Development and evaluation of wheat germplasm with a low–Phytate content to help control of diffuse phosphate pollution from pig and poultry production units

This project will provide the elite germplasm and tools for marker assisted breeding of High Available Phosphate (HAP) wheat, which has the potential to significantly reduce diffuse P pollution when used in the diets of monogastric animals. Previous research on pigs fed with HAP maize and barley have demonstrated between 16% and 18% reduction in P excretion. The effect of P fertiliser treatment on the P metabolism within the wheat plant and grain and on the grain composition of other important nutrients and micronutrients, will also be determined.

A consortium led by NIAB has already completed initial work on the development of new wheat germplasm with a low-phytate content and a greater than 35% increase in the total phosphate in a form available to monogastric animals

Other members of the consortium include: Velcourt Ltd. (R&D); The University of Idaho; The University of Reading; The University of Nottingham; Scottish Crop Research Istitute; Harper Adams University College; Rothamsted Research, Advanta Seeds, Deans Foods Ltd., Lloyds Feeds, Meat and Livestock Commission / BPEX, Home Grown Cereals Authority, British Poultry Council, Velcourt (Farm Management) Ltd., Turkey Sector Group, Environment agency, Anglian Water, ABN Frank Wright, Sun Valley foods.