Why are vitamins important in livestock nutrition?

Vitamins play a crucial role in livestock nutrition because they are vital for various metabolic processes and support immune function. Each vitamin serves specific functions that are essential for maintaining health and productivity in livestock.

For instance, certain vitamins like A, D, E, and K are important for vision, bone health, antioxidant functions, and blood clotting, respectively. B-vitamins, which include thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin, are essential for energy metabolism, supporting the conversion of feed into usable energy. This comprehensive involvement in metabolic pathways ensures that livestock can efficiently use nutrients from their diets, which is critical for growth, reproduction, and overall health.

Furthermore, vitamins contribute to the proper functioning of the immune system. They can help animals respond better to diseases and stresses, thereby enhancing their wellbeing and productivity. Ensuring adequate vitamin levels in livestock diets is, therefore, essential for optimal health and efficiency in production systems.