Inclusion Of Oil Research Articles

Effect of the inclusion complex formation method on the functional properties of poly (butylene adipate co-terephthalate) active films

The food waste and single-use packaging problems require efforts to develop active, sustainable packaging to extend the shelf life of perishable products. Therefore, the β-Cyclodextrin-Clove essential oil inclusion complexes (IC) obtained by ultrasound (IC-U) and kneading (IC-K) methods were incorporated into a PBAT matrix. The effect of the IC on the structural, functional, and biodegradability features of the PBAT matrix was assessed. The results show that the IC exhibited high thermal stability and adequate dispersion in the PBAT matrix during the extrusion process. The PBAT-IC films, as prototypes of packaging bags, improved the shelf life of perishable foods (blueberries), reducing their weight loss by 20 % and 8 % after 28 days at room and refrigerated temperatures, preserving the diameter of the blueberries and inhibiting fungal growth, corroborating an improvement in functional properties. Moreover, IC-U and IC-K incorporation did not affect Young's modulus (85 N/mm²), tensile strength (19 N/mm²), elongation at break (553 %), and disintegration degree (90 %) of the films, making them alternative food preservation packaging for the food industry.

Exploring the Nexus Between Emulsifier Characteristics and Salmonella Typhimurium Viability in Oil‐in‐Water Emulsions

ABSTRACTMolecular characteristics of emulsifiers such as their molecular weight (MW) and surface charge, not only affect the stability of the emulsion but also can have an impact on its capacity to either inhibit or promote microbial proliferation. These characteristics can affect the behavior of pathogens such as Salmonella Typhimurium in emulsion systems. The growth and thermal resistance of S. Typhimurium were monitored at different oil content levels (20%, 40%, and 60%) in emulsions stabilized by three whey protein‐based emulsifiers: whey protein isolate (WPI), whey protein hydrolysate (WPH), and a modified WPI with an alteration of charge (WPI+). Our study revealed that emulsifier itself with different MW and surface charge had no effect on bacterial growth and inactivation without oil inclusion (p > 0.05). However, it was found that higher bacterial growth rate at 60% oil content emulsion stabilized with WPI+ (0.65 ± 0.03 log CFU/h) than WPI (0.19 ± 0.04 log CFU/h), which showed the charge of emulsifiers has different effects on microbial dynamics in oil‐in‐water emulsion. Interestingly, WPI+ in emulsions also seemed to convey protection against thermal inactivation of bacteria. These data describe a complex interrelationship between the physicochemical characteristics of the emulsifier and its interacting nature with bacterial cells. They throw even more light on the insight about the importance of a strategic approach toward emulsifier selection in food formulations. This is crucial for the food safety and stability of products.

Effect of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal and oil on the performance, biochemical profile, intestinal health and gut microbial dynamics in laying hens

This study investigated the effect of incorporating black soldier fly (BSF) larvae meal and oil on laying hens' performance, egg quality, serum profile, intestinal structure, and gut health. A total of 378 Lohmann laying hens (age 48 wk) were randomly assigned to 6 treatments with 3 replicates of 21 hens each. Following 7 d acclimation, the trail was conducted for 8 weeks. The dietary groups include: basal corn-soybean meal diet (S) without BSF (BSO) oil (S+BSO 0), S with BSF oil (S+BSO 100), BSF meal (9 %) without BSF oil (BSF 9+BSO 0), BSF meal (9 %) with BSF oil (BSF 9+BSO 100), BSF meal (18 %) without BSF oil (BSF 18+BSO 0), and BSF meal (18 %) with BSF oil (BSF 18+BSO 100). The results showed that the BSF 18 + BSO 100 diet significantly reduced egg weight (P < 0.001) compared to other dietary treatments. The addition of BSF meal reduced feed intake (P < 0.001) and the Haugh units (P < 0.05) in hens fed 18 % BSF meal with and without BSO. The jejunum villus area, crypt depth, and intestinal wall thickness increased with the increase in the inclusion of BSF larvae meal (P < 0.001). The ileum villus height, crypt depth and intestinal wall thickness increased (P < 0.001) at 9 % BSF meal and then decreased at 18 % BSF meal with and without BSF oil. The bacteria genera Ruminococcus, Clostridiales, Bacteroidales, Ruminococcus torques, and Intestinimonas were positively associated with the dietary treatments, while Prevotellaceae UCG-001, Clostridium, and Faecalibacterium were negatively associated with the dietary treatments. The inclusion of BSF meal and oil enriched the functional network of several pathways, including ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, D-arginine and D-ornithine metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism, highlighting the positive effects of BSF larvae meal and oil on the chicken gut microbiota. In conclusion, BSF meal at 9 % with BSF oil and BSF meal at 18 % without BSF oil can be incorporated into the diet without impairing the performance and gut health of laying hens.

