Potassium diformate (Formi) is odorless, low-corrosive and easy to handle. The European Union (EU) has approved it as non-antibiotic growth promoter, for use in non ruminant feeds. Maximum inclusion level of potassium diformate is 1.8% as registered by the European authorities which can improve weight gain up to 14%. Potassium diformate contains the active ingredients free formic acid as well as formate has the strong anti microbial effect in stomach and also in duodenum. Potassium diformate with its growth promoting and health enhancing effect has proven to be an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters. Its special effect on the micro flora is regarded as the main mode of action[1].
Potassium diformate is a fatty acid that is used for dietary purposes, as it may be helpful in the treatment of pancreatic enzyme deficiencies. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of lactic acid bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, and other microorganisms. Potassium diformate reacts with sodium hydroxide to form potassium hydroxide, which is then reacted with hydrogen chloride gas to produce potassium chloride. This reaction provides an alternative method for industrial preparation of potassium chloride from potash. Potassium diformate also shows potential use as an antimicrobial agent due to its ability to bind and disrupt bacterial cell membranes.
[1] R. CHOWDHURY. POTASSIUM DIFORMATE?: A NEW ALTERNATIVE TO ANTIBIOTIC GROWTH PROMOTERS[J]. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science, 2012. DOI:10.3329/BJAS.V37I2.9887.
