Determination of enzymatic activity (phytase, xylanase, etc.)

Enzyme activity measurement assesses an enzyme's ability to catalyze a specific reaction. In the animal nutrition sector, this analysis is essential for verifying the performance of enzyme additives incorporated into compound feeds or premixes.

Enzymes such as phytase, xylanase, cellulase, protease, and amylase are commonly used to improve nutrient digestibility, reduce losses, and optimize the utilization of plant-based raw materials. Their effectiveness depends directly on their enzymatic activity, which must be precisely measured to ensure consistency in the finished product.

Advantages of analytical measurement

Measuring enzyme activity is essential for:

• Check that the enzymatic additives conform to the manufacturer's specifications.
• To guarantee the nutritional and functional efficacy of animal formulations.
• Controlling the stability of enzymes during storage and industrial processing (granulation, extrusion).
• Standardize products before they are put on the market.
• Evaluate the effect of enzymes on the bioavailability of nutrients (phosphorus, starch, fiber, protein).

This analysis is requested by both manufacturers of additives and premixes and by manufacturers of compound feeds wishing to ensure the consistency and quality of their formulations.

Analytical methods used

At YesWeLab, the measurement of enzymatic activity is carried out using specific methods adapted to each type of enzyme.

Colorimetric or spectrophotometric methods:
These approaches rely on measuring the absorbance of a colored product formed during the enzymatic reaction. For example, the release of inorganic phosphate in phytase assays can be measured spectrophotometrically at 415 nm.

Fluorimetric methods
For certain enzymes such as xylanases or cellulases, activity can be measured using fluorogenic substrates whose fluorescence is proportional to the amount of product formed.

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs)
These methods allow for the specific detection and indirect quantification of certain enzymes or their isoforms. They are particularly useful for verifying the correct incorporation of an enzyme into a formulation or for monitoring potential cross-contamination.

The analyses are carried out according to standardized and validated protocols, in ISO 17025 accredited laboratories and in compliance with European guidelines relating to zootechnical additives (Regulation (EC) No. 1831/2003).

Applications in animal nutrition

Phytase
hydrolyzes phytate, the main form of plant phosphorus, making this nutrient available to monogastric animals. Its dosage is essential to ensure the effectiveness of phosphorus supplementation and reduce environmental emissions.

Xylanase and cellulase:
These enzymes break down non-starch polysaccharides (fibers) and improve the energy digestibility of feed. Controlling their activity ensures consistent efficiency in feeds for poultry, pigs, and ruminants.

Protease and amylase
levels are measured to monitor protein and starch degradation, influencing growth and feed conversion ratio. These analyses are often performed to optimize the formulation of cereal-rich feeds.

Affected matrices

• Commercial enzyme additives
• Compound feeds and premixes
• Plant-based raw materials (cereals, oilseed cakes)
• Enzymatic nutritional supplements
• Fermentation products

Recommended Related Analyses

For a comprehensive assessment of nutritional quality and performance, YesWeLab recommends combining the following measurements:
Total phosphorus measurement – ​​to evaluate the effectiveness of phytases.
Dietary fiber measurement – ​​to study the impact of cellulases and xylanases.
Crude protein measurement – ​​to link enzymatic activity to protein digestibility.

Why choose YesWeLab?

YesWeLab relies on a network of partner laboratories specializing in enzyme analysis for animal nutrition. These laboratories use validated protocols and high-precision equipment to quantify the specific activity of each enzyme.
Our scientific team supports manufacturers of additives, feeds, and nutritional supplements in regulatory compliance, formula validation, and quality control of production batches.

Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform, ordering, tracking and receiving results are simplified, with technical support at every stage.