Summary
This systematic review synthesises evidence from 41 peer-reviewed studies on the use of oilseed processing byproducts rich in linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids as feed supplements for dairy ruminants. The review finds that dietary incorporation of camelina, linseed, and sunflower byproducts generally improved milk fatty acid profiles without adverse effects on milk production, whilst hempseed byproducts showed promise as an alternative ingredient; however, the evidence base remains limited for some byproducts and further research is needed.
UK applicability
UK dairy producers seeking to enhance milk nutritional quality through sustainable feed ingredients may benefit from these findings, particularly given the availability of linseed and other oilseed byproducts from domestic processing. However, the review emphasises that more targeted research on specific byproducts and UK production conditions would be required before robust recommendations could be made for practice.
Key measures
Milk production volume and composition; milk fatty acid profile (saturated fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acids, n-3 fatty acids, rumenic acid, vaccenic acid)
Outcomes reported
This systematic review of 41 research studies examined the impact of oilseed industry byproducts (hemp, pumpkin, sunflower, camelina, linseed) on milk production characteristics and fatty acid composition in dairy cows, sheep, and goats. The review assessed changes in milk fatty acid profile, including saturated, unsaturated, and bioactive fatty acids (rumenic and vaccenic acid).
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.