The Role of Fish Oil in Animal Nutrition
Modern animal nutrition requires ingredients that are not only energetic, but also functional: capable of improving health, productive performance, and the quality of final products.
Within this approach, fish oil is recognized worldwide as a strategic ingredient in the formulation of food for fish, birds, dogs, and cats.
Why is fish oil so valued?
Fish oil is naturally rich in omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids: mainly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
These compounds are biologically active, with proven effects on:
✅ Immune Health: EPA and DHA modulate the inflammatory response and enhance resistance to infections.
✅ Reproductive health: In birds and fish, omega-3s improve fertility, offspring quality, and hatchability.
✅ Growth and feed efficiency: Studies in salmonids and tilapia show that diets enriched with EPA/DHA improve feed conversion and weight gain.
✅ Dermal and neurological health: In dogs and cats, fish oil contributes to coat shine, skin health, and early cognitive development.
What technical parameters should be considered when selecting a fish oil?
Not all fish oils offer the same benefits. To ensure nutritional and functional quality, the main parameters that should be evaluated are:
International scientific evidence supports these parameters
Codex Alimentarius (FAO/WHO) establishes limits for peroxides, acidity and contaminants in oils intended for animal consumption.
EU Regulation (EC) No 183/2005 demands strict control of heavy metals, dioxins and organic contaminants in fish oils for animal feed.
AAFCO specifies composition and stability requirements for lipid ingredients in pet diets.
How does MCE Global support the industry?
In MCE Global We not only offer you functional oils of high nutritional quality:
We have the support of a Technical Sales Manager, an expert in animal nutrition, who can provide you with technical advice on:
- Select the most appropriate product according to species and stage of production.
- Interpret analytical parameters (PV, AV, IV, EPA/DHA) of each batch.
- Optimize formulations to maximize animal performance and health.
- Ensure compliance with international quality and safety standards.
In conclusion
The correct choice of fish oil is a strategic decision that directly impacts health, production efficiency, and final quality in aquaculture, poultry, and pet nutrition.
It's not just about adding energy: it's about being an active part of the functional nutrition that the modern market demands.
If you'd like to receive specialized technical advice and learn more about our portfolio of high-quality oils, please contact us.
MCE Global – Ingredients that make the difference