What is the role of grit in a poultry diet?

Grit plays a vital role in aiding digestion for poultry. Chickens and other birds do not have teeth to chew their food, so they rely on grit, which consists of small, hard particles like stones or gravel, to help break down the food in their gizzards. The gizzard is a muscular part of their digestive system that crushes and grinds the food, and the grit helps facilitate this process, allowing for more effective digestion and nutrient absorption. Ensuring that poultry have access to proper grit is essential for maintaining their health and overall productivity.

While grit may indirectly support other physiological processes, such as mineral absorption or overall growth, its primary and most direct function in a poultry diet is as a digestive aid. This distinction is crucial in understanding poultry nutrition and management practices.