What is the function of antioxidants in animal feeds?

Prepare thoroughly for the Comprehensive Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock Nutrition Test. Study with flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and explanations for each question. Equip yourself for success!

Multiple Choice

What is the function of antioxidants in animal feeds?

Explanation:
Antioxidants in animal feeds protect fats from oxidation, preventing rancidity of unsaturated fats. Unsaturated fats are prone to reacting with oxygen, heat, and light, forming peroxides that cause off-flavors and loss of nutrients. Antioxidants donate electrons or hydrogen to free radicals, interrupting the lipid peroxidation chain and preserving fat quality and feed shelf life. They do not add energy or minerals, and their primary role isn’t to improve palatability. Common examples include vitamin E (tocopherols) and synthetic antioxidants like BHT, BHA, and ethoxyquin.

Antioxidants in animal feeds protect fats from oxidation, preventing rancidity of unsaturated fats. Unsaturated fats are prone to reacting with oxygen, heat, and light, forming peroxides that cause off-flavors and loss of nutrients. Antioxidants donate electrons or hydrogen to free radicals, interrupting the lipid peroxidation chain and preserving fat quality and feed shelf life. They do not add energy or minerals, and their primary role isn’t to improve palatability. Common examples include vitamin E (tocopherols) and synthetic antioxidants like BHT, BHA, and ethoxyquin.

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