Amino acids

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Amino acids

Amino Acids – the protein building-blocks

Amino acids are vital for all living beings to build proteins. The body needs around 20 different amino acids to make these proteins and function correctly. Ten of these amino acids are so-called essential, meaning that the animal is not able to synthesise them itself and must rely on supplementation via feed.

Why amino acids are so important

Our livestock needs amino acids at the right time in the right quantity for protein synthesis, i.e. the increase in muscle mass, growth or the production of meat, milk and eggs. If just one of the essential amino acids is missing, the protein synthesis grinds to a halt. 

That is why it is important that the feed they are given contains as many amino acids as possible in the required quantity. Individual amino acids, such as lysine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan, valine etc. can be supplemented to make sure growth processes are not interrupted. 

Covering the amino acid requirement without adding amino acids to the feed is only possible with a considerable protein oversupply. This puts a strain on the metabolism of the animals and also on the environment through increased nitrogen excretion. 

Did you know?

  • The use of amino acids in feed reduces nitrogen excretion by 35%.

Selected amino acids

L-valine

L-valine is an essential nutrient for all species. As a branched-chain amino acid, it is needed for protein biosynthesis and is specifically vital for muscle growth and energy production. Plant-based feedstuffs are generally low in valine content, therefore supplementing this next-limiting amino acid according to the concept of the ideal amino acid profile makes a valuable contribution to sustainability because it allows further reduction of the dietary crude protein level.

Taurine

Taurine is an amino acid, which can be synthesized from cysteine by the animal except for cats. Taurine is involved in development of the central nervous system, in transport of bivalent metal ions and in regulation of water content of the cells. Taurine acts as protector of cell membrane and enhances the production and effectiveness of bile.

 

DL Methionine

Methionine is the first-limiting amino acid in many diets for poultry and a co-limiting amino acid for pigs as well as milk protein synthesis. It is involved in the development of the digestive tract and growth performance. In addition, it helps increase muscle mass and feather development, and is also involved in improving egg production.

 

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