Effects of chokeberry pomace supplementation on biochemical, metabolic and antioxidant parameters in high-yielding dairy goats

Abstract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with dried black chokeberry pomace (Aronia melanocarpa) on metabolic and antioxidant parameters in high-yielding dairy goats. Material and Methods: Twenty-seven Polish White Improved goats in mid-lactation were divided into three groups: a control group and two experimental groups receiving chokeberry pomace at 15 g/kg (A1) and 30 g/kg (A2) of dry matter in the feed. Biochemical, enzymatic, mineral, and oxidative stress parameters were analysed. Results: Supplementation, particularly in group A2, improved the lipid profile by reducing low-density lipoprotein and triglycerides and increasing high-density lipoprotein levels. It also enhanced antioxidant capacity (higher glutathione and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl values) and positively influenced liver and lysosomal enzyme activity. Changes in creatinine, cholinesterase and creatine kinase levels were observed, along with correlations between calcium and metabolic markers. Conclusion: These findings suggest that chokeberry pomace may serve as a valuable feed additive in the nutrition of high-yielding dairy goats, promoting their metabolic health and potentially enhancing milk quality.