Optimising Growth, Immunity, and Gene Expression in Broiler Chickens Through Dietary Threonine Levels and Oil Inclusion.

The inclusion of synthetic amino acids in poultry nutrition plays a crucial role in both enhancing the synthesis of immunoglobulins and elevating the overall comprehensiveness of the amino acid profile. This research examined the effects of consuming threonine (Thr) in various forms levels with low or high oil on broiler chickens' growth and immunity. We investigate the growth performance, feed efficiency, immune response, intestinal morphology, absorptive capacity, and expression of some genes related to the feed intake (Pro-opiomelanocortin [POMC]), fatty acid synthesis (Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase [ACC]), immunity (lipopolysaccharide-induced tumour necrosis like alpha factor [LITAF]), and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70). Eight groups of chicks were used, including four dietary Thr levels (100%, 115%, 130%, or 145%) with two oil levels (mixture of sunflower 50% and soybean oils 50%): (control) and high. The higher dietaryThrlevel (145%) with high oil inclusion significantly increased ACC and POMC gene expression, resulting in the lowest feed intake, body weight gain (BWG), and liver fat content. Combining high oil with 115% Thr was the optimum for the broilers. The birds have significant (p ≤.05) growth performance, immune parameters, and intestinal health, as well as the lowest expression of ACC, POMC, HSP70, and LITAF, which was reflected in better feed conversion ratio and lower incidence of fatty liver, thermo-resistance, and immune status of the birds. The combination of high oil and 115% Thr levels optimises broiler health and productivity, enhancing growth, immune function, and gut health. This diet lowers the expression of genes associated with fatty liver and stress, leading to better feed efficiency, thermo-resistance, and overall well-being. Adopting these dietary adjustments can improve broiler performance and economic viability in poultry farming by enhancing essential productivity metrics.

The global oil market with a price ceiling for one of the producers

Subject. The article considers the functioning of the oil market under a price ceiling set for one of the producers. Objectives. The aims are to develop tools to study the global oil market under sanctions restrictions, define the characteristics of sustainability of such a market when applying sanctions to one of the producers, analyze economic consequences of setting a price ceiling for the purchase of oil, explore the possibilities of achieving equilibrium states. Methods. The main research tool is mathematical modeling of the market. The research methodology rests on the study of changes in market characteristics caused by the introduction of non-market methods of its regulation. Results. I built a game-theoretic model suitable for studying the global oil market with sanctions restrictions, defined critical parameters of the market caused by the introduction of a price ceiling, determined the ways to stabilize the market with this ceiling. Furthermore, I examined the current state of the market and determined the consequences of changing the characteristics of sanctions restrictions. Conclusions. The model is suitable for studying the current state of the global oil market. The introduction of a price ceiling, in contrast to a complete embargo, allows the market to remain stable within certain limits. To stabilize the market, it is also possible to conclude private contracts at discounted prices. Current trends in the development of the global oil market require the inclusion of oil importing countries in the set of players in the developed model.

Effects of including different levels of equal mix of soybean and flaxseed oils in Japanese quail diets on the growth, carcass quality, and blood biomarkers

