Evaluation of quality indicators of the fruits of the narrow-leaved oleaster for use in feed additives

This article explores the potential of Elaeagnus angustifolia fruits as a raw material for the production of feed additives. The study focused on Elaeagnus angustifolia fruits (pericarp and seeds) collected in the Omsk Region. The study examined the quality parameters (moisture, elemental composition, primary metabolites) and nutritional value of the pericarp and seeds. Biotesting on stylonychia was also used to assess the safety of the plant material for animals. Quality analysis revealed significant nutrient content and high levels of metabolizable energy and feed units in the seeds. Heavy metal analysis revealed that mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic levels did not exceed permissible standards, indicating the environmental safety of the raw material. The nutritional value complies with GOST R 51095 – 97 and GOST 30823 – 2002. Bioassays on Stylonychia scaly-leaved fruit revealed complete survival of microorganisms exposed to various concentrations of fruit and shell extracts for two hours, indicating their lack of toxicity. These data confirm the potential of using narrow-leaved oleaster fruit to create safe and effective feed additives with high nutritional value, contributing to a more sustainable livestock industry. The study revealed significant differences in the composition of the pericarp and seeds, enabling separate processing of the raw materials to create balanced feed additives. The study's results demonstrate the high biological value and safety of narrow-leaved oleaster fruit, which contribute to increased production efficiency. The results support the development of domestic feed additive production based on this raw material.