Katholieke Universiteit Leuven; Departement Biosystemen; Afdeling Dier-Voeding-Kwaliteit, more
Numerous studies have shown that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are effective in preventing or treating several diseases. Unfortunately, in many western countries, the average intake is below the recommended level, raising interest in food enrichment with omega-3 PUFA. In this regard, the fatty acid composition of eggs can be modified by feed adaptation. Nowadays, enriched eggs are mostly produced through feed supplementation with flaxseed, and are thus mainly enriched in ALA. However, in humans, the conversion from ALA to EPA and, subsequently, DHA is rather limited. Moreover, the health promoting effects are mostly ascribed to EPA and DHA. To that end, the aim of this research is to study the impact of feed supplementation with ALA, EPA and/or DHA rich algal biomass on the omega-3 PUFA composition of egg yolk and the zootechnical performance of the hens.
