Variable temperature animal feed as well as preparation method and application thereof

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of feeds, and particularly relates to a variable temperature animal feed as well as a preparation method and application thereof. The variable temperature animal feed comprises a core body and a shell layer arranged on the surface of the core body, the core body comprises sodium alginate, a protein base material, a phagostimulant A and a fermentation product synergist; the shell layer is prepared from the following raw materials: sodium alginate and calcium lactate; the shell layer comprises a phagostimulant B; the phagostimulant A comprises an insect-derived phagostimulant, an animal-derived phagostimulant and a plant-derived phagostimulant; the phagostimulant B comprises freeze-dried powder containing fructose and insect zymolyte. Through the synergistic effect of the insect-derived phagostimulant, the animal-derived phagostimulant and the plant-derived phagostimulant and the delicate flavor synergistic effect of the fermentation product synergist and the insect-derived phagostimulant in the phagostimulant A, and in combination with a preparation process of a low-temperature and irradiation sterilization technology, the variable-temperature animal feed has good phagostimulant and nutrient substance retention rate; and safety is realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of feeds, and particularly relates to a feed for poikilothermic animals, a preparation method thereof, and an application thereof. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the improvement of people's living standards, the pet industry with poikilothermic animals (including animal groups with relatively weak thermoregulatory abilities such as fish, reptiles, and amphibians) as the breeding objects has developed vigorously. From ornamental fish (such as arowana, tiger fish, and thunder dragon), amphibians (such as horned frogs and axolotls) to reptiles (such as geckos, lizards, and corn snakes), these pets have become an important part of the pet market by virtue of their unique ecological habits, low space requirements, and diverse ornamental values. The corresponding pet feeds need to adapt to the dietary differences of different groups - fish rely on plankton, algae, or small aquatic animals, amphibians mostly prey on insects or small fish and shrimps, and reptiles cover insectivorous, herbivorous, and carnivorous (including fish and rodents), etc., posing diverse requirements for the nutritional composition, palatability, physical form, and safety of the feeds.

[0003] Although the current pet feeds on the market have formed a diversified product system, including expanded feeds for fish, insect feeds, fruit puree feeds, paste feeds, etc. for amphibians and reptiles, there are still many problems in terms of the nutritional composition, feeding convenience, palatability, physical form, and safety of the feeds.

[0004] Insect feeds include live insects, fresh-keeping insects, and freeze-dried insects. Although live insects have high palatability and can trigger natural predation behaviors, they require breeding space and breeding experience, are prone to escape or death during the breeding process, and have the risks of carrying parasites and a short storage period (≤7 days). Fresh-keeping insects have a long shelf life of up to 12 months and are portable, but the added preservatives may affect the health of pets, and they need to be refrigerated at 4°C and are prone to mildew after opening, with a shelf life of ≤1 month. Freeze-dried insects can retain some active odors, but freeze-drying consumes a large amount of energy, has a high processing cost, has a loose texture after rehydration, and due to the loss of volatile substances, the palatability is reduced. Fruit puree / paste feeds are convenient to feed and nutritionally balanced, but traditional sterilization processes, such as pasteurization, require high-temperature treatment, resulting in the degradation of heat-sensitive components and being unable to completely kill heat-resistant spores; in addition, the mud-like and paste-like foods do not allow pets to have chewing feedback, and the surface is sticky, which is likely to cause adhesion of the pet's mouth and nasal cavity, causing discomfort, and at the same time, the palatability fragrance depends on artificial flavors, with poor palatability. Expanded feeds, although stable in storage and low in cost, have a high hardness, are easy to damage the oral mucosa, are loose and fragile after rehydration, cannot simulate the structure of insects with a hard outer layer and a soft inner layer, and due to the destruction of flavor substances by high temperature, the palatability is poor.

[0005] Therefore, it is of great significance to develop a feed for poikilothermic animals with good palatability, high retention rate of nutritional components, and safety. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims to solve one or more technical problems existing in the above-mentioned prior art, and at least provides a beneficial option. Specifically, the present invention provides a feed for poikilothermic animals, which has good palatability, can improve the feeding rate of pets, shorten the response attack time, and has a high retention rate of nutritional components and is safe.

[0007] The inventive concept of the present invention: The feed for poikilothermic animals of the present invention has a core body and a shell layer provided on the surface of the core body; the core body includes sodium alginate, protein base material, attractant A, and fermentation product synergist; the preparation raw materials of the shell layer include sodium alginate and calcium lactate; the shell layer includes attractant B; the attractant A includes insect-derived attractant, animal-derived attractant, and plant-derived attractant; the attractant B includes freeze-dried powder containing fructose and insect hydrolysate.

[0008] Sodium alginate and calcium lactate undergo a cross-linking reaction to form a surface gel layer with a hardness of 1.5 - 2.0 N, which is equivalent to forming an anti-deformation structure similar to the exoskeleton of insects, and can effectively prevent feed debris from entering the respiratory tract during the pet's feeding process, greatly reducing the risk of asphyxiation, providing a solid guarantee for the health of pets, and the hydrophilic migration characteristics of calcium lactate during the gelation process can carry attractant B to diffuse directionally to the gel surface layer, forming a "flavor layer" rich in attractant factors, greatly enhancing the dual stimulation of the pet's sense of smell and taste, significantly improving the feeding induction efficiency. At the same time, the protein base material, attractant A, and fermentation product synergist form a core structure with a hardness ≤ 0.3 N. The unique "hard outside and soft inside" structure highly simulates the characteristics of the hard exoskeleton and soft interior of natural foods such as insects, providing a more natural predation taste experience for pets and improving palatability.

[0009] At the same time, the natural flavor substances released by the endogenous base material formed by the synergistic action of insect-derived attractant, animal-derived attractant, and plant-derived attractant and the attractant B carried by the exogenous calcium source form a gradient flavor field, which not only quickly stimulates the olfactory receptors on the surface, but also continuously releases flavor substances through the core to extend the taste stimulation, solves the deficiency of the single flavor release mode of traditional feeds, improves palatability, and is rich in nutrition. In addition, the fermentation product synergist and the insect-derived attractant in attractant A can form a umami synergistic effect, enhance the pet's feeding motivation, improve the feeding rate, and have a good palatability effect.

