Composition for reducing oil seepage

Abstract

Present invention relates to an oil binding composition for use in an animal feed composition to reduce oil seepage, thereby improving the overall stability and quality of the feed product. The present inventors have demonstrated that the oil binding composition, when included in an animal feed product, significantly reduces and / or prevents seepage of the liquid oil from the animal feed product.

Description

PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]COMPOSITION FOR REDUCING OIL SEEPAGECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of European Application No. 24210721.7. filed November 5, 2024, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to an oil binding composition for use in an animal feed product for reducing oil seepage. The present invention further relates to a process for preparing an oil binding composition for use in animal feed composition for reducing oil seepage. The present invention further relates to an animal feed product comprising said oil binding composition. The present invention further relates to a process for preparing an animal feed product. The present invention further relates to a use of said oil binding composition in an animal feed product.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] High amounts of digestible lipids, in particular liquid oils, are often desirable in animal feed products, as they are beneficial for the grow th and development of animals. Liquid oils are not only used as sources of energy because of their high caloric value. They also offer essential fatty acids and are important for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and pigments. Additionally, liquid oils play a beneficial role in structural properties of the meat of the animals and an improvement of palatability when the meat is consumed. The incorporation of high amounts of liquid oils in animal feed products is difficult to achieve since the liquid oil needs to be structurally retained in the feed product.

[0004] Seepage of liquid oils results in a decreased provision of liquid oils to the animal, which in turn results in a decreased nutritional effect. Seepage of liquid oils also results in issues during transportation of the animal feed, such as clogging in transport pipes, eventually causingPT-2024-WO-PCT[2] disruption of the feed stream to the animals, prolongation of feeding time and requirement of additional resources for cleaning.

[0005] Additives for preventing seepage currently need to be incorporated into the animal feed product to efficiently reduce the seepage of oils from an animal feed product. Many additives used to prevent seepage are non-nutritional and cannot be effectively processed by certain animals, especially fish. This significantly diminishes the overall nutritional value of the animal feed. Furthermore, these additives are not sufficiently effective in preventing seepage in recipes with high fat content. They also do not contribute positively to the animals' grow th and development, and the quantities required for effectiveness are either impractical or not economically feasible.

[0006] There is a need to overcome the disadvantages associated with the known animal feed products.

[0007] WO2022 / 108759 Al discloses an animal feed product comprising a combination of non-interesterified triglycerides, and interesterified triglycerides.

[0008] WO2021 / 194408 Al contemplates an oil binding ingredient for use in an animal feed product comprising C16, C18 and C22 based fatty acids.

[0009] W02020 / 007965 Al discloses an animal feed composition comprising wax-esters as oil binding ingredient.

[0010] However, there remains a need to provide an oil binding composition to reduce the tendency of seepage of liquid oils.

[0011] It is an object of the present invention to provide an oil binding composition for use in an animal feed composition.

[0012] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a process for preparing said oil binding composition.

[0013] It is a further object of the present invention to provide an animal feed product comprising said oil binding composition.

[0014] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a process for preparing an animal feed product.

[0015] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a use of said oil binding composition.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONPT-2024-WO-PCT[2][0016J The present invention relates to an oil binding composition for use in an animal feed product comprising a triglyceride composition, a monoglyceride composition and fumed silica.

[0017] The present inventors have surprisingly found that the combination of the triglyceride composition and the monoglyceride composition with the silica affords an oil binding composition, which, when included in an animal feed product, reduces and / or prevents seepage of the liquid oil from the animal feed product.

[0018] Without wishing to be bound by any theory the present inventors believe that the combination of the triglyceride composition with the monoglyceride composition and the silica results in a fast crystallization when combined with the liquid oil in the animal feed product. Moreover, it is believed that the silica creates a strong network within the animal feed product, which captures the liquid well within the animal feed product. In other words, the oil binding compositions create a structure that incorporates the liquid oil. This leads to the crystallization of the oil-binding ingredient, which has the ability to bind oil, thereby trapping the liquid oil within the structure. As a result, the seepage of liquid oil from the animal feed product is significantly reduced or even prevented. The skilled person is aware of the various techniques established in the field to evaluate oil reducing properties of oil binding compositions. Preferably the oil reducing or oil seepage properties of the oil binding composition are measured by capillary test as defined in the enclosed examples.

[0019] The present invention also relates to a process for preparing said oil binding composition.

[0020] The present invention also relates to an animal feed product comprising said oil binding composition.

[0021] The present invention also relates to a process for preparing an animal feed product.

