L-threonine as an important feed additive

L-Threonine is an important feed additive widely used in the feed industry. Its applications are mainly reflected in the following aspects:  

1. Balancing Amino Acids  

The growth and development of animals require a balanced ratio of various amino acids. In corn-soybean meal-based feed, L-threonine is typically the third limiting amino acid after methionine and lysine. It helps balance the amino acid composition in feed, meets the nutritional needs of animals, improves protein utilization efficiency, and promotes animal growth. For example, adding an appropriate amount of L-Threonine to pig feed can increase daily weight gain and reduce the feed-to-meat ratio, thereby improving farming efficiency.  

2. Enhancing Animal Immunity  

L-Threonine is involved in the synthesis of immunoglobulins in animals and is crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system. When animals consume sufficient L-Threonine, their immune response is enhanced, making them more resistant to diseases. In poultry farming, L-Threonine can strengthen the immunity of chickens, ducks, and other poultry, reduce disease incidence, and minimize productivity losses caused by illnesses.  

3. Improving Meat Quality  

L-Threonine plays a role in improving meat quality by regulating fat metabolism, reducing fat deposition, and increasing muscle protein content. Proper supplementation in pig farming can increase lean meat percentage, improve meat tenderness and texture, and enhance the market value of pork.  

4. Promoting Intestinal Development  

L-Threonine is a key energy source for intestinal mucosal cells, promoting their proliferation and repair while maintaining the integrity of the intestinal lining. Adding L-Threonine to the diets of young animals helps in intestinal development and maturation, improves digestive and absorptive functions, and reduces intestinal diseases. For example, appropriate supplementation in piglet feed can enhance feed intake and digestion efficiency, supporting healthy growth.  

5. Enhancing Reproductive Performance  

L-Threonine also plays a crucial role in the reproduction of breeding livestock and poultry. It is involved in hormone synthesis and metabolic regulation, positively affecting reproductive performance. In breeding pigs, supplementing L-Threonine can increase litter size, improve piglet birth weight, and enhance semen quality in boars, ultimately boosting reproductive efficiency.  

Different animals have varying requirements and tolerances for L-Threonine. In practical applications, the appropriate supplementation level should be determined based on factors such as species, growth stage, and production goals to achieve optimal results.