Phytate or phytic acid is the main storage form of phosphorus in
grains and oil seeds. Pigs are unable to digest phytate, as they lack
digestive enzymes that break it down. As a result, a substantial
amount of phosphorus is excreted as waste, with only 14% of the
total phosphorus bioavailable in corn and up to approximately
50% in wheat.1,2 Because phosphorus is an essential element, inorganic
phosphorus, which is highly available, is typically supplemented
in the diet to meet the pig’s requirement. Phytate also has
other antinutritive effects, as it is known to reduce the availability
and utilization of other nutrients.3-5