Feed Acidifiers | Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Feed Acidifiers

In animal husbandry and poultry farming, feed plays a crucial role as a source of pathogenic organisms leading to diseases and mortality. Traditionally, antibiotics have been used to control these organisms, but they are costly and contribute to resistance.

Types of Acids Used

During the late 1980s, the practice of incorporating organic and inorganic acids like formic acid, propionic acid, citric acid, acetic acid, and orthophosphoric acid into compound feeds emerged. These acids vary in strength and have different effects on microbes in both feed and animals.

Effects on Animal Development:

• For instance, adding butyric acid to milk and citric acid to milk replacer for preruminant calves can accelerate the development of their rumen and increase the size of rumen papillae, impacting their overall growth positively.

Impact on Microorganisms:

• Acids can hinder microbial growth (microbiostatic) or directly kill microbes (microbicidal). Formic acid, for example, is effective against pathogenic microorganisms in the gastrointestinal flora and mycotoxin producers.

Mode of Action

When acids enter bacterial cells, they dissociate into anions and protons, causing a drop in cytoplasmic pH. This pH decrease disrupts various cellular processes like DNA, RNA, protein, and lipid synthesis, ultimately leading to microbial death.

Technological Advances

Corrosive acids in compound feeds necessitate advanced technology. An alternative is acid adsorbates, created by spraying liquid acids onto inert carriers, which are less corrosive. Formic acid adsorbate, for instance, acts as a preservative for feedstuffs and inhibits mold growth.

Synergistic Effects:

• Combining mineral and organic acids like citric acid, formic acid, and orthophosphoric acid can enhance their effectiveness, offering a synergistic impact in feed applications.

Application across Livestock:

• Feed acids or acid adsorbates benefit not only pigs and poultry but also aid in storing feed ingredients and compound feeds for various livestock species.