Positive effect of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on animal performance

Dear colleagues,

It is well known how omega-3 fatty acids, especially the long-chain EPA and DHA, can reduce inflammation in the body by competing with omega-6 fatty acids for the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes. EPA and DHA, by producing fewer pro-inflammatory cytokines than those produced by omega-6 fatty acids, reduce inflammation at the metabolic level and, therefore, also reduce immune stimulation.

With lower immune system activation, nutrient consumption for anabolic or growth processes would be optimized, improving the animals’ production parameters.

However, there are several issues to consider, such as:

– The quality of the EPA and DHA source we are going to supply, since they are polyunsaturated fatty acids and need to be well stabilized, otherwise we could find ourselves with the opposite effect to the one desired.

– Maintain the optimal Omega-3/Omega-6 balance, which varies depending on the species but is usually between 0.25 and 0.125.

– Keep in mind that among omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA are usually much more potent than ALA (alpha-linolenic acid).

At NBG, we have created NBG Omega, a highly stable and easy-to-handle powdered source of EPA and DHA. We also advise our customers on the best balance depending on the species and condition of the animal.

Finally, we provide you with an article that shows the improvement in growth and feed conversion ratio in broiler chickens when EPA and DHA are included in their diet.

Enjoy the article!