[0022] The present invention also relates to a use of said oil binding composition.

[0023] Representative features of the invention are set out in the following clauses, which stand alone or may be combined, in any combination, with one or more features disclosed in the text and / or drawings of the specification.1. An oil binding composition for use in an animal feed composition comprising- a triglyceride composition in amount from 85 to 99 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition,PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]- a monoglyceride composition in an amount from 1 to 10 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition, and- fumed silica in an amount from 0.1 to 5 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition.2. Oil binding composition according to clause 1, wherein the triglyceride composition comprises from 30 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 40 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 50 to 95 wt.%.3. Oil binding composition according to clause 1, wherein the triglyceride composition comprises from 70 to 99 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties of the triglyceride composition.4. Oil binding composition according to clause 3, wherein the triglyceride composition comprises from 75 to 98 wt.% of saturated C l 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 80 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 85 to 95 wt.%.5. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-4. wherein the triglyceride composition comprises from 0 to 30 wt.% of saturated Cl 6 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 28 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 25 wt.%.6. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-5. wherein the triglyceride composition is in an amount from 85 to 98 wt.%, preferably from 88 to 98 wt.% relative to the composition, more preferably an amount from 90 to 97 wt.%, most preferably an amount from 92 to 95 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition.7. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-6, wherein the monoglyceride composition comprises from 30 to 98 wt.% of saturated C l 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 40 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 50 to 95 wt.%.8. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-6, wherein thePT-2024-WO-PCT[2] monoglyceride composition comprises from 70 to 99 wt.% of saturated C18 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties of the monoglyceride composition.9. Oil binding composition according to clause 8, wherein the monoglyceride composition comprises from 75 to 98 wt.% of saturated C18 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 80 to 96 wt .%, more preferably from 85 to 95 wt.%.10. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-9, wherein the monoglyceride composition comprises from 0 to 30 wt.% of saturated C16 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 28 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 25 wt.%.11. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-10, wherein the monoglyceride composition is an amount from 2 to 8 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition, preferably an amount from 3 to 7 wt.%, more preferably an amount from 4 to 6 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition.12. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-11 comprising the fumed silica in an amount from 0.5 to 4 wt.%, more preferably from 1 to 3 wt.%, most preferably from 1.5 to 3 wt.%, relative to the oil binding composition.13. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-12, wherein the saturated C18 fatty acid moieties are stearic acid moieties.14. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-13, wherein the triglyceride composition is derived from a fully hydrogenated vegetable oil or fat; preferably selected from the group consisting of fully hydrogenated sunflower oil, fully hydrogenated camelina oil, fully hydrogenated olive oil, fully hydrogenated com oil, fully hydrogenated sesame oil, fully hydrogenated shea fat, fully hydrogenated lineseed oil, fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil. fully hydrogenated high-erucic rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated cotton seed oil, fully hydrogenated ground nut oil, fully hydrogenated soy bean oil, and any combination thereof; more preferably selected from fully hydrogenatedPT-2024-WO-PCT[2] rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated sunflower oil, fully hydrogenated soy bean oil, fully hydrogenated cottonseed oil and any combination thereof, most preferably the vegetable oil is fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil.15. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-14, wherein the monoglyceride composition is derived from a fully hydrogenated vegetable oil or fat; preferably selected from the group consisting of fully hydrogenated sunflower oil, fully hydrogenated camelina oil, fully hydrogenated olive oil, fully hydrogenated com oil. fully hydrogenated sesame oil, fully hydrogenated shea fat, fully hydrogenated lineseed oil, fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated high-erucic rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated cotton seed oil, fully hydrogenated ground nut oil, fully hydrogenated soy bean oil. and any combination thereof; more preferably selected from fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated sunflower oil, fully hydrogenated soy bean oil, fully hydrogenated cottonseed oil and any combination thereof, most preferably the vegetable oil is fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil.16. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-15, wherein the triglyceride composition and monoglyceride composition are derived from the same fully hydrogenated vegetable oil or fat, preferably both derived from fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil.17. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-16, wherein the fumed silica is hy drophobic or hydrophilic.18. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-17, wherein the oil binding composition is fully hydrogenated.19. Oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-18 being an oil binding ingredient.20. The oil binding composition obtainable by mixing the triglyceride composition as defined in any one of the clauses 1-19, the monoglyceride as defined in any one of the clauses 1-PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]19, and the fumed silica as defined in any one the clauses 1-19.21. A process for preparing the composition according to any one the clauses 1-19 comprising adding the fumed silica as defined in any one the clauses 1-19 to a mixture of the triglyceride composition as defined in any one the clauses 1-19 and the monoglyceride composition as defined any one the clauses 1-19.22. Process according to clause 21, wherein the triglyceride composition and the monoglyceride composition are liquid before adding the fumed silica.23. Process according to clause 21 or 22, wherein the mixture is cooled to obtain a solid composition.24. An animal feed product comprising at least one animal feed ingredient and the oil binding composition according to any one the clauses 1-20 in an amount from 0.01 to 10 wt.% relative to the animal feed product, more preferably from 0.02 to 8 wt.%, most preferably from 0.05 to 5 wt.%.25. Animal feed product according to clause 24 comprising a total lipid content between 20 and 50 wt.% relative to the animal feed composition.26. Animal feed product according to clause 25, wherein the total lipid content is from 25 to 48 wt.%, preferably from 27 to 45 wt.%, more preferably from 30 to 40 wt.%.27. Animal feed product according to any one of the clauses 24-26, wherein the oil binding composition is distributed within the composition.28. Animal feed product according to clause 25 or 26, wherein the total lipid content comprises at least 40 wt.% of a liquid oil. preferably at least 50 wt.%, more preferably at least 60 wt.%.29. Animal feed product according to clause 28, wherein the liquid oil is a vegetable oil, preferably selected from the group consisting of sunflower oil, safflower oil, canola oil, rapeseed oil, rice bran oil, olive oil, soybean oil, com oil, cotton oil, sesame seed oil, palmPT-2024-WO-PCT[2] oil or algae oil; or an animal oil, such as fish oil; or any combination thereof.30. Animal feed product according to any one of the clauses 24-29, wherein the product is an aquafeed product, preferably a fish feed product, more preferably a salmon feed product.31. Animal feed product according to any one of the clauses 24-30, wherein the product is in the form of a pellet.32. A process for preparing an animal feed product, preferably the animal feed product according to any one of the clauses 24-31, comprising adding the oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-20 to at least one animal feed ingredient to obtain an animal feed product.33. Use of the oil binding composition according to any one of the clauses 1-20 in an animal feed product to reduce oil seepage.34. Use of the animal feed product according to any one of the clauses 24-31 for feeding an animal, preferably a fish, more preferably a salmon.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] FIG. 1 shows an example of measuring the fluid level in the capillary tubes (not limiting to the invention).DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The term "comprising", as used herein and in the claims, should not be interpreted as being restricted to the means listed thereafter; it does not exclude other elements or steps. It needs to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components as referred to but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps or components, or groups thereof. Thus, the scope of the expression "a composition comprising components A and B" should not be limited to compositions consistingPT-2024-WO-PCT[2] only of components A and B. It means that with respect to the present invention, the only relevant components of the composition are A and B. Accordingly, the terms "comprising" and "including" encompass the more restrictive terms "consisting essentially of and "consisting of.Oil binding composition

