Ludke et al., 2002. Rev. Bras. Zootec., 31 (5): 2002-2010

The efficiency of different levels of phytase was compared with the use of inorganic phosphate (dicalcium phosphate) when added to diets with or without defatted rice bran (DRB). 128 pigs (21.62.4 kg average initial body weight) were housed in collective pens for pig performance evaluation during the growing and finishing phases. The pigs were slaughtered at an average weight of 95.425.3 kg and the metacarpal bones were collected to determine the calcium and phosphorus content. Eight treatments were used, with four diets being formulated without DRB (maize soyabean meal) and the other four diets with DRB. Phytase was added to the diets at levels of 0, 750 or 1000 PU/kg of diet. It was observed that the addition of phytase to diets without and with DRB improved the availability of organic phosphorus. The addition of phytase at levels of 750 or 1000 PU/kg, with or without DRB in the diet, allowed the withdrawal of the inorganic phosphorus source from the diet if considering pig performance. However, the bone characteristics were affected when diets with phytase were not supplemented with a source of inorganic phosphorus.