Phytin, or myo-inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP6), is stored form of phosphorus (P) seeds of cereals and legumes. It has a strong tendency to chelate metallic cations Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn and Zn and form insoluble complexes which renders them unavailable to animals or humans fed on seed diet. The undigested P is released in excreta and spreads as manure into the soil causing eutrophication of water bodies also due to run off. In maize (Zea mays) 90% of the phytin occurs in the germ portion of the kernel, while in wheat and rice it is stored in aleurone layers of the kernel and the outer bran and acts as anti nutritional factor. | Phytin A nutritional inhibitor in food and feed - review of strategies and challenges to overcome the menace in maize