[0026] A first aspect of the invention is providing an oil binding composition for use in an animal feed product comprising a triglyceride composition in amount from 85 to 99 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition,- a monoglyceride composition in an amount from 1 to 10 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition, and fumed silica in an amount from 0.1 to 5 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition.Triglyceride

[0027] The triglyceride composition may have an amount from 85 to 98 wt.%, preferably from 88 to 98 wt.% relative to the composition, more preferably an amount from 90 to 97 wt.%, most preferably an amount from 92 to 95 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition.

[0028] The triglyceride composition may comprise from 30 to 98 wt.% of saturated C18 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 40 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 50 to 95 wt.%. As appreciated by the skilled person the amount of fatty’ acid moieties defined within the triglyceride composition is relative to the total fatty' acid moieties present within the triglyceride composition unless defined otherwise.

[0029] The triglyceride composition may comprise from 70 to 99 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty' acid moieties relative to the total fatty7acid moieties of the triglyceride composition. Preferably, the triglyceride composition comprises from 75 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty’ acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 80 to 96 wt.%. more preferably from 85 to 96 wt.%. more preferably from 85 to 95 wt.%.

[0030] The term “triglyceride composition” encompasses oils and / or fats from any vegetable, animal or microbial source. The triglycerides may be oils and fats that are occurring in nature or that have been further subjected to a refining process, such as, but not limited to, degumming, bleaching, and / or deodorization. The triglycerides may also be oils and / or fats that have been further subjected to a process for modifying the structure of oils and fats, such as, butPT-2024-WO-PCT[2] not limited to. fractionation, hydrogenation, interesterification or a combination of two or more processes. The triglycerides may include oils and / or fats from a single origin or blends of two or more oils and / or fats from different sources or with different characteristics.

