Oil
Oils are energy-rich and bind dust. In addition to saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, they also contain valuable vitamins, minerals and essential oils. High-quality vegetable oils, such as linseed oil, provide a high proportion of essential, polyunsaturated fatty acids. These include the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These are important for brain development, vascular functions, lowering blood lipid levels and many other functions.
Mixed into a grain-free muesli, oils are an excellent alternative source of energy to grain. They also bind dust in the feed as an alternative to molasses.
Oils with a high content of unsaturated fatty acids oxidise quickly on contact with air, meaning they can turn rancid (especially when stored in warm conditions). This is why they require, for example, vitamin E as an antioxidant to protect against rancidity.
See: Antioxidants, Linseed oil, Fat