Corn, the primary ingredient in modern poultry feeds, contains high levels of ω-6 fatty acids but lacks sufficient ω-3 fatty acids, creating an imbalance. Maintaining a balance between ω-6 and ω-3 fatty acids in poultry diets is crucial due to their competition. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating different concentrations of an equal mix of soybean oil (SO) and flaxseed oil (FO) into quail diets on growth performance, carcass quality, and blood biochemistry. One-week-old Japanese quail birds (n = 200) were randomly assigned to four dietary groups, each comprising five replicates with 10 chicks per replicate. Four isonitrogenous/isocaloric basal diets were formulated. Group 1 (control) received a basal diet without SO or FO, while Groups 2-4 received basal diets supplemented with an equal mix of SO+FO at levels of 1.0 %, 1.5 %, and 2.0 %, respectively. The inclusion of oil mixes significantly increased body weight (BW) at five weeks and daily weight gain (DWG) during weeks 3-5 and 1-5. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) improved with the addition of oil mixes throughout the trial period. Supplementing quail diets with oil mixes resulted in reduced serum total cholesterol (TC) and LDL cholesterol, elevated serum HDL cholesterol, and no significant effect on triglycerides (TG) and VLDL cholesterol levels. Quails fed oil-supplemented diets showed lower serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and creatinine levels, while urea and uric acid were significantly affected. Birds fed diets with oil mixes also had increased serum concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgY), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). However, serum immunoglobulin A (IgA), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels did not significantly change across experimental groups. Overall, adding up to 2 % of the SO and FO mix in growing quail feeds improved growth performance, blood lipid profile, liver and kidney function markers, immune response, and antioxidant defense. The highest level of oil mix (2 %) yielded the most beneficial effects.

Effect of enriched biochar on methane emissions, rumen microbial structure and rumen fermentation characteristics in Holstein steers

Nutritional strategies, such as oil inclusion or addition of 3-Nitrooxypropanol, to reduce methane emissions from ruminants show promise, but have not been as effective in low quality or roughage based diets. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of enriched biochar on methane production and fermentation characteristics in an oaten hay diet. This study used a 3 × 3 Latin square design, where 3 fistulated Holstein steers (790 ± 100 kg initial body weight) were fed a basal diet of oaten hay, with either 1) oaten pellets (Control), 2) Oaten pellets containing biochar at 1 % of dietary DM; or 3) Oaten pellets containing enriched biochar at 1 % DM. Each period lasted for 21 d, including 14 d dietary adaptation and 7 d experimental measurement. Rumen samples were collected on d 17–21 for determination of liquid and solid associated microbes, and rumen fermentation characteristics. The sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) tracer technique was used to quantify methane emissions. Body weights (kg), dry matter and organic matter intakes (DMI and OMI), methane production (g/d), methane intensity (g kg-1 BW) and methane yield (g kg-1 DMI) were similar (P ≥ 0.12) across the three treatment groups. Similarly, total VFA concentration and individual percentages of VFA were similar across treatments (P ≥ 0.16). Microbes in the solid and liquid fractions showed little differences among treatments (P ≤ 0.049) indicating that biochar included in an oaten hay diet, whether standard or enriched, had little effect on rumen fermentation, microbial communities or methane emissions in Holstein steers.

Molecular and carbon isotopic geochemistry of oils with different fluorescence color from the Upper Jurassic Qigu formation and oil accumulation process in Yongjin area, Junggar Basin in China

The Yongjin area, located in the middle of the Junggar Basin, is an important oil-producing region. Its major oil-producing formation is the Upper Jurassic Qigu Formation, which has experienced multiple oil-charging events that have resulted in oils with various fluorescent colors. However, the source of oils from the Qigu Formation is currently debated. As exploration and development progressed, the productivity of the Qigu Formation was observed to vary owing to oil viscosity differences. Conventional extraction methods can only be used to obtain a mixture of fluorescing oils of different colors, making it difficult to analyze the properties of oils that charge during different periods. Using microscopy to observe fluorescence the characteristics of oil in various samples were analyzed. Then, accelerated sequential extraction was used to separate the oils with different fluorescent colors (Groups I–IV). Through GC-MS (gas chromatography), GC-IRMS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry), FT-IR (fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), and fluid inclusion observations and measurements, in conjunction with the geological context, the sources of oils from different charge periods and genesis of heavy oil were determined and the process of oil accumulation was reconstructed. Three stages of oil charging were identified: (1) During the Middle to Late Jurassic, low-mature and mature oil from the Lower Permian Fengcheng Formation and a low quantity of low-mature oil from the Middle Permian Lower Wuerhe Formation charged the Qigu Formation. These oils underwent notable biodegradation and oxidation, with some captured by inclusions (Group III) for preservation. (2) During the Late Cretaceous to Early Paleogene, mature oil from the Wuerhe Formation charged the Qigu Formation. This oil mixed with early oil that was not captured by the inclusions, resulting in the formation of black-brown fluorescing oil (Group IV) and yellow fluorescing inclusion oil (Group II). (3) From the Late Paleogene to the present, highly mature condensates from the Lower Wuerhe Formation charged the Qigu Formation. The oil mixed with early oil to generate yellow-brown (Group II) and blue-white (Group I) fluorescing oils. Low-mature and mature oil from the Fengcheng Formation charged the Jurassic reservoirs and underwent secondary alteration, whereas high-mature oil and gas did not. These oils likely predominantly accumulated in reservoirs between the Fengcheng and Lower Wuerhe formations. Although the Jurassic source rocks began to generate oil, this oil did not migrate upward to the Qigu Formation, indicating that the conventional and unconventional reservoirs under the Jurassic Qigu Formation have exploration potential.

