The effect of rapeseed oil and a combination of linseed and fish oils in the diets for sheep on milk fatty acid profile

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of plant and fish oil on unsaturated fatty acids concentration in sheep milk. Fifteen milking ewes were used in the experiment. Dietary treatments consisted of either 0% supplemental oil (control group), the experimental group with supplementation of 5% of rapeseed oil (RSO) and the experimental group with 5% of blend of linseed and fish oils (n6:n3 = 2:1; LSO/FO). Fatty acid composition and basic components were determined in milk samples. Conjugated isomers of linoleic acid, either c9 t11 or t10 c12 were improved (P < 0,05) when LSO/FO was supplemented. Sheep fed LSO/FO had also higher (P < 0,05) level of EPA in milk. RSO supplements increased ΣC18:1 cis and c9 C18:1. Compared with rapeseed oil, fish and linseed oils blend seems to be more effective in increasing unsaturated fatty acids concentration in sheep milk.

Zusammenfassung deutsch