Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) is a 6-carbon lactone which is synthesized from glucose by livestock. Birds have the ability to synthesize ascorbic acid, however, this is insufficient under stress conditions. Oxidative damage has been fingered to increase with a decline in plasma levels of zinc, folic acid, vitamins C and E and other minerals.

The benefits of ascorbic acid for livestock

• Generally defined as organic compounds that are required in small amounts in diets for normal growth, health, and reproduction, they act as mediators of or participate in fundamental biochemical pathways.
• Vitamin C enhances the biosynthesis of the hormone-corticosterone- known to increase energy supply during periods of stress.
• Thus it improves the performance of newly hatched, growing and adult birds- after stress conditions.
• It also counteracts the adverse effects of unfavorable weather and housing conditions, and in the case of intoxications or diseases.
• They are involved in the oxidation and reduction complexes resulting in the transfer of the hydrogen-linked to the adrenal hormones.
• Supplementation of poultry diets with vitamin C improves egg production, growth rate, egg-shell strength, and thickness, spermatozoa production, and fertility.
• Vitamin C acts as an anti-oxidant and photoprotectant, thus it enhances cellular antioxidant defenses by limiting ultraviolet (UV) light exposure induced damage.
• Improves nutrient digestibility and feed efficiency.
• Ascorbic acid is a natural antihistamine (detoxifies and prevents the release of histamine)
• Vitamin C boosts the immune system by modulating phagocytic activity, therefore it facilitates wound healing.

Dosage and Administration

Recommended: Vit C/Tonne of complete feed

• Chicken: 100 - 200 g coated Vit C/ tonne of feed
• Piglet: 100 - 200 g coated Vit C/ tonne of feed
• Turkey: 80 - 100 g coated Vit C/ tonne of feed
• Catfish: 100 - 500 g coated Vit C/ tonne of feed (cold water fish)

Storage

1. Store dry and in well-closed packing
2. Store below +25 degrees and protect from light