Vol. 7, Issue 4 (2018)

Author(s):
Promila and Saurabh Baloda

Abstract:
Linseed oil, also known as flaxseed oil or flax oil, is a colourless to yellowish oil obtained from the dried, ripened seeds of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum). Linseed, are rich in LNA (alpha linolenic acid), a precursor of fatty acids like EPA and DHA. The enrichment of layer feeds with oilseed, such as linseed promotes the rapid incorporation of omega-3 fatty acid into the yolk. EPA and DHA are long chain fatty acid which prevents the occurrence of cardiac problems and helps in retinal, mental and overall development of fetus. Considering the potential health benefits of n-3 PUFA, these should be increased in the human diet. The supply of n-3 PUFA can be increased in the animal food sources that the people consume in sufficient amounts. In this regard, poultry eggs are a good source of n-3 PUFA because they can be fortified with n-3 PUFA very easily by dietary supplementations to the laying hens. The enrichment of laying-hen rations with vegetable oils such as linseed or canola, can readily promote the deposition of n-3 PUFA into egg yolk.