Application of Rose Hip Fruits as Feed Supplement in Animal Nutrition

Abstract

Rose hip (Rosa canina) fruits have been used in herbal remedies since ancient times. They are rich in a number of biologically active substances such as vitamins C, B1, B2, PP, K, vitamin E (in seeds), carotene (provitamin A), lycopene, pectin, flavonoids (campferol, quercetin, rutin), potassium, calcium, phosphorus salts. Rose hip seeds oil and residues are of special interest because of high content of linolenic acid. The aim of the current review was to describe the composition and properties of rosehip fruits and the effects of their supplementation to the feed of livestock animals, such as cattle, poultry and swine. Studies in animals prove positive effect in relation to both animal health and productivity in terms of quality and quantity, in cattle (milk and beef), pigs (pork yield and reproductive performance) and poultry (productive performance, egg quality).