[0031] Moreover, a “triglyceride composition’" in the present invention is encompassing a composition comprising fatty acid moieties with a carbon chain length in a range of C 12 to C22, preferably Cl 6 to C20, in an amount of more than 70% on total weight of the fatty acid moiety. It is clear that the fattv7acid moiety is referring to the carbon chain length of the fatty acid, being free or bound, preferably bound.

[0032] Preferably, the triglyceride composition comprises a triglyceride content of more than 70 wt.%, preferably more than 80 wt.%, more preferably more than 90 wt.%, even more preferably more than 95 wt.%, even more preferably more than 98 wt.%, most preferably more than 99 wt.% on total weight of the triglyceride composition. Preferably, the triglyceride composition comprises a triglyceride content from 70 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably from 80 wt.% to 99 wt.%, most preferably from 90 wt.% to 98 wt.% on total weight of the triglyceride composition.

[0033] The fatty acid moiety' of the triglyceride composition according to the present invention may have a combined content of a fatty acid moiety with a carbon chain length in a range of C12 to C22, preferably C16 to C20, of more than 70%, preferably more than 75%, more preferably more than 80 wt.% on total weight of the fatty acid moiety. Preferably, the combined content of fatty acid moiety of C 16 to C20 of the triglyceride composition according to the present invention is present in an amount of more than 92 wt.%, more preferably more than 94 wt.%, most preferably more than 96 wt.% on total weight of the fatty acid moiety. Preferably, the combined content of fatty acid moiety of C16 to C20 of the triglyceride composition according to the present invention is present in an amount of about 100 wt.% or less than 100 wt.% on total weight of the fatty' acid moiety'.

[0034] The triglyceride composition may have a free fatty acid content of less than 50 wt.%, less than 40 wt.% or less than 30 wt.% on total weight of the triglyceride composition. Preferably, the triglyceride composition has a content of free fatty acids of less than 1 %, less than 0.7 wt.% or even less than 0.5 wt.% on total weight of the triglyceride composition. Preferably, the triglyceride composition has a content of free fatty' acids from 0 wt.% to 1 wt.%, preferably from 0 wt.% to 0.7 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 wt.% to 0.5 wt.% on total weight of the triglyceride composition.PT-2024-WO-PCT[2][0024J The triglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C 14 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moi eties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%. The triglyceride composition may also be substantially free of saturated C14 fatty acid moieties. By "substantially free" it is meant herein that the saturated C14 fatty acid moieties are below the detection limits of the measurement method.

[0025] The triglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 30 wt.% of saturated Cl 6 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 28 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 25 wt.%. Alternatively, the triglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 10 wt.% of saturated Cl 6 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties. preferably from 1 to 8 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 7 wt.%.

[0026] The triglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 5 wt. % of saturated C20 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0.1 to 3 wt.%, more preferably from 0.2 to 2 wt.%. The triglyceride composition may also be substantially free of saturated C20 fatty acid moieties. By "substantially free" it is meant herein that the saturated C20 fatty acid moieties are below the detection limits of the measurement method.

[0027] The triglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 5 wt. % of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0. 1 to 1 wt.%. The triglyceride composition may also be substantially free of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties. By "substantially free" it is meant herein that the saturated C22 fatty acid moieties are below the detection limits of the measurement method. Alternatively, the triglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 55 wt.% of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 20 to 55 wt.%, more preferably from 40 to 50 wt.%.

[0035] Preferably, the triglyceride composition comprises- from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C14 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty7acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%; from 0 to 30 wt.% of saturated C16 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 28 wt.%. more preferably from 2 to 25 wt.%; from 70 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty' acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 80 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 85 to 95 wt.%;- from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C20 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0.1 to 3 wt.%, more preferably from 0.2 to 2 wt.%; andPT-2024-WO-PCT[2]- from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%.

[0036] Preferably, the triglyceride composition comprises- from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C14 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0. 1 to 1 wt.%;- from 0 to 10 wt.% of saturated Cl 6 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 8 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 7 wt.%;- from 70 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 80 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 85 to 95 wt.%;- from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C20 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0.1 to 3 wt.%, more preferably from 0.2 to 2 wt.% from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C22 fatty7acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%.

