ADVERTORIAL FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE October 2025 57 Under Oxidative Stress Condition Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a natural consequence of life. It arises within the cells of animals as a byproduct of metabolic processes, especially in the mitochondria, where energy is produced. Normally, the body has a finely tuned system to maintain a balance between ROS production and the action of antioxidants. Oxidative stress is the result of an imbalance between ROS and the body’s ability to counteract or neutralize their harmful effect with antioxidants. When stressors shift the balance, an imbalance can occur due to an overproduction of ROS or a depleted antioxidant system. WHEN STRESSORS SHIFT THE BALANCE Stressors, such as heat, pathogens, housing conditions and vaccination can induce oxidative stress in the animal’s body – a situation where the whole neighbourhood is burning. COMPROMISED ANTIOXIDANT SYSTEM Under stress, the mitochondria produces even more sparks.When too many sparks occur, the antioxidant defense system becomes overwhelmed. The fire then spreads beyond the mitochondria into other cellular areas. Once the fire escapes the mitochondria, secondary antioxidants – the firefighters, like vitamin E, polyphenols and carotenoids– try to neutralize the flames. If the oxidative stress persists, even they cannot stop the fire, leading to irreversible damage and ultimately cell death. Uncontrolled oxidative stress weakens immunity, increases disease risk, reduces performance, and ultimately compromises livestock productivity. What Factors Can Trigger Oxidative Stress Condition?
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