[0010] Therefore, a first aspect of the present invention provides a feed for poikilothermic animals.

[0011] Specifically, the feed for poikilothermic animals has a core body and a shell layer provided on the surface of the core body;

[0012] The core includes sodium alginate, protein base material, attractant A, and fermentation product synergist;

[0013] The raw materials for preparing the shell layer include sodium alginate and calcium lactate; the shell layer includes attractant B;

[0014] The attractant A includes insect-derived attractant, animal-derived attractant, and plant-derived attractant;

[0015] The attractant B includes freeze-dried powder containing fructose and insect hydrolysate.

[0016] Preferably, the insect-derived attractant includes at least one of cricket hydrolysate, yellow mealworm hydrolysate, and insect oil extract.

[0017] Preferably, the insect oil extract includes at least one of yellow mealworm oil, black soldier fly oil, and silkworm pupa oil.

[0018] Preferably, the animal-derived attractant includes at least one of chicken liver powder, hydrolyzed fish protein, and fish liver oil hydrolysate.

[0019] Preferably, the plant-derived attractant includes at least one of apple puree and carrot extract.

[0020] Specifically, the insect-derived attractant can provide the umami substance monosodium glutamate, the animal-derived attractant can provide the fishy smell substance trimethylamine, and the plant-derived apple puree provides the fruity smell substance ethyl acetate. The three form a flavor synergistic effect, which can shorten the attack response time of pets to food, improve the feeding rate, and thus improve the attractiveness.

[0021] Preferably, in the attractant A, the mass ratio of the insect-derived attractant, animal-derived attractant, and plant-derived attractant is 1:(0.55 - 16.5):(0.35 - 4.5).

[0022] More preferably, in the attractant A, the mass ratio of the insect-derived attractant, animal-derived attractant, and plant-derived attractant is 1:(0.6 - 15):(0.4 - 4).

[0023] Preferably, the freeze-dried powder containing fructose includes at least one of honey freeze-dried powder and fruit freeze-dried powder.

[0024] Preferably, the fruit freeze-dried powder includes at least one of banana freeze-dried powder, strawberry freeze-dried powder, and blueberry freeze-dried powder.

[0025] Preferably, the insect hydrolysate includes at least one of cricket hydrolysate, yellow mealworm hydrolysate, black soldier fly hydrolysate, and silkworm pupa hydrolysate.

[0026] Specifically, the insect hydrolysate in attractant B contains ≥5% free amino acids, forming a sweet and fresh compound flavor with the honey fructose in the freeze-dried honey powder, and being a natural ingredient. The addition of the natural attractant can greatly enhance the attractiveness of the feed to pets, stimulate their feeding desire, and improve the palatability of the feed.

[0027] Preferably, in attractant B, the mass ratio of the freeze-dried powder containing fructose to the insect hydrolysate is 1:(0.6 - 1.5); more preferably, in attractant B, the mass ratio of the freeze-dried powder containing fructose to the insect hydrolysate is 1:(0.8 - 1.2); even more preferably, in attractant B, the mass ratio of the freeze-dried powder containing fructose to the insect hydrolysate is 1:1 or 1:1.5.

[0028] Preferably, the protein base material includes at least one of fish meal, shrimp meal, insect powder, blood meal, and spirulina powder.

[0029] Specifically, the protein base material provides a high-quality protein source for pets to meet their energy requirements for growth and daily activities.

[0030] Preferably, the fermentation product synergist includes at least one of yeast extract and lactic acid fermentation product.

[0031] Preferably, the core also includes a plasticizer, an additive, and a solvent.

[0032] Preferably, the plasticizer includes at least one of glycerol and sorbitol.

[0033] Specifically, during the preparation of the poikilotherm feed, the plasticizer can be used to improve the flexibility and plasticity of the paste, enabling the paste to be smoothly formed when extruded through different nozzles. Sorbitol also acts as a humectant to prevent the paste from hardening during storage.

[0034] Preferably, the additive includes at least one of vitamins and minerals; more preferably, the additive includes vitamins and minerals to ensure that pets ingest comprehensive and balanced nutrition.

[0035] Preferably, attractant B accounts for 0.45 - 2.2% of the total mass of calcium lactate and attractant B; more preferably, attractant B accounts for 0.5 - 2.0% of the total mass of calcium lactate and attractant B.

[0036] The second aspect of the present invention provides a preparation method of the poikilotherm feed described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0037] Specifically, the preparation method of the poikilotherm feed includes the following steps:

[0038] Mix sodium alginate, protein base material, attractant A, fermentation product synergist, and solvent, then fill, sterilize, and extrude to obtain a paste;

[0039] Mix calcium lactate, attractant B, and solvent to obtain a mixed solution;

[0040] Immerse the paste in the mixed solution for gelation to prepare the poikilotherm feed;

[0041] The sterilization is carried out by irradiation sterilization.

[0042] Preferably, after mixing, vacuum degassing is carried out first to remove the air mixed into the paste during the stirring process, avoiding affecting the quality of the paste due to the presence of air bubbles during subsequent processing or storage.

[0043] The degassed paste is filled into a hose, and a nozzle of a suitable specification is selected according to the size of the pet and installed on the hose containing the paste. Due to nozzles of different specifications, the paste can be extruded into different shapes to meet the feeding needs of different pets.

[0044] The method of irradiation sterilization can ensure the safety of the feed while maximizing the retention of heat-sensitive nutrients such as crude protein and crude fat, providing better nutritional protection for pets. In addition, irradiation sterilization has higher reliability in microbial control, and the sterilized paste can be stored at room temperature, which is convenient for users to store for a long time and use at any time.

[0045] Preferably, by mass percentage, the amounts of the raw materials for preparing the paste are 1.3 - 5.5% of sodium alginate, 22 - 65% of protein base material, 0.9 - 4.5% of attractant A, and 0.1 - 0.9% of fermentation product synergist.

[0046] More preferably, by mass percentage, the amounts of the raw materials for preparing the paste are 1.5 - 5% of sodium alginate, 25 - 60% of protein base material, 1 - 4% of attractant A, and 0.1 - 0.8% of fermentation product synergist.

[0047] Preferably, the preparation process of the paste further includes adding additives, plasticizers, and solvents for mixing.

