Oxidative stress is a condition that involves an imbalance of prooxidants and antioxidants, abnormally high levels of free radicals, and a decline in antioxidant defence mechanisms. Flavonoids are important feed additives, and are a group of naturally occurring polyphenols in plants that exhibit a broad variety of biological effects and have potential applications in animal feed. Ginkgo leaves are rich in flavonoids and have a strong antioxidant capacity, which can eliminate free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress reactions in animals. However, the application of ginkgo leaf extract in weaned rabbits has rarely been reported. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of ginkgo leaf extract on the growth performance, nutrient utilization, blood biochemical parameters, meat quality, and fatty acid profiles of weaned rabbits. Our observations indicated that the inclusion of flavonoid-rich ginkgo leaf extract in weaned rabbit diets improved growth performance, nutrient utilization, meat quality, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations, and antioxidant activity. Our research provides support for the application of flavonoid extracts as feed additives in rabbit farming.

Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.