ÁCIDOS ORGÂNICOS COMO PROMOTORES DE CRESCIMENTO NA DIETA DE FRANGOS

Abstract

The evolution of alternatives to the use of antimicrobials should be rapid, accurate and continuous. Among several alternatives, organic acids (AO) added to diets or water has been widely used, presenting great nutritional influence. OA are balancing additives of the microbiota of the digestive tract and play an important role in the growth of animals. They are short-chain compounds, weak acids that increase intestinal function and nutrient digestion, in addition to promoting injunction on the growth and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms. These compounds are associated with inhibition of microbial growth which is explained by the ability they have to cross the cellular membrane, dissociating them inside the cell and acidifying the cytoplasm. AO can spread through the membrane of lipophilic bacteria and disrupt enzymatic reactions and the transport system. Thus, the improvement of OA in zootechnical performance can be proven, with more evident effects in birds in the growth and finishing phase. The dose and how to offer OA in the diet is important for the effectiveness of its action as a growth promoter.