[0048] Preferably, by mass percentage, the amounts of the raw materials for preparing the paste are 1.3 - 5.5% of sodium alginate, 22 - 65% of protein base material, 0.9 - 4.5% of attractant A, 0.1 - 0.9% of fermentation product synergist, 0.1 - 3.3% of additives, 0.9 - 9% of plasticizers, and 11.8 - 74.7% of solvents.

[0049] Further preferably, by mass percentage, the amounts of the raw materials for preparing the paste are as follows: sodium alginate 1.5 - 5%, protein base material 25 - 60%, attractant A 1 - 4%, fermentation product synergist 0.1 - 0.8%, additive 0.1 - 3%, plasticizer 1 - 8%, and solvent 19.2 - 71.3%.

[0050] Preferably, the solvent in the paste includes water.

[0051] Preferably, in the preparation process of the mixed solution, the mass ratio of the total mass of calcium lactate and attractant B to the amount of the solvent is 1 g : (9 - 22) mL; further preferably, the mass ratio of the total mass of calcium lactate and attractant B to the amount of the solvent is 1 g : (10 - 20) mL. A reasonable dosage ratio can ensure the smooth progress of the cross - linking reaction between calcium lactate and sodium alginate and the quality stability of the gel feed.

[0052] Preferably, the solvent in the mixed solution includes water.

[0053] The third aspect of the present invention provides an application of the poikilotherm feed described in the first aspect of the present invention in the field of pet feeding.

[0054] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the technical solution provided by the present invention are as follows:

[0055] (1) In the present invention, a cross - linking reaction between sodium alginate and calcium lactate forms a surface gel layer with a hardness of 1.5 - 2.0 N. At the same time, the protein base material, attractant A, and fermentation product synergist form a core structure with a hardness ≤ 0.3 N. The unique "hard outside and soft inside" structure highly simulates the characteristics of natural foods such as insects, where the exoskeleton is hard and the inside is soft, providing a more natural predation taste experience for pets. At the same time, the surface gel layer is similar to the anti - deformation structure of the insect exoskeleton, which can effectively prevent feed debris from entering the respiratory tract during pet feeding, greatly reducing the risk of asphyxiation and providing a solid guarantee for the health of pets.

[0056] (2) Through the dual feeding attractant system design of feeding attractant A and feeding attractant B and the coupling technology of feeding attractant - calcium source, the present invention has achieved a significant improvement in the feeding attraction effect of the feed. Feeding attractant B forms a "flavor layer" rich in feeding factors on the gel surface, greatly enhancing the dual stimulation of the pet's sense of smell and taste, and significantly improving the feeding induction efficiency. The natural flavor substances released by the endogenous base formed by the synergistic action of insect - derived feeding attractants, animal - derived feeding attractants, and plant - derived feeding attractants and the feeding attractant B carried by the exogenous calcium source form a gradient flavor field, which not only rapidly stimulates the olfactory receptors on the surface but also continuously releases flavor substances from the core to prolong the taste stimulation, solving the deficiency of the single - flavor release mode of traditional feeds, improving the feeding efficiency, and being rich in nutrition. In addition, the fermentation product synergist and the insect - derived feeding attractant in feeding attractant A can form a umami synergistic effect, enhancing the pet's feeding motivation, improving the feeding efficiency, and having a good feeding attraction effect.

[0057] (3) The combination of the low - temperature preparation process and the irradiation sterilization technology of the present invention minimizes the damage to nutritional components. The protein denaturation rate is strictly controlled within <5%, and the retention rate of vitamin B2 is as high as >95%, ensuring that pets can ingest comprehensive, balanced, and highly active nutrients to meet their growth, development, and daily activity needs.

[0058] (4) The feed after irradiation sterilization has good storage stability at room temperature, and the shelf life can reach more than 12 months. At the same time, the hose packaging effectively isolates the intrusion of external air, moisture, and microorganisms, further extending the shelf life of the product and reducing the risk of feed deterioration and nutrient loss.

[0059] (5) The operation of the present invention is simple. It only takes less than 10 minutes from the extrusion of the paste to the completion of gelation, without the need for complex equipment and professional skills. Whether it is a pet breeding enterprise or a family pet owner, they can easily master it, meeting the usage requirements in different scenarios, especially suitable for daily home feeding. In addition, different specifications and shapes of nozzles (such as mouse - like, worm - like, etc.) can be selected according to the pet species to precisely control the size of the extruded paste and adapt to pets of different body sizes. At the same time, by adjusting the concentration of the calcium lactate solution and the soaking time, the thickness of the gel layer can be independently regulated, and the size of the shaping paste and the gel parameters can be adjusted to meet the needs of different growth stages. Description of the Drawings

[0060] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the preparation process of the poikilotherm feed in Example 1 of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 2 It is a graph of the feeding rate results of the poikilotherm feed in Example 1 and Comparative Examples 1 - 3 by corn snakes;

[0062] Figure 3The figure shows the attack response time results of corn snakes to the poikilotherm feeds in Example 1 and Comparative Examples 1-3;

[0063] Figure 4 The figure shows the influence results of different sterilization methods on crude protein and crude fat;

[0064] Figure 5 The figure shows the influence results of different sterilization methods on vitamin B2 and vitamin C. Detailed implementation manners

[0065] To make the technical solutions of the present invention clearer and more understandable to those skilled in the art, the following examples are listed for illustration. It should be noted that the following examples do not limit the protection scope required by the present invention.

[0066] In the following examples, the raw materials, reagents or devices used can be obtained from conventional commercial channels or can be obtained by existing known methods without special instructions.

[0067] In Examples 1-3, the vitamin premix consists of the following substances: vitamin A: 25000 IU / kg, D-biotin: 0.3 mg / kg, calcium D-pantothenate: 30 mg / kg, choline chloride: 2000 mg / kg, vitamin D3: 5500 IU / kg, folic acid: 3 mg / kg, α-tocopherol: 330 mg / kg, vitamin K3: 3 mg / kg, vitamin B1: 30 mg / kg, vitamin B2: 30 mg / kg, vitamin B6: 30 mg / kg, vitamin B12: 0.055 mg / kg, niacin: 60 mg / kg, inositol: 300 mg / kg.

