Animal Nutrition Views
Ioannis Mavromichalis, Ph.D., gives his views on poultry, pig and dairy nutrition based on his experience as a nutrition consultant with clients around the world.
available organic acids! Cost was not an issue, whereas inclusion rate was substantial, but not to the point it would cause any damage.
I just reviewed another feed formula, and it contained at least five different acids. I say at least because one product was a blend of acids, whereas three others were straight organic acids. Basically, the whole range ofThis exercise brought to my mind an old question among nutritionists whether a blend of acids is better than a single one. In my mind, and based on pure chemistry, one acid is not enough. This is because each acid, due to its chemical properties, functions best at a different pH environment. And, as we have two pH environments (stomach and intestines) to cope with, I have always advocated the use of two distinct organic acids — one for each location.
But, I cannot keep thinking that having a bit of everything might be better. Or, is it worse? Right now, I believe having too many organic acids is as inefficient as having only one. But clearly, research is nothing but forthcoming on this topic. So, I would like to ask all of you who read my experiences (thank you!) to share yours regarding the use of organic acids in piglet and broiler feeds without antibiotics.