Milk Production, Milk Composition, Milk Fatty Acid Profile and Nutrient Digestibility of Mehsana Goats Fed Sunflower (Helianthus annus) Oil

A study was conducted during the month of December, 2020 to January, 2021 at Livestock Research Station, Kamdhenu University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat (385506), India to evaluate the effect of dietary sunflower oil supplementation on milk yield, milk fatty acid profile and nutrient digestibility of Mehsana goats. Eighteen lactating Mehsana goats were randomly divided into three treatment groups, viz. Basal diet (control), Basal diet+25 g animal-1 day-1 of sunflower oil and Basal diet+50 g animal-1 day-1 of sunflower oil for a period of 60 days. No significant differences (p&gt;0.05) were found in milk yield in terms of kg d-1, 4% fat corrected milk and energy corrected milk among the treatment groups. The milk constituents and their yields were not affected due to dietary inclusion of sunflower oil. Sunflower oil feeding at the dose of 50 g d-1 increased (p&lt;0.05) concentration of milk short chain fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the milk of goats. The intake and digestibility of nitrogen free extract was increased in sunflower oil supplemented groups. The intake and digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract and crude fibre were similar (p&gt;0.05) among the treatment groups. it may be concluded that supplementation of sunflower oil at the dose rate of 25 and 50 g d-1 did not affect feed intake, milk yield, milk constituents and nutrient digestibility in lactating Mehsana goats. However, dietary 50 g d-1 of sunflower oil significantly increased concentration of milk short chain fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids in goats.

Chlorella and vegetable oil inclusion in diets for growing rabbits: effects on growth, digestibility, plasma metabolites, and caecal fermentations and microbiota

The inclusion of microalgae in livestock diets has been shown to enhance animal productivity, immune response, and meat quality. However, the role of chlorella (Chlorella vulgaris) in growing rabbit nutrition has been scarcely explored, with available studies focusing on low inclusion levels (<1%) and their effects on rabbit growth and immune response. This study evaluated the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, plasma metabolites, caecal fermentative activity, and caecal microbiota composition of growing rabbits fed diets with different inclusion levels of chlorella and crude fat. A total of 648 mixed-sex Grimaud crossbred rabbits (33 d of age; 841 ± 140 g live weight) were fed 6 experimental diets (96 rabbits per diet for the growth trial) based on a bifactorial design with three dietary inclusion levels of chlorella (0%, 1%, and 2%) and two levels of crude fat (3% and 5%) obtained by the inclusion of soybean oil (1% and 3%, respectively). The trial lasted 38 days until slaughter. From 47 to 51 days of age, 72 rabbits (12 per diet) were submitted to a digestibility trial. At 51 days of age, samples of plasma and caecal content were collected from 36 rabbits (6 rabbit per diet) to analyse plasma metabolites, caecal fermentations, and caecal microbiota. Rabbit live weight at 71 days of age (2 700 g, on average), weight gain (48.8 g/d) and feed conversion ratio (3.27) were unaffected by chlorella inclusion, while feed conversion ratio improved (−5%; P < 0.001) with an increase of crude fat from 3% to 5%. The digestibility of ADF (23.2% vs. 20.9%; P < 0.05) and crude fat (83.8% vs. 85.6%; P < 0.01) improved with the inclusion of chlorella at 2%, as well as the digestibility of crude fat (82.4% vs. 86.9%; P < 0.001) and gross energy (57.3% vs. 58.7%; P < 0.001) with crude fat inclusion at 5%. Plasma non-esterified fatty acids decreased (−19%; P < 0.05) in diets with 5% crude fat. Neither chlorella nor crude fat inclusion levels affected other plasma metabolites, caecal fermentations, or caecal microbiota. Overall, the inclusion of chlorella up to 2% in diets for growing rabbits did not significantly affect diet nutritional value, animal performance, or caecal activity. On the other hand, increasing crude fat to 5% improved the overall feed efficiency.

