What is the role of antioxidants in livestock nutrition?

Antioxidants play a crucial role in livestock nutrition primarily by supporting overall immune function. They are compounds that help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and lead to oxidative stress. When animals are exposed to stressors such as disease, harsh environmental conditions, or intensive farming practices, the production of free radicals increases. Antioxidants assist in mitigating this oxidative stress, thereby protecting the immune system and enhancing the animal's ability to fend off infections and diseases.

By strengthening the immune response, antioxidants contribute to better health outcomes, which can lead to improved productivity and overall performance in livestock. This aspect is especially important in modern livestock production, where maintaining animal health directly correlates with economic viability.

In contrast, while antioxidants may have some indirect effects on growth rates and reproductive success by improving health and reducing disease, their primary role is in supporting the immune system. They are not a primary energy source, as their main function is not energy delivery but rather protection against oxidative damage.