Protein - The Essence Of Feed

We all know that protein is an important nutrient for humans, and it is equally important for poultry and all other classes of animals. This article aims to spotlight the importance, availability and handling considerations that should be factored into protein procurement in India.

The amino acid profiles directly influence protein availability and play a significant role in animal growth, immunity, adaptation to the environment and many other biological functions, as well as end-use characteristics such as egg production and meat quality.

Furthermore, protein synthesis promotes cell and tissue growth, such as organ development and function.
While it’s a vital part of feed formulations, protein is also known to be the most expensive ingredient, and it cannot be replaced or substituted with other elements.

Biological Functions of Protein

To add to it, specific amino acids such as lysine contribute to other biological functions. For example, the presence of lysine improves carcass quality of chickens by supporting formation of type IIB (fast glycolytic) fibres, which hold smaller amounts of fat and have less nutrient loss during the cooking process; as opposed to type IIA (fast oxido-glycolytic) fibres, which form when lysine is deficient.

Threonine has significant metabolic roles and helps regulate…