[0068] In Examples 1-3, the mineral premix consists of the following substances: ferrous glycine complex: 125 mg / kg, zinc amino acid complex: 100 mg / kg, manganese methionine complex: 60 mg / kg, copper glycine complex: 30 mg / kg, calcium iodate: 1.1 mg / kg, cobalt chloride: 0.55 mg / kg, sodium selenite: 0.3 mg / kg, magnesium sulfate: 600 mg / kg, potassium chloride: 1250 mg / kg.

[0069] Example 1

[0070] A preparation method of a poikilotherm feed for pet snakes, comprising the following steps:

[0071] (1) Preparation of paste

[0072] S1: Weigh 0.35 kg of sodium alginate and 0.5 kg of sorbitol and dry mix them, add 4.65 L of purified water at 45°C, and stir magnetically at 300 rpm for 1 hour until they are completely dissolved and the solution is transparent without visible particles. Then, add 2.5 kg of spray-dried pig blood powder, 1.4 kg of fish meal, 0.06 kg of vitamin premix, 0.06 kg of mineral premix, 0.2 kg of chicken liver powder, 0.1 kg of hydrolyzed fish protein, 0.08 kg of applesauce, 0.02 kg of cricket hydrolysate, 0.05 kg of yeast extract, and 0.03 kg of lactic acid fermentation product, and transfer to a high-speed homogenizer for homogenization for 15 minutes to obtain a mixed paste;

[0073] S2: The mixed paste was transferred to a vacuum degassing tank for vacuum degassing at a vacuum degree of -0.09 MPa for 35 minutes until no bubbles were precipitated; the mixture was filled into a soft tube with a diameter of 30 mm and a capacity of 200 mL, and then heat-sealed at a temperature of 180°C, a pressure of 0.3 MPa, and a time of 2 seconds. Finally, the mixture was sterilized by irradiation with cobalt-60 gamma rays at a dose of 4.0 kGy, a dose uniformity (DUR) ≤ 1.4, and an ambient temperature of 25 ± 2°C. After irradiation, the mixture was cooled to room temperature and then stored away from light to obtain a radiation-sterilized paste;

[0074] (2) Preparation of calcium lactate mixed solution

[0075] Weigh 9.8 kg of calcium lactate, 0.1 kg of lyophilized honey powder, and 0.1 kg of black soldier fly enzymatic hydrolysate. First, transfer the lyophilized honey powder and black soldier fly enzymatic hydrolysate to a mixer and mix at 30 rpm for 15 minutes. Then, add calcium lactate and continue mixing for 20 minutes. Pass the mixture through an 80-mesh sieve to obtain a mixed powder. Take 10 g of the mixed powder, add 200 mL of purified water at 25°C, and stir for about 2 minutes until transparent and the pH is 6.8±0.2 to obtain a calcium lactate mixed solution.

[0076] (3) Surface gelation

[0077] A cylindrical nozzle with a diameter of 10 mm × 20 mm (10 mm in diameter and 20 mm in length) is selected to simulate the body shape of snake prey (such as suckling mice). The nozzle is screwed tightly onto the hose opening, and the radiation-sterilized paste in the hose is vertically suspended and squeezed into the 5% calcium lactate mixed solution obtained in step (2). The paste is allowed to stand for 4 minutes. The paste is immersed in the calcium lactate mixed solution and gelled, and is freely formed into a cold-blooded animal feed for pet snakes that simulates suckling mice and can be directly picked up and fed.

[0078] Example 1 Schematic diagram of the preparation process of temperature-variable animal feed Figure 1 shown.

[0079] Example 2

[0080] A method for preparing a feed for poikilothermic animals for geckos, comprising the following steps:

[0081] (1) Preparation of paste

[0082] S1: Weigh 0.3 kg of sodium alginate and 0.4 kg of glycerol and mix them dry. Add 4.7 L of pure water at 45 °C and stir magnetically at a speed of 300 rpm for 1 hour until completely dissolved. The solution is transparent and has no visible particles to the naked eye. Then add 3 kg of cricket powder, 1.2 kg of yellow mealworm powder, 0.08 kg of vitamin premix, 0.08 kg of mineral premix, 0.05 kg of chicken liver powder, 0.03 kg of apple puree, 0.08 kg of black soldier fly enzymolysate, 0.03 kg of yeast extract, and 0.05 kg of lactic acid fermentation product, and transfer them to a high-speed homogenizer for homogenization treatment for 15 minutes to obtain a mixed paste;

[0083] S2: Transfer the mixed paste obtained in step S1 to a vacuum degassing tank for vacuum degassing. The vacuum degree is -0.08 MPa, and vacuum degassing is carried out for 30 minutes until no bubbles are precipitated; then fill it into a hose with a diameter of 30 mm and a capacity of 200 mL, and perform heat sealing. The heat sealing temperature is 180 °C, the pressure is 0.3 MPa, and the time is 2 seconds; finally, sterilize it by cobalt-60 γ-ray irradiation. The irradiation dose is 10 kGy, the dose uniformity (DUR) ≤ 1.5, the ambient temperature is 25 ± 2 °C, and after irradiation, it is first cooled to room temperature and then stored in the dark to obtain the paste after radiation sterilization;

[0084] (2) Preparation of calcium lactate mixed solution

[0085] Weigh 9.9 kg of calcium lactate, 0.05 kg of freeze-dried honey, and 0.05 kg of cricket enzymolysate. First, transfer the freeze-dried honey and black soldier fly enzymolysate to a mixer and mix them at a speed of 30 rpm for 15 minutes, then add calcium lactate and continue to mix for 20 minutes, and pass through an 80-mesh sieve to obtain a mixed powder; take 15 g of the mixed powder, add 300 mL of pure water at 25 °C, stir for about 2 minutes until transparent, and the pH is 6.8 ± 0.2 to obtain a calcium lactate mixed solution;

[0086] (3) Surface gelation

[0087] Select a cylindrical nozzle with an opening diameter of 5 mm × 10 mm (diameter 5 mm, length 10 mm) to simulate the shape of a worm. Screw the nozzle tightly to the hose opening, and vertically suspend and extrude the paste after radiation sterilization in the hose into the 5% calcium lactate mixed solution obtained in step (2), and let it stand for 3 minutes. The paste is immersed in calcium in the calcium lactate mixed solution and gelates, and freely forms a feed for poikilothermic animals for geckos imitating the shape of a worm, which can be directly picked up and fed.

