Application of the brown macroalga Saccharina latissima (Laminariales, Phaeophyceae) as a feed ingredient for livestock: A review

Abstract

In recent years, marine macroalgae have been recognized as potential alternative and sustainable feeding resources for livestock. Differences in nutritional values and biomass yield across macroalgal species are critical factors while aiming to utilize them as animal feed components. A brown macroalga, Saccharina latissima, also known as sugar kelp, has a promising biomass yield and high nutritional and bioactive compounds that can benefit both ruminant and monogastric animals. For example, the dietary inclusion of S. latissima in dairy and beef cattle can enhance milk yield, meat quality, and iodine content in milk and meat while reducing enteric methane emissions in vitro. However, high iodine content and the presence of some potentially toxic elements (arsenic, cadmium, etc.) lead to critical challenges, demanding careful consideration while determining the inclusion level of S. latissima in the livestock feed. To address these challenges, effective post-harvest biomass processing techniques, particularly hydrothermal treatments, have shown promise in reducing heavy metals and minerals of concern (e.g., iodine) and enhancing their safety as animal feed. It is thus essential to evaluate the sustainability of post-harvest processing techniques as they are usually energy-demanding and can negatively influence nutrient utilization in animals as certain digestible fractions can disappear during processing. Furthermore, variations in the nutritional and bioactive composition of S. latissima due to seasonal and spatial factors can create challenges for commercial exploitation. In this context, multiple harvesting of biomass and choosing the appropriate harvesting seasons can maximize the nutritional potential of S. latissima. In conclusion, S. latissima can be a novel feed ingredient for livestock, but year-round biomass availability and identifying cost-effective and energy-efficient post-harvest biomass processing methods that optimize both nutritional values and digestibility of S. latissima are critical for improving animal production, performance, and health.

Keywords: Iodine; Nutrition; Processing; Seaweed; Sugar kelp; Sustainability.