INGREDIENTSFatty Acids
INGREDIENTSFatty Acids for Animals: A KeyElement of Animal Nutritionby Aurore Berthereau, New Project Manager at Vidya EuroeFatty acids are essential lipid compoundsthat play a fundamental role in animalnutrition. They participate in vitalbiological functions, such as energyproduction, maintenance of cellularmembrane integrity, and regulation ofinflammatory processes [1]. For animalfeed producers, selecting the best sourcesof fatty acids is crucial to optimize animalhealth and the quality of derived products.This article examines the significanceof fatty acids in animal nutrition, withexamples such as hemp and chia oils,available in the Vidya Europe catalog.Fatty Acids: Essential nutrientsfor animal healthFatty acids are categorized intoseveral groups, including saturated,monounsaturated, and polyunsaturatedfatty acids. Among these, omega-3 andomega-6 fatty acids are particularlyimportant as they cannot be synthesizedby the animal's body and must thereforebe supplied through the diet [2].Functions of fatty acids inanimalsFatty acids serve several essentialbiological functions:- Energy Source: Fatty acidsrepresent a concentrated energyreserve, crucial for growing animals,pregnant females, and productionanimals.- Cellular Structure Maintenance:Fatty acids are major constituents ofcellular membranes, ensuring the fluidityand permeability necessary for cellularexchanges.- Inflammatory and ImmuneRegulation: Omega-3 and omega-6 fattyacids regulate inflammatory processesand support immune function. A properbalance between these fatty acids is vitalto prevent excessive inflammation.Focus on the role of Omega-3and Omega-6 in animal healthOmega-3 and omega-6 are two typesof polyunsaturated fatty acids that playdistinct but complementary roles inthe body. An equitable intake of thesetwo families is essential for maintainingoverall animal health [3].- Omega-3 (ALA, EPA, DHA): Thesefatty acids are essential for reducinginflammation, protecting cardiovascularhealth, and ensuring the properfunctioning of the central nervoussystem. In animals, omega-3 fatty acidsalso promote cognitive health, enhancecoat shine, and improve regulation ofinflammatory processes, particularly injoint pathologies [4].- Omega-6 (LA, GLA): Omega-6 fattyacids are necessary for growth, tissuedevelopment, and proper immunefunction. However, an excess of omega-6without adequate omega-3 intakecan lead to excessive inflammation,underscoring the importance ofmaintaining a balanced ratio [2].Photo: Vidya EuropePhoto: AdobeStock 534245916Vidya Europe: Provider ofhigh-quality Lipids for animalnutritionVidya Europe is a key player in providingnutritional solutions for animal feed, withparticular expertise in lipids and feedadditives. Based in France, the companydistributes and produces GMP+ certifiedingredients, ensuring food safety andcompliance with international standards.Hemp oil and Chia oil:exceptional sources ofessential fatty acids foranimalsHemp and chia oils are particularlyvalued in animal nutrition for their10Technology & Marketing
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