[0088] Example 3

[0089] A method for preparing a feed for poikilotherms for horned frogs, comprising the following steps:

[0090] (1) Preparation of paste

[0091] S1: Weigh 0.4 kg of sodium alginate and 0.5 kg of glycerol, mix them dry, add 4.1 L of pure water at 45 °C, and stir magnetically at a speed of 600 rpm for 1 hour until completely dissolved without visible particles to the naked eye; then add 3.6 kg of fish meal, 1 kg of Antarctic krill powder, 0.05 kg of spirulina powder, 0.05 kg of vitamin premix, 0.05 kg of mineral premix, 0.1 kg of cod liver oil hydrolysate, 0.05 kg of hydrolyzed fish protein, 0.05 kg of carrot extract, 0.03 kg of yellow mealworm hydrolysate, 0.01 kg of yeast extract, and 0.01 kg of lactic acid fermentation product, transfer to a high-speed homogenizer for homogenization treatment for 15 minutes to obtain a mixed paste;

[0092] S2: Transfer the mixed paste to a vacuum degassing tank for vacuum degassing. The vacuum degree of vacuum degassing is -0.09 MPa, and the time is 35 minutes until no bubbles are evolved. Then fill it into a hose with a diameter of 30 mm and a capacity of 200 mL, heat seal it. The temperature of heat sealing is 180 °C, the pressure of heat sealing is 0.3 MPa, and the time of heat sealing is 2 seconds; finally, irradiate and sterilize it with cobalt-60 γ-rays, the irradiation dose is 3.5 kGy, the dose uniformity (DUR) ≤ 1.4, the ambient temperature is 25 ± 2 °C. After irradiation, cool it to room temperature first and then store it in the dark to obtain the paste after radiation sterilization;

[0093] (2) Preparation of calcium lactate mixed solution

[0094] Weigh 9.95 kg of calcium lactate, 0.02 kg of freeze-dried honey, and 0.03 kg of yellow mealworm hydrolysate. First, transfer the freeze-dried honey and yellow mealworm hydrolysate to a mixer and mix at a speed of 30 rpm for 15 minutes, then add calcium lactate and continue to mix for 20 minutes, and pass through an 80-mesh sieve to obtain a mixed powder; take 20 g of the mixed powder, add it to 300 mL of pure water at 25 °C, stir for about 2 minutes until transparent, with a pH of 7.0 ± 0.2, to obtain a calcium lactate mixed solution;

[0095] (3) Surface gelation operation

[0096] Select a cylindrical nozzle with a caliber of 5 mm × 15 mm (diameter 5 mm, length 15 mm), which is adapted to the oral cavity size of horned frogs with a body length of 8 - 12 cm. Screw the nozzle tightly to the hose opening, and vertically suspend and squeeze the paste after radiation sterilization in the hose into the 6% calcium lactate solution obtained in step (2), and let it stand for 5 minutes. The paste undergoes calcium gelation in the calcium lactate mixed solution and freely forms into a feed for poikilotherms for horned frogs, which can be directly picked up and fed.

[0097] Comparative example 1

[0098] The only difference between Comparative Example 1 and Example 1 is that in Comparative Example 1, the animal-derived attractant is used to replace the insect-derived attractant in equal amount, that is, 0.02 kg of chicken liver powder is used to replace the cricket hydrolysate in equal amount, and the others are the same as in Example 1.

[0099] Comparative Example 2

[0100] The only difference between Comparative Example 2 and Example 1 is that in Comparative Example 2, the insect-derived attractant is used to replace the animal-derived attractant in equal amount, that is, 0.3 kg of cricket hydrolysate is used to replace the animal-derived attractant in equal amount, and the others are the same as in Example 1.

[0101] Comparative Example 3

[0102] The only difference between Comparative Example 3 and Example 1 is that in Comparative Example 3, the animal-derived attractant is used to replace the plant-derived attractant in equal amount, that is, 0.08 kg of chicken liver powder is used to replace the apple puree in equal amount, and the others are the same as in Example 1.

[0103] Comparative Example 4

[0104] The only difference between Comparative Example 4 and Example 2 is that in Comparative Example 4, 0.08 kg of maltose is used to replace the fermentation product synergist (0.03 kg of yeast extract, 0.05 kg of lactic acid fermentation product), that is, the fermentation product synergist is not contained, and the others are the same as in Example 2.

[0105] Comparative Example 5

[0106] The only difference between Comparative Example 5 and Example 1 is that in Comparative Example 5, the sterilization method is pasteurization, and the pasteurization is that the filled hose is heated in a water bath at 63 °C for 30 minutes, and the others are the same as in Example 1.

[0107] Performance test

[0108] 1. Feeding rate test

[0109] Test the feeding rate of corn snakes on the cold-blooded animal feed prepared in Example 1 and Comparative Examples 1-3. The specific process is as follows:

[0110] Select 40 corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) of the same variety, the same age, in good health and similar body size, and randomly divide them into 4 groups, with 10 snakes in each group; place each group of snakes in an independent breeding box, control the environmental temperature at 28-30 °C, maintain the humidity at 60-70%, and provide suitable hiding places and clean drinking water;

[0111] Before the experiment began, the snakes were allowed to acclimatize in their respective rearing environments for 7 days, during which they were fed normally once to ensure that the snakes were adapted to the environment and had normal appetites. At the start of the experiment, they were fed once every 5 days, with a total of 10 feedings. The feeding time was fixed at 10:00 am each day. The corresponding poikilothermic animal feed (Example 1, Comparative Example 1, Comparative Example 2, Comparative Example 3) was placed into each rearing box, and the feeding amount was determined according to the snake's body size, with each snake's feed amount being approximately 10% of its body weight. After the feed was placed, the snakes were observed for 30 minutes, and it was recorded whether each snake ate. If the snake bit and swallowed the feed, it was recorded as eating; if it only smelled, touched but did not swallow, it was recorded as not eating. Then, the feeding rate was calculated. The feeding rate was calculated according to the following formula:

[0112] Feeding rate = (total number of eating times in each group / (number of snakes in each group × number of experimental days)) × 100%.

