The National Organic Program has published a final rule (available for download here) that extends the allowance for synthetic methionine in organic poultry production at reduced levels.
Methionine is classified as an essential amino acid for poultry because it is needed to maintain viability, specifically for proper cell development and feathering.
The National Organic Standards Board, an independent body of organic industry and stakeholders that evaluates materials that are petitioned to be allowed or prohibited in organic agriculture, determined that although entirely natural alternatives exist, they are not currently available in sufficient supplies to meet the needs of poultry producers.
The final rule will become effective Oct. 2.
Previously set to expire Oct. 1, the rule now allows poultry producers to continue to use limited amounts of synthetic methionine at the following maximum levels: two pounds per ton of feed for laying and broiler chickens, and three pounds per ton of feed for turkeys and all other poultry.
The final rule addresses the second of a two-part recommendation by the board. The first part of the board’s recommendation was codified in October 2010 to allow organic poultry producers to prepare for reduced levels of synthetic methionine allowed in feed.
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Source: Argentine Beef Packers S.A.
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