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Protein Sources in Animal Nutrition: Uses and Trends
In modern animal production, ensuring proper nutrition is crucial for achieving optimal growth and performance. Feed accounts for approximately 70% of the total operational costs, with protein being the most expensive component—making up about 33% of that cost. This highlights the importance of selecting high-quality, cost-effective protein sources to support animal health and productivity.
Proteins are complex molecules made up of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. When consumed, they are broken down in the digestive system into smaller peptides and free amino acids, which are then absorbed and used to build new proteins in the body. These include structural proteins like muscle tissue and functional ones like enzymes. Amino acids are classified as essential or non-essential; the former must be obtained through the diet, while the latter can be synthesized by the body.
To meet these nutritional needs, zootechnicians and feed formulators seek ingredients that offer a balanced amino acid profile at lower costs. This has led to increased research into alternative protein sources, such as hydrolyzed proteins, which not only provide essential nutrients but also deliver additional benefits like antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties.
In Brazil, the agro-industry produces various protein sources, including soybean meal and by-products from the meatpacking industry. Soy, in particular, is one of the most widely used plant-based proteins due to its high quality and nutritional value. Its derivatives, such as soy protein concentrate (SPC), are popular in animal feeds because they are rich in protein and free from anti-nutritional factors.
Soybean meal remains a key ingredient in animal nutrition, offering a stable source of protein with relatively low levels of anti-nutritional compounds. However, researchers continue to focus on improving amino acid digestibility and energy utilization to enhance its effectiveness.
Animal-derived proteins, such as meat and bone meal, feather meal, and poultry viscera meal, also play an important role in feed formulation. While these by-products were once considered waste, they now represent valuable sources of protein and minerals. However, their variability in composition and digestibility requires careful processing to maximize their nutritional potential.
One promising development is the use of functional peptides—short chains of amino acids that offer physiological benefits such as immune support, improved digestion, and better metabolic function. These bioactive molecules are increasingly being incorporated into animal feeds to boost performance and overall health.
Chicken protein hydrolysate, for example, is produced through enzymatic processes that break down proteins into smaller, more digestible components. It offers a high protein content, a balanced amino acid profile, and excellent palatability, making it ideal for aquaculture and livestock feeding. Similarly, feather enzymatic hydrolysate provides a rich source of essential amino acids and bioactive peptides, enhancing nutrient absorption and animal well-being.
Insect meal, particularly from species like Tenebrio molitor, is gaining attention as a sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional protein sources. With a high protein content and a favorable amino acid profile, it shows great potential in replacing soybean meal in poultry and swine diets.
Other emerging alternatives include yeast, bee pollen, and various plant-based by-products like cottonseed and sunflower bran. These options not only reduce reliance on conventional protein sources but also contribute to more sustainable and diverse feed formulations.
As the demand for high-quality, functional feed ingredients continues to grow, the use of processed proteins—especially those derived from by-products—has become a key trend in the animal nutrition industry. Enzymatic hydrolysis plays a central role in unlocking the full potential of these materials, transforming them into valuable, bioactive components that improve animal performance, health, and welfare.