[0037] Preferably, the triglyceride composition comprises from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C14 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%; from 0 to 10 wt.% of saturated C16 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 8 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 7 wt.%;- from 20 to 50 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty' acid moieties relative to the total fatty7acid moieties, preferably from 25 to 45 wt.%, more preferably from 30 to 40 wt.%; from 0 to 15 wt.% of saturated C20 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 2 to 12 wt.%, more preferably from 4 to 10 wt.%; and- from 0 to 55 wt.% of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 20 to 55 wt.%, more preferably from 40 to 50 wt.%.

[0038] The triglyceride composition may be derived from a fully hydrogenated vegetable oil or fat; preferably selected from the group consisting of fully hydrogenated sunflower oil, fully hydrogenated camelina oil, fully hydrogenated olive oil, fully hydrogenated com oil, fully hydrogenated sesame oil, fully hydrogenated shea fat, fully hydrogenated lineseed oil, fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated high-erucic rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated cotton seed oil, fully hydrogenated ground nut oil, fully hydrogenated soy bean oil, and any combination thereof; more preferably selected from fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil. fully hydrogenatedPT-2024-WO-PCT[2] sunflower oil, fully hydrogenated soy bean oil, fully hydrogenated cottonseed oil and any combination thereof, most preferably the vegetable oil is fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil.

[0039] Examples of the triglyceride composition may be commercially available oils such as Cargill products RS70CH (fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil) or SF70CH (fully hydrogenated sunflower oil).

[0040] As appreciated by the skilled person hydrogenated oils are oils that were subjected to a hydrogenation process, wherein a double bond of an unsaturated fatty acid is reduced and converted into a saturated fatty acid. Hydrogenation of the oil can be partially, resulting in a partially hydrogenated oil. wherein the unsaturated fatty acids are partially converted into saturated fatty acids. Alternatively, hydrogenation of the oil is substantially complete, resulting in a fully hydrogenated oil, wherein substantially all unsaturated fatty acids in the oil are converted into saturated fatty acids.Monoglyceride

[0041] The monoglyceride composition may have an amount from 2 to 8 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition, preferably an amount from 3 to 7 wt.%, more preferably an amount from 4 to 6 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition.

[0042] The monoglyceride composition may comprise from 30 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moi eties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 40 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 50 to 95 wt.%. As appreciated by the skilled person the amount fatty acid moieties defined within the monoglyceride composition is relative to the total fatty7acid moieties present within the monoglyceride unless defined otherwise.

[0043] The monoglyceride composition may comprise from 70 to 99 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties of the monoglyceride composition Preferably, the monoglyceride composition comprises from 75 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty7acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 80 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 85 to 95 wt.%.

[0044] The term "monoglyceride" as used herein means single fatty acid esters of glycerol. The monoglyceride may unavoidably contain a fraction of diglycerides or triglycerides as impurities. Preferably the monoglyceride is distilled to lower the impurity level.

[0045] Moreover, a "‘monoglyceride composition” in the present invention is encompassing a composition comprising fatty acid moieties with a carbon chain length in a rangePT-2024-WO-PCT[2] of C 12 to C22, preferably C 16 to C20, in an amount of more than 70% on total weight of the fatty acid moiety. It is clear that the fatty acid moiety is referring to the carbon chain length of the fatty acid, being free or bound, preferably bound.

[0046] Preferably, the monoglyceride composition comprises a monoglyceride content of more than 70 wt.%, preferably more than 80 wt.%, more preferably more than 90 wt.%, even more preferably more than 95 wt.%, even more preferably more than 98 wt.%, most preferably more than 99 wt.% on total weight of the monoglyceride composition. Preferably, the monoglyceride composition comprises a monoglyceride content from 70 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably from 80 wt.% to 99 wt.%, most preferably from 90 wt.% to 98 wt.%.

[0047] The fatty acid moiety of the monoglyceride composition according to the present invention may have a combined content of a fatty acid moiety with a carbon chain length in a range of C12 to C22, preferably C16 to C20, of more than 70%, preferably more than 75%, more preferably more than 80 wt.% on total weight of the fatty acid moiety. Preferably, the combined content of fatty acid moiety of C 16 to C20 of the monoglyceride composition according to the present invention is present in an amount of more than 92 wt.%, more than 94 wt .%, more than 96 wt.% on total w eight of the fatty7acid moiety7. Preferably, the combined content of fatty7acid moiety7of C 16 to C20 of the monoglyceride composition according to the present invention is present in an amount of about 100 wt.% or less than 100 wt.% on total weight of the fatty7acid moiety7.

