Dietary α‐linolenic acid increases the n−3 PUFA content of sow's milk and the tissues of the suckling piglet

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Abstract
α‐Linolenic acid (18∶3n−3) is a precursor to DHA (22∶6n−3), which is essential for normal growth and development in the infant. This study was undertaken to assess how a raised 18∶3n−3 intake in sows affects the n−3 PUFA content of the suckling piglet. Sows consumed a high‐ 18∶3n−3 or control diet (n−3 PUFA/n−6 PUFA, 0.5 vs. 0.05, respectively) for 10 d prior to parturition and for 14 d postpartum. Piglets suckled from their mothers until 14 d of age, when they were sacrificed. Sows consuming the high‐18∶3n−3 diet had 141% more 18∶3n−3 and 86% more 22∶6n−3 in their milk compared to control sows. There was no difference in the proximate composition of the piglets. The n−3/n−6 PUFA ratio was 82% higher in the milk of sows consuming the high‐18∶3n−3 diet compared to controls. Piglets suckling from sows consuming the high‐18∶3n−3 die had 423% more 18∶3n−3 in the carcass as well as a 460% higher n−3/n−6 PUFA ratio than controls. The piglets suckling from sows consuming the high‐18∶3n−3 diet had 333% more 18∶3n−3 and 54% more 22∶6n−3 in the liver, as well as a 114% higher n−3/n−6 ratio than control piglets. Piglets suckling from sows consuming a high‐18∶3n−3 diet also had 24% more 22∶6n−3 and a 33% higher n−3/n−6 ratio in the brain compared to control piglets. A high 18∶3n−3 intake in the sow increases not only the 18∶3n−3 but also the 22∶6n−3 content of sow's milk and the tissues of the suckling piglet.

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