What is the function of antioxidants in animal feeds?

What is the function of antioxidants in animal feeds?

• A. To prevent rancidity of unsaturated fats.
• B. To increase energy density.
• C. To improve palatability.
• D. To act as a primary mineral source.

Answer: (A)

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.