[0048] The monoglyceride composition may have a free fatty acid content of less than 50 wt.%, less than 40 wt.% or less than 30 wt.% on total weight of the monoglyceride composition. Preferably, the monoglyceride composition has a content of free fatty acids of less than 1%, less than 0.7 wt.% or even less than 0.5 wt.% on total weight of the monoglyceride composition. Preferably, the monoglyceride composition has a content of free fatty acids from 0 wt.% to 1 wt.%, preferably from 0 wt.% to 0.7 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 wt.% to 0.5 wt.% on total weight of the monoglyceride composition.

[0049] The monoglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C14 fatty7acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%. The monoglyceride composition may also be substantially free of saturated C14 fatty7acid moieties. By "substantially free" it is meant herein that the saturated C14 fatty acid moieties are below the detection limits of the measurement method.PT-2024-WO-PCT[2][0050J The monoglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 30 wt.% of saturated C16 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 28 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 25 wt.%. Alternatively, the monoglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 10 wt.% of saturated C 16 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 8 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 7 wt.%.

[0051] The monoglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C20 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0.1 to 3 wt.%, more preferably from 0.2 to 2 wt.%. The monoglyceride composition may also be substantially free of saturated C20 fatty acid moieties. By "substantially free" it is meant herein that the saturated C20 fatty acid moieties are below the detection limits of the measurement method.

[0052] The monoglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%. The monoglyceride composition may also be substantially free of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties. By "substantially free" it is meant herein that the saturated C22 fatty acid moieties are below the detection limits of the measurement method. Alternatively, the monoglyceride composition may comprise from 0 to 55 wt.% of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 20 to 55 wt.%, more preferably from 40 to 50 wt.%.

[0053] Preferably, the monoglyceride composition comprises from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C14 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%;- from 0 to 30 wt.% of saturated C16 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 28 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 25 wt.%; from 70 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 80 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 85 to 95 wt.%; from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C20 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0. 1 to 3 wt.%, more preferably from 0.2 to 2 wt.%; and from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%. more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%.

[0054] Preferably, the monoglyceride composition comprises- from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C14 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%;PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]- from 0 to 10 wt.% of saturated Cl 6 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 8 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 7 wt.%;- from 70 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty' acid moieties, preferably from 80 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 85 to 95 wt.%;- from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C20 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 0. 1 to 3 wt.%, more preferably from 0.2 to 2 d.% from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C22 fatty7acid moieties relative to the total fatty' acid moieties, preferably from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 to 1 wt.%.

[0055] Preferably, the monoglyceride composition comprises- from 0 to 5 wt.% of saturated C14 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably7from 0 to 2 wt.%, more preferably7from 0.1 to 1 wt.%; from 0 to 10 wt.% of saturated C16 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 1 to 8 wt.%, more preferably from 2 to 7 wt.%;- from 20 to 50 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty7acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 25 to 45 wt.%, more preferably from 30 to 40 wt.%; from 0 to 15 wt.% of saturated C20 fatty' acid moieties relative to the total fatty' acid moieties, preferably from 2 to 12 wt.%, more preferably from 4 to 10 wt.%; and- from 0 to 55 wt.% of saturated C22 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 20 to 55 wt.%, more preferably from 40 to 50 wt.%.

[0056] The monoglyceride composition may be derived from monoglycerides of a fully hydrogenated vegetable oil or fat; preferably selected from the group consisting of fully- hydrogenated sunflower oil, fully hydrogenated camelina oil, fully hydrogenated olive oil, fully hydrogenated com oil, fully hydrogenated sesame oil. fully hydrogenated shea fat, fully hydrogenated lineseed oil, fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated high-erucic rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated cotton seed oil, fully hydrogenated ground nut oil, fully hydrogenated soy bean oil. and any combination thereof; more preferably selected from fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil. fully hydrogenated sunflower oil. fully hydrogenated soy bean oil, fully hydrogenated cottonseed oil and any combination thereof, most preferably the vegetable oil is fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil.

[0057] Examples of the monoglyceride composition may be commercially available compositions such as Oleon Radiamuls MG 2914K or Danisco Dimodan HR.PT-2024-WO-PCT[2][0058J As appreciated by the skilled person hydrogenated monoglyceride compositions are compositions that were subjected to a hydrogenation process, wherein a double bond of an unsaturated fatty acid is reduced and converted into a saturated fatty7acid. Hydrogenation of the monoglyceride composition can be partially, resulting in a partially hydrogenated oil, wherein the unsaturated fatty acids are partially converted into saturated fatty acids. Alternatively, hydrogenation of the monoglyceride composition is substantially complete, resulting in a fully hydrogenated monoglyceride composition, wherein substantially all unsaturated fatty acids in the oil are converted into saturated fatty acids.

