A chemical complex (large molecule) substance that is the dominant (i.e., 60% to 80%) chemical form of phosphorus within cereal grains, oil-seeds, and their byproducts. Monogastric animals (e.g., swine) cannot digest and utilize the phosphorus within phytate, because they lack the enzyme known as phytase in their digestive system, so that phosphorus (phytate) is excreted into the environment. When phytase enzyme is present in the ration of a monogastric animal, at a high enough level, the monogastric animal is then able to digest the phytate (thereby releasing that phosphorus for absorption by the animal).
A compound in unleavened whole grains that binds to minerals in the intestines and inhibits their absorption.
A phosphate containing compound found in the outer husk of certain cereals reduces the absorption of calcium and some other minerals.
A botanical compound that forms connections with minerals, diminishing their capacity to be assimilated.