Effects of Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Essential Oil Supplementation on Growth Performance of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Fed a High-Inclusion Soybean Meal Diet.

Soybean meal (SBM) has become a common dietary replacement for fish meal (FM) in aquafeed. However, at high inclusions, SBM has been shown to have negative impacts presenting as reduced feed intake and intestinal inflammation. Medicinal plant extracts, namely essential oils, have been used to promote growth performance and immune response. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of oregano (Origanum vulgare) essential oil (OEO) inclusion on utilization of a high-inclusion SBM diet using zebrafish as a model. Five diets were used in this study: reference-FM-based diet, control-55.7% inclusion SBM diet, and three experimental SBM-based diets OEO1, OEO2, and OEO3 that were supplemented with 1%, 2%, or 3% of oregano oil, respectively. The FM group had overall better growth performance when compared with the other treatment groups; however, the OEO3 mean weight and feed conversion ratio were not significantly different from the FM group (p > 0.05) and were significantly improved compared with the SBM group (p < 0.05). Similarly, OEO2 total length was not significantly different from FM (p > 0.05) but significantly higher than the SBM group (p < 0.05). Expression of inflammation-related genes did not significantly differ between the OEO groups and the SBM-only group. However, the OEO2 and OEO3 groups displayed improved growth performance compared with the SBM group, suggesting that inclusion of OEO at or above 2% inclusion may help to alleviate common symptoms induced by a high-inclusion SBM diet.

Fault characterization and its significance on hydrocarbon migration and accumulation of western Tazhong Uplift, Tarim Basin: Insight from seismic, geochemistry, fluid inclusion and in situ U-Pb dating

Understanding the mechanisms of deep hydrocarbon accumulation is of paramount importance in the field of petroleum geology. Studying deep hydrocarbon accumulation mechanisms contributes to the development of effective reservoir management strategies and efficient extraction techniques. In this study, fluid inclusion observation, homogenization temperatures, in situ calcite U-Pb dating, geochemical analyses and seismic data were applied to investigate the hydrocarbon charging history of the western Tazhong Uplift, and the migration pathways were further analyzed to establish the history of oil and gas accumulation in the study area. The results reveal three distinct episodes of oil and gas charging processes in the western Tazhong Uplift. The first episode, determined by in situ calcite U-Pb dating bearing primary oil inclusions, occurred during the late Caledonian to early Hercynian orogeny. This episode is characterized by yellowish fluoresce color oil inclusions. The second episode involved a complex variation of the thermal maturity of oil. Mature oil, with oil inclusions preferentially fluorescing yellow-green color, was charged into the reservoirs near the Tazhong No.1 fault. Subsequently, the high mature oil characterized by blue-fluorescing oil inclusions was charged. At the same time, the mature oil migrated vertically into the reservoir away from the Tazhong No.1 fault along the strike slip faults. The third charging process is dominant by high mature oil in the Southwest of the western Tazhong Uplift, whereas the gas intrusion occurred in the area near the Shuntuoguole Low Uplift. Furthermore, the strike slip faults and reverse faults were distinguished based on the seismic profiles and coherence diagram. The intersections of strike slip faults and Tazhong No.1 fault developing more fractures served as oil and gas charging points. The oil production revealed that the strike slip faults acted as important hydrocarbon migration pathways. This study provides valuable insights into the processes of hydrocarbon accumulation and offers further evidence for deep oil exploration in the region.

Soybean oil, linoleic acid source, in lamb diets: carcass traits and meat quality.

