Advances in selenium supplementation: From selenium-enriched yeast to potential selenium-enriched insects, and...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Animal Nutrition
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient critical for animal and human development and physiological homeostasis.
• Understanding Se's role in the environment, plants, and animals is crucial for optimizing its use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review Se biofortification strategies using various inorganic and organic sources.
• To evaluate emerging Se sources like Se-enriched insects and Se-nanoparticles for animal nutrition.
• To provide an update on the legal framework for Se feed additives in the EU, USA, and Canada.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of Se biofortification and its sources.
• Analysis of data on Se-enriched yeast, insects, and nanoparticles.
• Examination of regulatory information on Se feed additives.

Main Results:

• Se-enriched yeast remains a primary organic Se source, while sodium selenite is a key inorganic form.
• Se-enriched insects offer an organic Se option for livestock.
• Se-nanoparticles present a potentially less toxic, more biocompatible inorganic Se source.

Conclusions:

• Se-enriched yeast and sodium selenite are established Se sources.
• Se-enriched insects and Se-nanoparticles are promising alternatives with potential for high bioavailability and reduced environmental impact.
• Further research into novel Se sources is essential for sustainable animal nutrition.