September 12, 2008

Higher feed prices are prompting more chicken farmers in Brazil to look at using enzymes, to improve the efficiency of their operations, according to a feed industry figure in the country. 

In 2008 feed additive consumption has exceeded the expectations of suppliers, who have doubled the volume sold compared to last year.

Enzymes help optimize the nutrients in corn, said Ariovaldo Zanni, executive director of the National Association of Animal Ration Industries (Sindirações).

The tripling of phosphate prices last year and the sharp price increases of soymeal were factors driving more farmers to use enzymes, he said.

Although praising the increased use of enzymes, he noted that the Brazil is still currently heavily dependant on the foreign market for supplies.