Interaction of Flaxseed and Length of Feeding on Fat in Pigs

Research Abstract

METABOLISM AND NUTRITION

The interaction of dietary flaxseed and length of feeding on the fatty acid profile of subcutaneous fat in grower-finisher pigs.

Authors :

J.F.Patience, A.D. Beaulieu, P. Leterme, M.E.R. Dugan, J.L. Aalhus, I. Haq, and R.T. Zijlstra

Purpose :

  • To determine the optimum combination of level and length of feeding of extruded flaxseed to achieve a desired concentration of ALA in subcutaneous fat.
  • To determine if the consistency of the elevation of ALA in the subcutaneous fat is affected by either the amount of flaxseed in the diet or the length of feeding.

Methodology :

  • 40 gilts and 40 barrows were fed either the control diet for 12 weeks, or a diet containing 10, 20, or 30% LinPRO (equivalent to 5, 10 and 15% extruded flax) for 12, 8, or 4 weeks prior to fat sampling.
  • Analysis included:
    • Effect of diet
    • Length of feeding
    • Gender, and
    • All interactions between the above effects

Results :

  • In all feeding levels and durations, the Omega-6:Omega-3 ratio was improved with LinPRO compared to pigs fed the control diet.
  • Males were found to have an increased ADG and ADFI, and a decreased FCE. There was a significant increase in backfat of the pigs as more LinPRO was included, as well as when feeding duration increased.
  • ALA was significantly higher in the pigs fed 30% LinPRO, with the highest levels being reached when fed at this level for 12 weeks. The consistency of ALA enrichment was at its highest at 12 weeks.

Conclusion :

  • Enrichment of ALA in backfat is improved by increasing either the dietary concentration of flaxseed or the length of feeding.
  • Maximal enrichment was obtained by feeding 30% LinPRO for 12 weeks.
  • Consistency of the enrichment is improved with the length of feeding.
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