We developed a study to determine the ideal level of inclusion of soybean oil (SBOil) in the diet without affecting the quantitative and qualitative parameters of the carcass and meat of lambs in a feedlot system; therefore, determining the ideal level of inclusion. Forty male lambs (Santa Inês breed) were used. The initial body weight and age averaged 34.88 ± 3.19kg and 5months, respectively. Experimental units (lambs) were randomly distributed in 5 different diets: inclusion levels of SBOil: 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120g/kg of dry matter (DM). The SOil inclusion reduced the DM intake (P < 0.001), Total digestible nutrients (P = 0.004), and crude protein (P < 0.001). Total weight gain (P < 0.001) decreased with the SBOil inclusion and subcutaneous fat thickness (P = 0.017) showed the same behaviour. The final body weight decreased by 42.9g/kgDM until the inclusion level of 30g/kgDM; from this level it was reduced by 145g/kgDM. The hot and cold carcass weights (P = 0.013) decreased by 36.6g/kgDM after including 30g/kgDM of SBOil. Meat physicochemical composition was not altered (P > 0.05). Lower meat tenderness values ​​were obtained at the levels of 60 and 90g/kgDM. The inclusion above 30g/kgDM decreased meat tenderness. It is concluded that soybean oil should be included up to 30g/kgDM in diets. It is important to note that with diets with 60% concentrate, SBOil levels greater than 30g/kgDM promote yield losses.

PSIX-6 Algal oil as an alternative source of docosahexaenoic acid in feline diets

Abstract The global demand for eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation by humans and their necessity in companion animal foods has raised questions related to environmental sustainability and nutrient content of fish oil. The combination of reported diminishing EPA and DHA content in fish oil and the forecasting of a significant decline in global fish stocks over the next decade make it critical to consider alternative sources of omega-3 fatty acids to reduce dependence on fish harvests. Cultured algal oil has been identified as a promising and viable alternative to fish-based oils. As such, the purpose of this study was to determine the inclusion level of algal oil in cat foods necessary to deliver the same serum concentrations of DHA provided from fish oil. Cats (n = 26) were first fed a control food formulated to avoid ingredients that contain long chain omega-3 fatty acids [ɑ-linolenic (ALA), EPA, and DHA] for 5 wk, to establish a baseline serum concentrations of these fatty acids. Cats were then randomized into two groups, and fed test foods containing either fish oil or algal oil in sequential increasing levels of DHA (0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.6%) for 5-wk periods each. Blood was analyzed for serum DHA and EPA concentrations after each of these feeding periods. A regression analysis was used to calculate a bioequivalence factor between fish oil and algal oil inclusion levels. There was no difference (P &amp;gt; 0.05) in intake or body weight between cats consuming diets containing algal oil or fish oil. Analysis of serum fatty acid concentrations showed that increasing fish and algal oil had no effect (P &amp;gt; 0.05) on serum linolenic acid, ALA, or arachidonic acid; however, increasing fish and algal oil did have an effect on DHA such that serum DHA was increased at similar rates as fish oil (P = 0.050) and algal oil (P = 0.026) levels were increased in the diet. Although increasing levels of fish and algal oil both increased serum EPA concentrations (P &amp;lt; 0.001), fish oil increased serum EPA to a greater extent than algal oil when fed at all levels. Overall, these data indicate that inclusion of algal oil is a good alternative dietary source of DHA, but less of EPA, and that algal oil will need to be added to the diet in higher concentrations to achieve similar serum EPA concentrations as fish oil.

Impact of adding eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid-rich fish oil in sow and piglet diets on blood oxylipins and immune indicators of weaned piglets

Weaning is a decisive event in piglets’ life. This study aimed to evaluate whether the inclusion of fish oil, rich in eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids (EPA and DHA), in sow and piglet diets, increased the concentration of anti-inflammatory molecules in the blood of weaned piglets and whether the effect was dependent on the pigs being born with either low or a high birth BW (bBW). Thirty-six sows in four consecutive batches were randomly distributed between a control diet with animal fat (15 g/kg in gestation and 30 g/kg in lactation) or a n-3 long-chain fatty acid diet (LCFA; totally or half replacing animal fat by fish oil during gestation and lactation, respectively) from service until weaning (ca. 28 days). At birth, the two lightest (LBW) and the two heaviest (HBW) piglets in each litter were identified and, at weaning, grouped in pens by pairs prioritising their bBW. Pens were further distributed into a control (30 g/kg animal fat) or n-3 LCFA diet (totally replacing animal fat by fish oil) for 28 days. At the end of the trial, blood was collected from piglets in the first batch (n = 48). Serum fatty acids (FAs) were quantified by GC, plasma oxylipins by ultra-HPLC-MS, and plasma immune indicators by ELISA. An interaction between piglet diet and bBW for average daily gain (P = 0.020) and average daily feed intake (P = 0.014) during the whole postweaning indicated that dietary n-3 LCFA−promoted LBW piglets to have a similar growth and intake than HBW piglets reaching 1.5 kg average BW more at the end of the postweaning period than LBW control piglets. Fish oil in piglet diets also increased the concentrations of total n-3 FA, EPA and DHA (all P < 0.001), their resultant oxylipins, particularly their hydroxy derivatives from lipoxygenase enzymatic pathway (all P < 0.001) and tended to increase immunoglobulin M (P = 0.067) in blood. Regarding the bBW category, LBW piglets tend to increase tumour necrosis factor α in plasma (P = 0.083) compared to HBW. It is concluded that fish oil in postweaning diets could enhance the daily gain and feed intake of LBW piglets, increasing the concentration of serum n-3 FAs and their derived oxylipins in plasma.