[0113] The feeding rate results of corn snakes for the poikilothermic animal feed in Example 1 and Comparative Examples 1 - 3 are as Figure 2 shown.

[0114] As Figure 2 can be seen, through the synergistic effect of insect, animal, and plant-derived feeding attractants in Example 1, the highest feeding rate was achieved, with an average value of 96%. In Comparative Example 1, the animal-derived feeding attractant was used to replace the insect-derived feeding attractant in equal amounts, resulting in a sharp increase in fishy substances and a feeding refusal reflex, with the feeding rate dropping to 86% and significant fluctuations. In Comparative Example 2, the insect-derived feeding attractant was used to replace the animal-derived feeding attractant in equal amounts. Although the umami of the insects increased, there was a lack of fishy smell buffering, with the average feeding rate being 88% and taste fatigue occurring. In Comparative Example 3, the animal-derived feeding attractant was used to replace the plant-derived feeding attractant in equal amounts, completely losing the regulation of fruity aroma, and the feeding rate was the lowest, at 81%. Analysis of variance showed significant differences among the groups (p < 0.05), indicating that the ternary system of insect-derived feeding attractants providing core umami, animal-derived feeding attractants triggering the predation instinct, and plant-derived feeding attractants regulating flavor balance is irreplaceable. The combined action of the three can effectively increase the feeding rate, and the absence of any component leads to a significant decrease in the feeding rate.

[0115] 2. Measurement of the attack response time

[0116] When testing the attack response time of corn snakes to the poikilothermic animal feed prepared in Example 1 and Comparative Examples 1 - 3 during feeding, the specific process is as follows:

[0117] A high-definition camera was used and placed in a position where the snake and the feed could be clearly photographed to record the entire experimental process. The grouping of the corn snakes and the poikilothermic animal feed were the same as those in the above measurement of the feeding rate. Timing started when the feed entered the rearing box. Through video playback observation, the time when the corn snake made the first attack action (such as suddenly raising its head and opening its mouth to bite the feed) was recorded, accurate to 0.1 second. If the snake did not make an attack action within 30 minutes, it was recorded as no response.

[0118] The attack response time is calculated according to the following formula:

[0119] Attack response time = (sum of the attack response times of each corn snake in the group) / number of corn snakes in each group.

[0120] The attack response times of corn snakes to the poikilotherm feed in Example 1 and Comparative Examples 1-3 are as Figure 3 shown.

[0121] From Figure 3 it can be seen that the attack response time in Example 1 is the shortest, with an average value of 1.54 s. This indicates that under the synergistic effect of insect, animal, and plant-derived feeding attractants, the poikilotherm feed has a strong attraction to corn snakes and can quickly stimulate the attack behavior of corn snakes. The reason may be that this synergistic effect makes the feed closer to the characteristics of the natural prey of corn snakes in terms of flavor, texture, etc., thus triggering the predation instinct of corn snakes and enabling them to make an attack response in a shorter time.

[0122] In Comparative Example 1, the insect-derived feeding attractant was replaced with an equal amount of animal-derived feeding attractant, and the average attack response time was 3.27 s, which was significantly higher than that in Example 1. This may be because after replacing the insect-derived feeding attractant with an animal-derived feeding attractant, the flavor of the feed changed, and there may be relatively too many fishy substances, resulting in a decrease in the recognition and acceptance of the feed by corn snakes, so that they need more time to make an attack response or are more cautious when making an attack decision.

[0123] In Comparative Example 2, the animal-derived feeding attractant was replaced with an equal amount of insect-derived feeding attractant, and the average attack response time was 2.58 s, which was also significantly higher than that in Example 1. Although the increase in the insect-derived feeding attractant enhanced some flavor components, the reduction in the animal-derived components may have changed the balance of the overall flavor and texture of the feed, and did not achieve the effect of being as close to the natural prey as in Example 1, resulting in an extended attack response time of corn snakes.

[0124] In Comparative Example 3, the plant-derived feeding attractant was replaced with an equal amount of animal-derived feeding attractant, and the attack response time was the longest, with an average value of 4.27 s. This may be because after the lack of the plant-derived feeding attractant, the flavor of the feed became monotonous, unable to effectively stimulate the olfactory and taste receptors of corn snakes, reducing their interest in the feed, resulting in corn snakes needing a longer time to make an attack response, and even possibly being confused or uncomfortable with the feed.

[0125] In summary, insect, animal, and plant-derived feeding attractants have a synergistic effect. The complete ternary feeding attractant system of insect, animal, and plant-derived feeding attractants can significantly shorten the attack response time. The lack of any type of feeding attractant will lead to an extension of the attack response time, and the absence of the plant-derived feeding attractant has the most obvious impact.

[0126] That is, the poikilotherm feed of Example 1 of the present invention can improve the feeding rate of corn snakes, shorten the attack response time, and has good palatability.

[0127] 3. Test on the umami synergistic effect of the fermentation product synergist and the insect hydrolysate

[0128] The following experimental process was used to verify the umami synergistic effect of the fermentation product synergist and the insect hydrolysate. The specific process is as follows:

[0129] Twenty leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) of the same variety, the same age, in good health and similar body sizes were selected and randomly divided into 2 groups, with 10 geckos in each group and a body weight of 30 - 40 g. Each gecko was placed in an independent breeding box, the environmental temperature was controlled at 28 ± 1 °C, the humidity was 60 ± 5%, the light cycle was 12 h of light and 12 h of darkness, and a suitable hiding place and clean drinking water were provided;

[0130] Before the experiment started, the geckos were adaptively bred in their respective breeding environments for 7 days. During this period, they were fed normally. When feeding, the lighting was turned off to simulate the low-light environment of the experiment to ensure that the geckos adapted to the environment and had normal appetites. When the experiment started, they were fed once every 3 days (for a total of 3 cycles). Fresh feed (the poikilotherm feeds of Example 2 and Comparative Example 4 respectively) was fed at 18:00 every evening, and the feeding amount was 10% of their body weight (accurate to 0.1 g). The feeding amount was adjusted by weighing every week. When feeding, the feed was fixed in the center of the breeding box. After feeding, the box was cleaned to avoid residue interference. During the experiment, the lighting was turned off, and only weak red light was retained for observation.

