FOLIC ACID

Folic acid is a water soluble vitamin and is very important for animal nutrition

Folic acid, in the form 5, 6, 7, 8-tetrahydrofolic acid (THF), is indispensable in the transfer of single-carbon units in various reactions. The one-carbon units can be formyl, methylene or methyl groups. Folic acid deficiency is indicated by retarded growth and feed efficiency. Folic acid deficiency in chicks is also characterized by poor growth, very poor feathering, an anemic appearance, and perosis. In breeding hens results in poor hatchability and a marked increase in embryonic mortality.