[0059] As appreciated by the skilled person, the saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties as defined in the present invention are stearic acid moieties.

[0060] More preferably, the triglyceride composition and monoglyceride composition are derived from the same fully hydrogenated vegetable oil or fat, preferably both derived from fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil.

[0061] The weight ratio of the triglyceride composition to the monoglyceride composition may be between 50: 1 to 1: 1, preferably between 30:1 to 10: 1, more preferably between 25: 1 to 15: 1, even more preferably between 20: 1 to 16: 1, most preferably between 19: 1 to 18: 1.Fumed silica

[0062] A particularly important component of the oil binding compositions of the present invention is the fumed silica. It has been demonstrated that the incorporation of fumed silica into the mixture enhances the retention of oil in the animal feed composition.

[0063] Fumed silicas are typically produced by the hydrolysis of silicon tetrachloride vapor in a flame of hydrogen and oxygen. These silicas are referred to as "fumed" silicas because of the smoke like appearance of the silica in the flame during manufacture. The term "pyrogenic" silica is another name used for fumed silicas. Fumed silicas have a fine, particulate form and are usually composed of aggregates of many smaller particles which have been fused together. During the formation of fumed silicas, hydroxyl groups become attached to some of the silicon atoms on the particle surface. These hydroxyl groups render the silica surface hydrophilic and capable of hydrogen bonding. Thus, the fumed silica may be hydrophilic. Alternatively, the fumed silica may be hydrophobic. Such fumed hydrophobic silica powders can be prepared by treatment of the corresponding hydrophilic silicas with silanes. Preferably, the fumed silica is hydrophilic.PT-2024-WO-PCT[2][0064J Preferably, the fumed silica is present in an amount from 0.5 to 4 wt.%, more preferably from 1 to 3 wt.%, most preferably from 1.5 to 3 wt.%, relative to the oil binding composition.

[0065] The fumed silica may have a BET value from 100 to 500 m2 / g, preferably from 125 to 420 m2 / g, more preferably from 150 to 250 m2 / g.

[0066] The fumed silica may have a tamped density from 40 to 60 g / 1, preferably from 45 to 55 g / 1, more preferably from 48 to 52 g / 1, most preferably about 50 g / 1.

[0067] As appreciated by the skilled person the fumed silica should be feed grade or suitable for feed, such as Aerosil®200F or Aerosil®380F.

[0068] The present inventors have surprisingly found that precipitated silicas (like SIPERNAT® or ZEOFREE®) are not beneficial in the oil binding composition. This is because they create a precipitate in the oil binding composition, which prevents their integration into the animal feed product.

[0069] The weight ratio of the triglyceride composition to the fumed silica may be between 100: 1 to 1 : 1, preferably between 80: 1 to 10: 1, more preferably between 70: 1 to 40: 1, even more preferably between 60: 1 to 30: 1, most preferably between 50: 1 to 40: 1.

[0070] The weight ratio of the monoglyceride composition to the fumed silica may be between 10: 1 to 1: 1, preferably between 8: 1 to 1 : 1, more preferably between 6: 1 to 1.5: 1. even more preferably between 4: 1 to 2: 1, most preferably between 3: 1 to 2: 1.

[0071] The oil binding composition as defined in the present invention may be fully hydrogenated. Worded differently, the oil binding composition comprises- a fully hydrogenated triglyceride composition, wherein the fully hydrogenated triglyceride composition is the triglyceride composition as defined in the present invention, preferably the triglyceride composition derived from the fully hydrogenated vegetable oil or fat as defined in the present invention; and- a fully hydrogenated monoglyceride composition, wherein the fully hydrogenated monoglyceride composition is the monoglyceride composition as defined in the present invention, preferably the monoglycerides of a fully hydrogenated vegetable oil or fat as defined in the present invention.PT-2024-WO-PCT[2][0072J Thus, the fully hydrogenated oil binding compositions does not contain any other triglycerides, diglycerides, monoglycerides and / or free fatty acids having an unsaturated fatty acid moiety.

