Use of Organic Acids in Animal Feeds

Organic acids have long been used to prevent the formation of bacteria and mold. In this field of application, they have significant effects in terms of ensuring hygienic conditions.

What Are Organic Acids?

Organic acids are monocarboxylic acids, carboxylic acids with a hydroxyl group, or carboxylic acid compounds with double bonds.

We can list these compounds as follows;

We can classify them as such.

It has been found that not all of these carboxylic acids have an effect on the bacteria and microorganisms in the intestines of animals.

Short-chain organic carboxylic acids (C1-C7) have antimicrobial effects. They are normally distributed in animal and plant cells. They can also be produced through the microbial fermentation of carbohydrates in the large intestine.

What Are the Effects of Organic Acids on Some Bacteria?

There are several application methods for organic acids. These are as follows.

They are added directly during the production of poultry feed. The goal here is to prevent mold growth in the feed by lowering its pH level.
They are sprayed on the ground where poultry roam or are housed. Such applications prevent the formation of bacteria that break down uric acid, which causes the formation of ammonia. This, in turn, prevents ammonia formation.
They are added to the animals' drinking water to lower the pH. If the organic acid is kept from dissociating, an inhibitory effect will be exerted on gram-negative bacteria.

What Are the Energizing Effects of Organic Acids?

When used in feed production, organic acids provide a significant amount of energy. For example, propionic acid is a compound capable of providing 5 times more energy than wheat.

The pH-lowering ability and antimicrobial effects of organic acids depend on their degree of dissociation. The dissociation level of these compounds depends on the pH level. The amount of dissociation in organic acids depends on the pKa value. For these compounds, the lower the pKa value, the higher their ability to lower the pH of the medium.

What Are the Effects of Organic Acids Based on Environmental Conditions and Bacterial Species?

Each organic acid has its own unique antimicrobial spectrum. For example, the chemical sorbic acid is very effective due to its antimicrobial properties. However, Lactic Acid is a more effective chemical against bacteria.

However, formic acid and propionic acid have broader-spectrum antimicrobial effects. This means they can more effectively combat different types of microorganisms.

Additionally, acetic acid and lactic acid have been found to have synergistic antimicrobial effects in vitro. In contrast, some bacterial species have shown greater resistance to malic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid.

Fumaric Acid, on the other hand, has excellent sour-tasting properties in animal feeds. Its preservative effect is lower compared to other chemicals.

What Are the Benefits of Organic Acids?

Supports the Digestive System: Organic acids lower the pH of feed, thereby increasing the activity of digestive enzymes. This helps in better digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Controls Pathogenic Microorganisms: Organic acids inhibit the growth and proliferation of some pathogenic microorganisms. This reduces the risk of disease and improves animal health.

Improves Animal Performance: The use of organic acids can increase the feed conversion ratio and growth rate of animals. This contributes to an increase in meat, milk, and egg production.

All information here should be used in accordance with the regulations by experts and professionals in the field.