Role of Omega-3 Enriched Diets in Improving Growth, Carcass Traits, and Meat Quality in Beef Cattle

Abstract

The incorporation of omega-3 fatty acids into livestock diets has gained significant attention due to their beneficial effects on animal performance, carcass characteristics, and nutritional quality of meat products. This study explores the role of omega-3 enriched diets in improving growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in beef cattle. Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily derived from sources such as flaxseed, fish oil, and algae, are known to modulate lipid metabolism, enhance immune response, and reduce oxidative stress in ruminants. Evidence indicates that supplementation with omega-3 improves feed efficiency and average daily gain, resulting in optimized growth rates. Furthermore, carcass evaluation shows favorable changes in fat deposition, marbling scores, and dressing percentage, which directly contribute to improved market value. In terms of meat quality, omega-3 enriched diets increase the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), leading to healthier lipid profiles for consumers. Additionally, omega-3 supplementation is associated with improved meat tenderness, juiciness, and flavor, while reducing cholesterol levels and enhancing shelf life through better oxidative stability. These findings highlight the dual benefits of omega-3 enrichment: advancing cattle productivity and offering health-promoting meat for human consumption. The application of omega-3 enriched diets represents a sustainable approach to meeting consumer demands for functional foods while maintaining profitability in beef production systems. Further research is recommended to determine optimal supplementation strategies, cost-effectiveness, and long-term impacts on both animal welfare and product quality.