USE OF PROTEIN CROSS-LINKING ENZYMES IN RUMINANT FEED

摘要

Protein cross-linking enzymes, such as transglutaminase, are used in ruminant feeds in order to improve protein and amino acid utilization by the ruminant. Previously ruminant feed, such as silage, is subjected to microbial proteolysis both before feeding to the animal (in other words during ensilage, or fodder fermentation) as well as in the rumen resulting in degradation of valuable protein that is of nutritional benefit to the ruminant. In order to decrease the degradation of this protein, and so allow a greater proportion to reach the small intestine of the ruminant, proteins in the feed are cross-linked before they are fed to the animal, or ruminant feed is supplemented with an active protein cross-linking enzyme.