Impact of Unsaturated Fat Supplementation on Mammary Gland Growth and Development in Dairy Animals

Abstract

The dairy industry plays a pivotal role in promoting food security across human societies globally by providing high-quality protein sources, primarily raw milk, sourced from animal husbandry. A key factor contributing to the economy of the dairy industry is the enhancement of both the quality and quantity of milk produced in dairy farms. One of the strategies used to increase milk production is the use of fats in livestock feeding. Despite the long history of adding fats to animal diets, information on the effects of varying types and amounts of fat consumption at different stages of animal breeding remains scarce. Unsaturated fats, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids, are commonly used in dairy farms. In addition to their nutritional value in providing energy for animals, they have been shown to have positive effects on growth and overall health. This has led to their categorization as functional foods. These compounds increase milk production by promoting the growth and development of mammary tissue through changing gene expression. This section aims to present a brief summary of the impact of consuming unsaturated fats on the growth and development of the mammary gland.