[0131] Recorded indicators: the first feeding time (the number of seconds from when the feed was placed until the gecko first touched it), and the feeding rate (%) was calculated. The calculation method of the feeding rate is the same as above.

[0132] In addition, the contents of umami substances in the poikilotherm feeds of Example 2 and Comparative Example 4, such as free sodium glutamate (Glu), disodium 5'-inosinate (IMP), disodium 5'-guanylate (GMP), and total free amino acids (FAA), were detected. At the same time, a sensory evaluation group composed of 10 trained sensory evaluators conducted a sensory evaluation on the umami intensity, with a score of 1 - 10 points.

[0133] Among them, free sodium glutamate was detected with reference to GB 7300.1001 - 2020; disodium 5'-inosinate and disodium 5'-guanylate were detected with reference to T / SDFA 038 - 2023; total free amino acids were detected with reference to GB / T 18246 - 2019.

[0134] In Example 2 and Comparative Example 4, the umami substance content and umami intensity of the poikilotherm feed, the first feeding time of the gecko, and the feeding rate results are shown in Table 1.

[0135] Table 1: Umami substance content, umami intensity of the poikilotherm feed in Example 2 and Comparative Example 4, the first feeding time of the gecko, and the feeding rate

[0136] Index Example 2 Comparative Example 4 p value Total Glu (g / kg) 4.10±0.82 4.03±0.75 ＞0.05 IMP + GMP (g / kg) 0.032±0.007 0.000±0.000 ＜0.01 Total FAA (g / kg) 7.25±0.95 7.12±0.90 ＞0.05 Umami intensity score / point 8.5±0.5 6.2±0.8 ＜0.01 First feeding time / s 28±5 55±10 ＜0.01 Feeding rate / % 98.6±1.2 82.1±3.5 ＜0.01

[0137] As can be seen from Table 1, the poikilotherm feed in Example 2 of the present invention contains umami substances IMP and GMP, and the basic umami substance sodium glutamate (Glu) and total free amino acids (FAA) are slightly higher, with obvious umami intensity, thus attracting pets to feed, reducing the first feeding time, and increasing the feeding rate.

[0138] The first feeding time in Example 2 was significantly shorter than that in Comparative Example 4, and the feeding rate was significantly increased. This indicates that the umami synergistic effect between the fermentation product synergist and the insect hydrolysate directly enhanced the feeding motivation of the gecko. The immediate attractiveness stems from the high concentration of umami substances in the surface flavor enrichment layer, while the continuous palatability benefits from the gradient stimulation formed by the slow release of Glu from the core matrix and nucleotides.

[0139] There was no significant difference in the total amount of sodium glutamate (Glu) and the content of total free amino acids (FAA) between Comparative Example 4 and Example 2 (p>0.05), indicating that the absence of the fermentation product synergist does not affect the composition of these basic umami substances in the feed. However, due to the lack of the fermentation product synergist, Comparative Example 4 does not contain umami substances IMP and GMP, and the umami intensity is significantly reduced. Through the calculation of the synergy coefficient (Q value) (Q is about 1.27), it is confirmed that there is a non-linear synergy between nucleotides and Glu (Q>1). The reason may be that from a molecular mechanism perspective, the heterodimer structure of the umami receptor T1R1 / T1R3 has a synergistic response to the binding of nucleotides and Glu. Glu activates the receptor, while nucleotides prolong the receptor activation time, increase the receptor's affinity for Glu, and enhance umami perception.

[0140] Among them, the Q value is a quantitative index to measure whether the combined action of two or more substances produces a synergistic effect, and is used here to measure the synergistic effect when sodium glutamate (Glu) and nucleotides (IMP+GMP) act together.

[0141] The calculation formula is: Q = actual observed effect (umami intensity of the combined action) / theoretical expected effect (sum of the individual action effects). If Q = 1, it means that the combined effect is equal to the sum of the individual actions (no synergistic effect); if Q>1, it means that the combined effect exceeds the sum of the individual actions (there is a synergistic effect).

[0142] The calculation process of the Q value in this experiment is as follows:

[0143] Actual observation effect: The umami intensity score of Example 2 is 8.5 points, representing the actual effect of the combined action of Glu and (IMP + GMP).

[0144] Theoretical expected effect: The umami intensity score of Comparative Example 4 is 6.2 points plus the theoretical contribution of 0.5 points of nucleotides acting alone.

[0145] Q = 8.5 / (6.2 + 0.5) ≈ 1.27 > 1, indicating that the combined action of Glu and (IMP + GMP) is not a simple superposition, but produces a synergistic effect through a molecular mechanism.

[0146] From the above comparison, it can be seen that the fermentation product synergist and the insect hydrolysate have a umami synergistic effect. The fermentation product synergist is irreplaceable. The combined action of the two can enrich umami substances, improve the umami intensity of the poikilotherm feed, thereby reducing the first feeding time and increasing the feeding rate.

[0147] 4. Effects of different sterilization methods on the retention rate of nutritional components and the sterilization effect of the paste

[0148] The poikilotherm feeds prepared by different sterilization methods in Example 1 and Comparative Example 5 were tested for the retention rate of nutritional components and the microbial content, and the poikilotherm feed prepared without sterilization treatment during the preparation process (that is, compared with Example 1, the only difference is that the paste is kept sealed without sterilization treatment) was used as the control group.

[0149] The nutritional components involved in the test are crude protein, crude fat, vitamin B2, and vitamin C, and the Kjeldahl method, Soxhlet extraction method, high performance liquid chromatography method, and 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol titration method are used for testing respectively.

[0150] The microbial species involved in the test are bacteria, Salmonella, coliforms, and molds. The total number of bacteria is detected by the plate counting method, the Salmonella content is detected with reference to GB / T 13091-2018, and the coliform and mold contents are detected with reference to GB / T 18869-2019 and GB / T 13092-2006 respectively.

[0151] The results of the effects of different sterilization methods on crude protein and crude fat are as Figure 4 shown, and the effects of different sterilization methods on vitamin B2 and vitamin C are as Figure 5 shown.

