Summary
This field trial examined how dietary flaxseed oil supplementation modulates lipid metabolism and fatty acid composition in village chickens under tropical conditions. The study measured performance indicators alongside detailed lipid profiling to assess whether flaxseed oil—a source of α-linolenic acid—could improve the nutritional quality of poultry meat. The findings contribute to evidence on plant-based strategies for enhancing omega-3 fatty acid content in smallholder poultry systems.
UK applicability
Whilst UK poultry systems differ substantially in scale and breed (commercial versus village chickens), the mechanistic findings on flaxseed oil's effects on lipid deposition may inform feed supplementation strategies in heritage or free-range systems seeking to enhance meat nutritional quality. Tropical climate conditions may limit direct applicability to UK production environments.
Key measures
Growth performance metrics, carcass lipid content, fatty acid composition (saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids), omega-3 and omega-6 PUFA concentrations, omega-3 to omega-6 ratio
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated the effect of dietary flaxseed oil supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and fatty acid composition (including omega-3 and omega-6 PUFA) in village chickens. Changes in lipid profiles and omega fatty acid ratios were measured as primary endpoints.
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