Innovation in Fat Protection for the Optimization of Essential Fatty Acids in Ruminant Feed
Tri Ida Wahyu Kustyorini*, Hartutik*, Marjuki*, Lilik Eka Radiati*, Primasatya Nugraha*

*Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Brawijaya, East Java, Indonesia-

Abstract

Unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as oleic, linoleic, linolenic, arachidonic acids, EPA, and DHA, play a vital role in enhancing livestock productivity and improving the nutritional quality of animal products. However, PUFAs are highly susceptible to biohydrogenation in the rumen, reducing their biological availability. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of unprotected and calcium hydroxide-protected lemuru fish oil on the in vitro fatty acid profile. The research employed a nested randomized block design conducted under laboratory conditions. Treatments included unprotected fish oil (P1) and calcium hydroxide-protected fish oil (P2), applied at various levels: L0 (0%), L5 (5%), L7.5 (7.5%), L10 (10%), and L12.5 (12.5%). Each treatment was replicated three times. Observed variables included the concentrations of oleic, linoleic, linolenic, arachidonic acids, EPA, and DHA. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Duncan^s multiple range test for significant effects. The results indicated that both treatment types and supplementation levels had highly significant effects (P<0.01) on the fatty acid profiles. The highest lipid profiles were observed with 10% supplementation of protected fish oil, while the best result for unprotected fish oil was found at the 5% level. Based on these findings, it is concluded that unprotected lemuru fish oil can be effectively used up to 5%, whereas protected fish oil can be safely applied up to 10%.

Keywords: Protected fish oil- Unsaturated fatty acids- Calcium soap- In vitro fermentation

Topic: Animal feed and nutrition