VTM reduced the tibia
length but had no effect on ash content. Costs per Kg
empty carcass and Kg of saleable carcass were lowest
when VTM free diet was supplemented with phytase.
It is concluded that, despite inferior growth
performance, withdrawal of VTM is financially
profitable if the diet is supplemented with phytase
supplemented.