What is the primary function of the gizzard in poultry?

The primary function of the gizzard in poultry is to hold grit and grind food. This muscular organ is essential in the digestive process, especially for birds that do not have teeth. Since poultry consume whole grains and seeds, they rely on the gizzard to mechanically break down these hard food items. The gizzard’s strong muscular walls allow it to contract and mix the food with grit and small stones that birds ingest, which further helps to grind and process the food before it moves into the intestines for nutrient absorption. This adaptation is crucial for their ability to efficiently utilize nutrients from their diet.

In the context of poultry digestion, the other functions listed are not associated with the gizzard. Filtering toxins from food is more related to the liver and kidneys' functions. Temporary food storage occurs in the crop, which is a separate part of the digestive system. Lastly, the absorption of water primarily happens in the intestines, rather than in the gizzard. Thus, recognizing the specific role of the gizzard highlights its importance in poultry digestion.