Stability of Choline in Feed Mixtures

The possibility was suggested to the authors that a lack of stability of choline might explain the occurrence of perosis in chicks fed naturally-occurring or synthetic choline providing supposedly adequate amounts of the factor. Accordingly a series of experimental mixtures representing several different types of practical poultry feed mixtures was prepared. Two 100 pound bags of each of six mashes were made. One bag of each mash contained an added 0.15% Merck choline chloride. Homogeneous distribution of this choline chloride was assured by use of a Simpson Intensive Laboratory Mixer. The choline chloride was added in water solution to further promote homogeneity. The bags of feed (12 in all) were stored at room temperature (70 F). At the beginning, and at 3 month intervals, samples were taken with a sampling rod and analyzed for choline. The method used was a modification of that outlined by Engel (1942). The procedure was . . .