L-Threonine in feed applications

What is L-Threonine?

Threonine is an essential amino acid that is isolated and identified from fibrin hydrolysis products. It is also the second or third limiting amino acid for livestock and poultry. Animals cannot synthesise threonine themselves, but it plays an extremely important physiological role in their bodies. Therefore, timely threonine supplementation is necessary for animals. Currently, L-Threonine is extensively used in medicine, food, and animal feed. Its demand is increasing annually, indicating a promising future for its applications.

Physical and chemical properties of L-Threonine ：

L-Threonine is a white crystalline powder with a slightly sweet taste. It is odourless and soluble in water but insoluble in organic solvents such as ethanol. This amino acid is chemically stable and incompatible with strong oxidants.

Functional role of L-Threonine ：

1. L-Threonine can maintain the balance of protein in the body, thus promoting the normal growth of animals.

2. L-Threonine promotes antibody production, strengthens the immune system, and reduces the likelihood of disease in animals.It is the main component of plasma immunoglobulin in the body. A deficiency in threonine can inhibit the production of immunoglobulins, T and B lymphocytes, and affect immune function. What's more， threonine promotes the differentiation and development of bone marrow T-lymphocyte precursors into mature T-lymphocytes.

3. L-Threonine helps to maintain the strength and flexibility of connective tissues and muscles throughout the body. It also aids in the production of collagen, elastin, and muscle tissue, thereby enhancing animal vitality and improving meat quality.

4. L-Threonine aids in the development of robust bones and tooth enamel, expedites wound healing and injury repair, and inhibits fat buildup in the liver.

Practical applications of L-Threonine：

1. Nutritional fortification of feed: L-Threonine is an essential amino acid. It is often added to the feed of immature piglets and poultry. It is the second limiting amino acid of pig feed and the third limiting amino acid of poultry feed. It is added to the feed mainly made of wheat, barley, etc. It can supplement the nutrients and improve the quality of the meat.

2. Amino acid balancer：L-threonine can help maintain amino acid balance in the body and promote protein deposition. When there is an excess of methionine and lysine, supplementing with the right amount of L-threonine can eliminate weight loss and reduce growth inhibition caused by excess tryptophan. Additionally, L-threonine is metabolised to produce glycine, which provides a single carbon unit. Therefore, L-threonine can balance the amino acid composition of the feed, promoting animal growth and maintenance, increasing weight gain and lean meat ratio, and reducing the feed-to-meat ratio.

3. Environmental friendly agent: L-Threonine can reduce the ammonia excretion of animals, reduce environmental pollution, improve feeding conditions, and at the same time can reduce the cost of feed ingredients.

4. Immunity enhancer: Based on the effect of L-Threonine on immune function, L-Threonine is also commonly used to improve the production performance and immune function of broilers.

Storage Methods about L-Threonine：

It is recommended to use brown wide-mouth glass bottles for storage. Store the product in a cool, dry place away from light.