Prunus armeniaca (Apricot Oil) as a Multispecies Functional Feed Ingredient

1. Introduction

Apricot oil extracted from the kernels of Prunus armeniaca, is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. Traditionally, it has been valued for its emollient properties in skincare. In animal health, apricot oil is gaining attention for its ability to support skin and coat health, boost immunity, and enhance digestive efficiency across various species¹.

2. Organoleptic Properties

• Color: Pale yellow to golden
  
• Odor: Mild, slightly nutty aroma
  
• Taste: Light, slightly sweet
  
• Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and organic solvents
  
• Particle Size: Available in liquid form²
  

3. Key Bioactive Compounds

• Oleic Acid (Omega-9): Supports skin and coat health³
  
• Linoleic Acid (Omega-6): Enhances cell function and immune response³
  
• Vitamin E: Provides antioxidant benefits⁴
  
• Phytosterols: Support cardiovascular health and anti-inflammatory responses⁵
  

4. Purpose and Usage by Species

Poultry

• Benefits:
  
  • Enhances growth performance and feed conversion ratio⁶
    
  • Supports skin health and feather development⁶
    
  • Acts as a natural antioxidant⁶
    

• Research Trials:
  
  • A study on the effects of essential oils as feed additives in poultry reported improvements in weight gain and feed conversion ratios⁶.
    

Swine

• Benefits:
  
  • Supports gut health and nutrient absorption⁷
    
  • Improves skin condition and reduces inflammation⁷
    
  • Enhances overall immunity⁷
    

• Research Trials:
  
  • Research on phytochemicals as growth promoters in swine indicated positive effects on growth performance and health status⁷.
    

Ruminants

• Benefits:
  
  • Promotes rumen microbial activity⁸
    
  • Enhances energy utilization⁸
    
  • Supports skin and hoof health⁸
    

• Research Trials:
  
  • While specific studies on apricot oil in ruminants are limited, the inclusion of essential oils and phytochemicals has shown potential benefits in ruminant nutrition⁸.
    

Aquatic Animals

• Benefits:
  
  • Enhances skin and scale health⁹
    
  • Supports immune function and growth⁹
    
  • Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent⁹
    

• Research Trials:
  
  • Studies on the dietary inclusion of phytochemicals have demonstrated growth-promoting effects in aquatic species⁹.
    

Companion Animals (Dogs & Cats)

• Benefits:
  
  • Improves coat shine and skin hydration¹⁰
    
  • Aids in digestion and nutrient absorption¹⁰
    
  • Provides natural anti-inflammatory properties¹⁰
    

• Research Trials:
  
  • A study on the use of fish oil in dog diets suggests that oils rich in essential fatty acids can serve as functional ingredients for canine health¹⁰.
    

5. Standardized Botanical Forms Offered

• Crude Oil: Cold-pressed oil retaining the full spectrum of fatty acids and micronutrients¹¹
  
• Standardized Extracts: Ensures consistent levels of bioactives like oleic acid and linoleic acid¹¹
  
• Granular Formulations: For easier incorporation into pelletized feeds or feed premixes¹¹
  

6. Synergistic Phytogenic Combinations

• Coconut Oil: Enhances skin and digestive health benefits when used with apricot oil¹²
  
• Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Adds synergistic anti-inflammatory effects¹²
  
• Flaxseed Oil: Offers a balanced omega-3 to omega-6 profile, optimizing essential fatty acid ratios¹²
  

7. Nature’s Activ Differentiation

• Traceability: Sourced from premium apricot kernels with full supply chain transparency¹³
  
• Harvesting Age: Selected at peak maturity to ensure high nutrient retention¹³
  
• Standardization: Consistent fatty acid and vitamin E content for reproducible efficacy¹³
  
• Production Process: Cold-pressed and solvent-free to maintain the integrity of active compounds¹³
  

8. Conclusion

Apricot oil (Prunus armeniaca) is a versatile and functional ingredient in animal nutrition. Its rich fatty acid profile, antioxidant protection, and digestive-supporting effects make it an ideal inclusion in feed formulations for poultry, swine, ruminants, aquaculture, and companion animals. Backed by scientific rationale and practical outcomes, it represents a natural solution for improving multispecies health and performance.
For bulk supply, standardized formulations, or technical consultations, please contact the Naturesactiv Phytogenic Support Team.

References

1. WebMD. Apricot Kernel Oil – Overview and Traditional Uses.
2. ScienceDirect. Organoleptic and physicochemical properties of carrier oils.
3. USDA Database. Fatty acid composition of apricot kernel oil.
4. PubMed Central. Vitamin E: Antioxidant effects and relevance in animal health.
5. Molecules Journal. Phytosterols and their role in inflammation and cardiovascular support.
6. PubMed Central. Essential oils as feed additives in poultry: effects on growth performance.
7. PubMed Central. Phytochemicals as growth promoters in swine: mechanisms and outcomes.
8. PubMed Central. Phytochemicals in ruminant nutrition: A review of their mode of action.
9. PubMed Central. Growth and immune-modulating effects of phytochemicals in aquaculture.
10. Frontiers in Veterinary Science. Functional oils in dog nutrition: Coat health and digestion.
11. Internal Technical Data – Naturesactiv Oil Processing Methods.
12. Wiley Online Library. Synergistic effects of fatty oils in veterinary nutrition.
13. Nature’s Activ Quality Assurance Reports – Botanical Ingredient Standardization.
    

FDA Disclaimer

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This veterinary supplement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information is intended for educational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed veterinarian before introducing any new supplement into an animal’s diet.