[0152] From Figure 4It can be seen that the crude protein content and crude fat content in the feed for poikilothermic animals in the irradiation sterilization group of Example 1 were 47.2 g / 100 g and 17.7 g / 100 g respectively, which were highly close to those of the control group, and the retention rates were both 98.3%. In Comparative Example 5, the crude protein content and crude fat content were 44.6 g / 100 g and 16.8 g / 100 g respectively, and the retention rates were 92.9% and 93.3% respectively. The retention rates of crude protein and crude fat in Example 1 were higher than those in Comparative Example 5 (the loss of crude protein was 7.1% and the loss of crude fat was 6.7%).

[0153] It can be seen from Figure 5 It can be seen that for heat-sensitive vitamins, the contents of vitamin B2 and vitamin C in the feed for poikilothermic animals in the irradiation sterilization group of Example 1 were 0.81 mg / 100 g and 24.2 mg / 100 g respectively, which were close to those of the control group. The retention rates of vitamin B2 and vitamin C in Example 1 were 95.3% and 96.8% respectively. The contents of vitamin B2 and vitamin C in the feed for poikilothermic animals in the pasteurization group of Comparative Example 5 were 0.62 mg / 100 g and 18.5 mg / 100 g respectively, and the nutrient retention rates were 72.9% and 74.0% respectively.

[0154] That is, the nutrient retention rate of the feed for poikilothermic animals prepared by radiation sterilization in Example 1 was significantly higher than that in Comparative Example 5. This difference was due to the non-thermal effect of irradiation sterilization, which directly damaged the microbial DNA through γ-rays, avoiding the damage to the spatial structure of proteins and the activity of vitamins caused by high-temperature treatment.

[0155] The bactericidal effects of different sterilization methods are shown in Table 2.

[0156] Table 2: Bactericidal effects of different sterilization methods

[0157]

[0158] It can be seen from Table 2 that the total number of bacteria, coliform group and mold in the irradiation sterilization group were significantly lower than those in the pasteurization group, and fully met the standard requirements. It shows that irradiation sterilization has higher reliability in microbial control.

[0159] That is, by adopting the irradiation sterilization technology in Example 1 of the present invention, while ensuring the safety of the feed, the heat-sensitive nutritional components can be retained to the greatest extent, providing better nutritional guarantee for pets.

[0160] In addition, the feeds for poikilothermic animals prepared in Example 2 and Example 3 of the present invention also have good palatability, umami intensity, nutrient retention rate and bactericidal effect.

[0161] In summary, through the synergistic effect of insect-derived feeding attractants, animal-derived feeding attractants, and plant-derived feeding attractants, the present invention can improve the feeding rate and shorten the attack response time, and has good feeding attractiveness. Through the synergistic effect of the fermentation product synergist and the insect hydrolysate, a umami synergistic effect is formed, enhancing the feeding motivation of pets, improving the feeding efficiency, and having good feeding attraction effect. At the same time, by combining the low-temperature preparation process and the irradiation sterilization technology, the retention rate of nutrients is increased, and it has a good sterilization effect, ensuring that pets can ingest comprehensive, balanced and highly active nutrients to meet their growth, development and daily activity needs.

[0162] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention rather than to limit the protection scope of the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that the technical solutions of the present invention can be modified or equivalently replaced without departing from the essence and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention.

Claims

1. A poikilotherm feed, characterized in that, The poikilotherm feed has a core body and a shell layer provided on the surface of the core body; The core body includes sodium alginate, protein base material, attractant A, and fermentation product synergist; The preparation raw materials of the shell layer include sodium alginate and calcium lactate; the shell layer includes attractant B; The attractant A includes insect-derived attractant, animal-derived attractant, and plant-derived attractant; The attractant B includes freeze-dried powder containing fructose and insect hydrolysate.

2. The poikilotherm feed according to claim 1, wherein The insect-derived attractant includes at least one of cricket hydrolysate, yellow mealworm hydrolysate, and insect oil extract; and / or, the animal-derived attractant includes at least one of chicken liver powder, hydrolyzed fish protein, and fish liver oil hydrolysate; and / or, the plant-derived attractant includes at least one of apple puree and carrot extract.

3. The poikilotherm feed according to claim 1, wherein The freeze-dried powder containing fructose includes at least one of honey freeze-dried powder and fruit freeze-dried powder; and / or, the insect hydrolysate includes at least one of cricket hydrolysate, yellow mealworm hydrolysate, black soldier fly hydrolysate, and silkworm pupa hydrolysate.

4. The poikilotherm feed according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the attractant A, the mass ratio of the insect-derived attractant, animal-derived attractant, and plant-derived attractant is 1:(0.55 - 16.5):(0.35 - 4.5); and / or, in the attractant B, the mass ratio of the freeze-dried powder containing fructose to the insect hydrolysate is 1:(0.6 - 1.5).

5. The poikilotherm feed according to claim 1, wherein The protein base material includes at least one of fish meal, shrimp meal, insect powder, blood meal, and spirulina powder; and / or, the fermentation product synergist includes at least one of yeast extract and lactic acid fermentation product.

6. The poikilotherm feed according to claim 1, wherein The core body further includes additives, plasticizers, and solvents; and / or, the attractant B accounts for 0.45 - 2.2% of the total mass of calcium lactate and attractant B.

7. The preparation method of the poikilotherm feed according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The preparation method includes the following steps: Mix, fill, sterilize, and extrude sodium alginate, protein base material, attractant A, and fermentation product synergist to obtain a paste; Mix calcium lactate, attractant B, and solvent to obtain a mixed solution; Immerse the paste in the mixed solution and gelify to prepare the poikilotherm feed; The sterilization is carried out by irradiation sterilization.

8. The preparation method according to claim 7, characterized in that, By mass percentage, the dosages of the preparation raw materials of the paste are 1.3 - 5.5% of sodium alginate, 22 - 65% of protein base material, 0.9 - 4.5% of attractant A, and 0.1 - 0.9% of fermentation product synergist; And / or, in the preparation process of the mixed solution, the mass ratio of the total mass of calcium lactate and attractant B to the dosage of the solvent is 1g:(9 - 22)mL.

9. The preparation method according to claim 7, wherein The preparation process of the paste further includes adding additives, plasticizers, and solvents for mixing.

10. Application of the poikilotherm feed according to any one of claims 1 - 6 in the field of pet breeding.

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