Artemisia afra essential oils inclusion in diets induces desirable effects on meat quality and fatty acid profiles of broilers chickens

The effects of Artemisia afra (African wormwood) essential oil incorporation in diets on meat quality and fatty acid profilers of broilers was assessed. Four hundred Cobb500 day-old chicks were obtained and placed randomly into the following 4 diets replicated 10 times: NC-Negative control (broiler diet without antibiotics), PC-positive control (broiler diet with zinc bacitracin), AA1-broiler diet + 0.1 % A. afra essential oil and AA2 - broiler diet + 0.3% A. afra essential oil. A pen having 10 chicks was regarded as the experimental unit. From the results, all carcass traits were influenced (P < 0.01) by diet apart from the dressing out percentage. The highest slaughter weights (1846g) and hot carcass weight (1427.36g) were obtained in birds fed the AA1 diet. Highest ultimate pH value (6.24) was obtained from the birds fed the AA1 while the highest values for meat lightness (L*) were obtained in birds offered the AA1 and NC diets (55.73 and 55.82). Cooking loss was highest in birds fed the NC (31.01%) diet. Birds fed the AA2 diet (23.7mg/g)) had the highest intramuscular fat followed by the AA1 fed birds. Inclusion of A. afra essential oils in diets also increased the proportion of PUFAs, n-6 and n-3 fatty acids and the PUFA/SFA ratios. In conclusion, the incorporation of A. afra essential oil in diets improved meat quality and fatty acid composition of broiler meat for the benefit of consumers.

The role of lipid emulsions containing omega-3 fatty acids for medical and surgical critical care patients

In critical illness the regulation of inflammation and oxidative stress can improve patient outcomes, and thus omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been used as part of parenteral nutrition (PN) owing to their potential anti-inflammatory effects. The international lipids in PN Summit, encompassed discussions and the production of consensus guidelines concerning PN intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) use in critical care. The Lipid Summit participants agreed that the inclusion of fish oil in ILEs is associated with meaningful clinical benefits without signals of harm, based on a strong biological rationale and current clinical evidence. Decisions concerning ILE choice should be made based on current evidence, thus addressing clinical requirements for guidance, particularly as further definitive evidence seems unlikely to occur. In addition, a future of individualized ICU care is envisioned, yielding better clinical outcomes. This approach will require the greater use of intelligent study designs incorporating the use of biomarkers of omega-3 derivatives, inflammatory-resolving processes, and/or muscle protein breakdown.

Effective complete replacement of fish oil by linseed oil in diets for thick-lipped grey mullet (Chelon labrosus) juveniles reared at three environmental salinities

One of the major challenges for fish oil replacement by alternative oils is the limited capacity of marine fish species to convert 18C fatty acids into long-chain poly unsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA). Since salinity markedly affects this conversion capacity, euryhaline species, such as thick-lipped grey mullet (Chelon labrosus), may have a good potential to use diets without inclusion of fish oil. To test this hypothesis, thick-lipped grey mullet juveniles were fed two different diets based on fish oil (FO diet) or linseed oil (LO diet) at three different salinities: 46 ppt, 35 ppt, and 16 ppt. At the end of the trial, the biochemical and fatty acid composition of whole-body, liver, and muscle, as well as the relative expression of the genes codifying for the elongase Elovl5 and the desaturase Fads2 in liver, were determined. The results showed the good capacity of mullet juveniles to convert 18C fatty acids into LC-PUFA, which was enhanced by the replacement of FO by LO and the reduction of salinity to an isosmotic level (16 ppt). Besides, these juveniles efficiently used diets with complete replacement of FO by LO with growth performance, body composition, and LC-PUFA fatty acid profiles similar to those of fish fed FO, particularly when reared at 16 ppt.

