Condensed tannins to increase bioactive fatty acids in the milk from Caninde, Repartida, and Saanen goats

Bioactive fatty acids present in goat milk have the ability to reduce the risks of coronary heart disease in humans, and condensed tannins (CT) can modulate the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) biohydrogenation process in the rumen and consequently increase the levels of these fatty acids. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the inclusion of CT in the diet for Caninde, Repartida, and Saanen goats to increase the level of bioactive fatty acids in milk. Twenty-two lactating does of three genetic groups, six Caninde, eight Repartida, and eight Saanen, were randomly assigned in a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement of three genetic groups and two diets (control and with 50 g CT/kg DM). The inclusion of CT in the diet did not change (P > 0.05) nutrient intake and performance. However, the inclusion of CT promoted an increase (P < 0.05) in C14:1; cis-9; C18:2n6; C18:3n6; C18:3n3; PUFA; and long-chain fatty acids and reduction (P < 0.05) of C11; C12; C14;omega 6/omega 3; and atherogenicity index in milk fat. Thus, it is recommended to include CT in the diet for Caninde, Repartida, and Saanen goats to increase the level of bioactive fatty acids in milk. The inclusion of the tannins of Acacia mearnsii promoted an increase in C14:1; cis-9; C18:2n6; C18:3n6; C18:3n3; polyunsaturated fatty acid; and long-chain fatty acids and reduction of C11; C12; C14;omega 6/omega 3; and atherogenicity index in milk fat.

Automated summary

Bioactive fatty acids in goat milk can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. The inclusion of condensed tannins (CT) can increase the level of bioactive fatty acids in milk while reducing harmful substances.