Amino acids are crucial for protein synthesis and overall growth. Here’s a list of the essential amino acids often added to animal feed formulations:

1. Lysine

   • Function: Important for protein synthesis and growth. It is often the most limiting amino acid in many animal feeds, especially in pigs and poultry.

   • Source: Soybean meal, corn, or synthetic lysine can be added to diets.

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2. Methionine

   • Function: Plays a role in protein synthesis and is crucial for poultry and swine, especially for feather growth.

   • Source: Corn, soybean meal, and synthetic methionine (DL-methionine) are common sources.

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3. Threonine

   • Function: Important for protein metabolism and is involved in gut health.

   • Source: Often supplemented in feeds for pigs, poultry, and cattle.

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4. Tryptophan

   • Function: Involved in protein synthesis and is a precursor to serotonin, influencing animal behavior and well-being.

   • Source: Generally supplemented in poultry feeds.

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5. Valine

   • Function: Helps in muscle metabolism and repair.

   • Source: Commonly found in grains and legumes but often supplemented in livestock feeds.

6. Leucine

   • Function: Helps with muscle growth and protein synthesis.

   • Source: Found in most plant-based protein sources, often supplemented in monogastric animal feeds like poultry.

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7. Isoleucine

   • Function: Important for muscle repair and energy production, often used in combination with other branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs).

   • Source: Supplemented in poultry and swine feeds.

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8. Histidine

   • Function: Important for growth and development, and supports enzyme functions.

   • Source: Supplemented in specific animal diets, especially for poultry and young animals.

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9. Arginine

   • Function: Vital for immune function and the urea cycle. It also aids in wound healing and overall metabolism.

   • Source: Arginine is usually supplemented in feed for pigs and poultry.

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10. Cysteine

    • Function: Helps with the formation of proteins, collagen, and cartilage, and supports antioxidant defenses.

    • Source: Often added in aquaculture feeds, particularly for fish and shrimp.

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