Rheological and sensory properties of chickpea and quinoa pastes and gels for plant-based product development.

The aim of this study was to investigate the modification of mechanical, rheological, and sensory properties of chickpea pastes and gels by incorporating other ingredients (olive oil or quinoa flour), to develop plant-based alternatives that meet consumer demands for healthy, natural, and enjoyable food products. The pastes and gels were made with different amounts of chickpea flour (9% and 12%, respectively). For each product, a first set of products with different oil content and a second set with quinoa flour (either added or replaced) were produced. The viscoelastic properties of the pastes and the mechanical properties of the gels were measured. Sensory evaluation and preference assessment were carried out with 100 participants using ranking tests. The study found remarkable differences in rheological, mechanical, and sensory properties of chickpea products upon the inclusion of oil and quinoa flour. The addition of oil increased the viscosity and decreased the elastic contribution to the viscoelasticity of the pastes, while it improved the firmness and plasticity in gels. It also increased the creaminess and preference of both pastes and gels. Replacing chickpea with quinoa flour resulted in less viscous pastes and gels with less firmness and more plasticity. In terms of sensory properties, the use of quinoa as a replacement ingredient resulted in less lumpiness in the chickpea paste and less consistency and more creaminess in both the pastes and gels, which had a positive effect on preference. The addition of quinoa increased the viscosity of pastes and the firmness and stiffness of gels. It increased the consistency and creaminess of both pastes and gels. Quinoa flour and/or olive oil are suitable ingredients in the formulation of chickpea-based products. They contribute to the structure of the system, providing different textural properties that improve acceptance.

Orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil inclusion in high-energy diets for feedlot lambs: productivity, eating behavior, carcass characteristics, rumen morphometry, and fatty acid profile of the meat

This study evaluated the effect of different orange essential oil (OEO) inclusion rates on live weight gain, eating behavior, carcass characteristics, morphology of the ruminal epithelium, and fatty acid profile in the meat of feedlot lambs. Forty uncastrated Dorper × Santa Inês ram lambs with an initial average body weight of 21.8 ± 4.7 kg and average age of 86 ± 15 days were allocated to one of five dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design. Dietary treatments consisted of a 90:10 concentrate-to-forage ratio total mixed ration supplemented as follows: 1. non-additive supplementation (Control), and 2. additive supplementation with 100, 500, and 1000 mg OEO/kg diet DM (OEO100, OEO500, and OEO1000) or with 25 mg sodium monensin/kg diet DM (MON). The feeding lasted 84 d. Supplementation with OEO increased linearly dry matter intake (DMI), growth rate and feed efficiency (FE). Because of the linear increases in growth rate and the efficiency of energy utilization of the diet, lambs receiving OEO exhibited a greater (increasing linear effect) hot carcass weight (HCW), Longissimus muscle area (LMA), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), and body wall thickness (BWT) than lambs fed with Control. Lambs fed MON had lower DMI, growth rate and FE than Control and OEO. Compared to Control and OEO supplemented, lambs that received MON showed lower HCW, LMA, SFT, and BWT. Lambs fed with MON had lower oocyst counts than lambs fed with all other treatments. Lambs fed with MON spent more time eating and ruminating, with higher chewing rates than lambs fed all other diets. Rumen morphometry was unaffected by dietary treatment. The OEO supplementation increased the sum of monounsaturated fatty acids, improved the human health promotion index (HP index), and reduced the thrombogenicity index in the meat relative to lambs fed the MON treatment. Under the conditions in which the experiment was conducted, the inclusion of up to 1000 g/kg diet DM in high-energy finishing diets promotes DMI and improved growth performance and FE. Improvements in the carcass (HCW, LMA, and BTF) with OEO supplementation were mainly due to improvements in growth rate rather than effects on gain composition. Based on growth performance and carcass characteristics, OEO was a superior feed additive to sodium monensin. The OEO supplementation has a discreet effect on the fatty acid profile of the meat, but it is sufficient to improve the HP index. These findings highlight its potential as an effective additive for enhancing lamb productivity.