Microalgae Schizochytrium limacinum as an alternative to fish oil in enriching table eggs with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Abstract

BACKGROUND\nThe research deals with the addition of microalgae Schizochytrium limacinum as an alternative to fish oil in a feed-mixture for laying-hens and its effect on the deposition of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ALA, EPA and DHA) in the lipids of egg yolks. In the study, 240 Tetra SL laying hens housed in enriched cages were used, divided into 6 groups, each in 5 repetitions. Groups E1, E3 and E5 were given 0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5% of microalgae and groups E2, E4 and E6 were given feed mixtures with 0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5% of fish oil. The mixtures were modified on the basis of 17% of the crude protein and 11.7 MJ ME/kg.\n\n\nRESULTS\nThe results showed satisfactory disposal of n-3 PUFA in egg yolks of laying-hens fed mixtures with the addition of either fish oil or microalgae. Eggs of E1, E3 and E5 groups contained in 100 g 321.07 mg, 361.60 mg and 399.34 mg n-3 PUFA (P<0.001). Eggs of E2, E4 and E6 groups contained in 100 g 346.25 mg, 346.17 mg and 369.02 mg n-3 PUFA (P<0.001). By increasing the content of fish oil or microalgae in feed-mixtures for laying hens, the ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFA in egg yolk lipids (P<0.001) was decreased.\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nOur results justified the usage of the microalgae Schizochytrium limacinum in the enrichment of table eggs with n-3 fatty acids as an alternative feed to the fish oil. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.