Flax Oil
Use: Feed Supplement
Flax (also known as linseed) is native to the region extending from the eastern Mediterranean to India, and was probably first domesticated in the Middle East. It was extensively cultivated in ancient Ethiopia and ancient Egypt. Flax is grown for its seed and for its fibre. Various parts of the plant are used to make fabric, dye, paper, medicines, fishing nets, wood-finishing products, hair gels and soap.
Flax seed is the richest known food source of omega-3 fatty acids. It provides essential nutrients, including protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. It is also a good source of soluble and insoluble dietary fibre, and can be used to raise energy levels when other feeds fall short of energy requirements. Whereas other oils will add fat to the body, flax oil converts food to more usable nutrients.
A study at the University of Manitoba showed that when flax was fed to sows at a rate of 99 lb or 45 kg/year, they lost less weight and maintained more back fat during lactation than sows fed regular rations. Piglets weaned from flax-fed sows gained weight faster than those fed normal rations.
Benefits
Cattle and Dairy:
- Improved reproduction rates.
- Increases milk production.Increases butterfat.
- Protects calves against the cold.
- Improves weight gain and marbling in beef cattle.
Hogs:
- Increases energy at pre-farrowing.
- Prevents constipation.
Sheep and Goats:
- Improves milk production and reproduction.
Directions for Use
- Cattle and Dairy: 4-8 oz or 113-226 g/day, top dressed if there is an energy shortage in the feed
- Calves: 1 tbsp or 15 g twice/day with milk or incorporate into calf starter 50/50 with soybean meal.
- Sheep and Goats: 1-2 oz or 28-56 g/day, top dressed. Add to the total mixed ration or top dress.
- Hogs: 1-2 oz or 28-56 g/day, top dressed.
- Horses: 3-4 oz or 85-113 g/day.
- Poultry: 10 % of ration for omega-3 eggs.
Notes:
- Feeding too much flaxseed can reduce production, weight gain, egg size, and produce thin egg shells.
- The fat in flax seed tends to become rancid quickly and can give off flavours in the egg; and increase the hens’ need for vitamins such as Vitamin E.
- Flax seed oil may stick to feeders.
Packaging
- 5.2 gallon or 20 L pail
- 55 gallon or 250 L drum
Safety
- Flax seed oil should not irritate eyes or skin.
- Keep away from sources of ignition or open flame.
- Store in a cool, dry location in a sealed container.
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