[0073] The oil binding composition as defined in the present invention may be an oil binding ingredient.Process for oil binding composition

[0074] In a second aspect of the invention a process for preparing the oil binding composition is provided, wherein the oil binding composition is defined under the first aspect of the invention comprising adding the fumed silica as defined under the first aspect of the invention to a mixture of the triglyceride composition as defined under the first aspect of the invention and the monogly ceride composition as defined under the first aspect of the invention.

[0075] The mixture of triglyceride composition and the monoglyceride composition may be liquid. This may occur by first heating the mixture of triglyceride composition and the monoglyceride composition until it becomes liquid. After addition of the fumed silica, the mixture may then be cooled to obtain a solid oil binding composition.Product by process

[0076] In a third aspect of the invention the oil binding composition is provided obtainable by the process for preparing the oil binding composition as defined under the second aspect of the invention. As appreciated by the skilled person all features related to the oil binding composition as explained under the first aspect of the invention and the process for preparing the oil binding composition as explained under the second aspect of the invention apply mutatis mutandis to the oil binding composition obtainable by the process for preparing the oil binding composition. For example, all features related to the amount and identity of the triglyceride composition, monoglyceride composition and fumed silica, explained in the context of the first aspect and second aspect of the invention are equally applicable the oil binding composition obtainable by the process for preparing the oil binding composition.Animal feed product

[0077] In a fourth aspect of the invention an animal feed product is provided comprising the oil binding composition as defined under the first aspect of the invention and / or the the oilPT-2024-WO-PCT[2] binding composition obtainable by the process for preparing the oil binding composition as defined under the third aspect of the invention, and at least one animal feed ingredient.

[0078] An animal feed product is a product that, when fed to animals, may nourish and more in particular may promote the growth and development of animals.

[0079] Preferably, the oil binding composition is present in an amount from 0.01 to 10 wt.% relative to the animal feed product, more preferably from 0.02 to 8 wt.%, most preferably from 0.05 to 5 wt.%.

[0080] Preferably, the animal feed product comprises a total lipid content between 20 and 50 wt.% relative to the animal feed composition. “Lipid” is a term well-known in the art and due to the high-energy value of lipids, high amounts of digestible lipids are desirable in the animal feed product, as this may effectively promote the growth and development of animals. The animal feed product preferably comprises a total lipid content of from 25 to 48 wt.%, preferably from 27 to 45 wt.%, more preferably from 30 to 40 wt.%.

[0081] The total lipid content of the animal feed product comprises at least 40 wt.% of a liquid oil, preferably at least 50 wt .%, more at least 60 wt.% relative to the total lipid content. The liquid oil can be one liquid oil or more liquid oils, i.e., a mixture of more than one liquid oil. High amounts of liquid in the animal feed product are particularly preferred, as the high-energy value of liquid oils can promote the growth and development of the animals being fed with the animal feed product. The total lipid content preferably comprises at most 99.9 wt.%, preferably at most 92 wt.%, more preferably at most 90 wt.% of a liquid oil.

[0082] The liquid oil is derived from a vegetable oil or an animal oil or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the liquid oil is a vegetable liquid oil derived from vegetable liquid oils or vegetable liquid oil blends, fractions thereof, fractions of palm oil, palm kernel oil, and / or mixture of two or more thereof. The vegetable liquid oils are selected from the group consisting sunflower oil, safflower oil, canola oil, rapeseed oil, rice bran oil, olive oil, soybean oil, com oil, cotton oil, sesame seed oil, palm oil or microbial oil such as algae oil; or an animal oil, such as fish oil or any combination thereof. The term "liquid oil” is defined as triglycerides with a melting point of less than 20 °C.

[0083] Preferably, the oil binding composition is distributed within the animal feed product. The oil binding composition is distributed within the animal feed product so that the animal feed product may comprise the maximum amount of liquid oil. By the distribution of the oil binding composition within the animal feed product, seepage of the liquid oil from the animalPT-2024-WO-PCT[2] feed product is reduced and / or prevented. More preferably, the oil binding product is uniformly distributed within the animal feed product. The oil binding product is thus incorporated throughout the composition and not only in certain sections of the animal feed product.

[0084] The animal feed product comprises at least one animal feed ingredient such as proteins and / or carbohydrates. The specific amounts of proteins and / or carbohydrates in the animal feed composition are adjusted based on the individual needs of the animal being fed with the animal feed composition. The term proteins relates to all kinds of proteins both of animal and vegetable origin. The term proteins further comprises all kinds of enzymes, peptides and single amino acids. Enzy mes may be added to the animal feed composition to increase the digestibility of certain ingredients of the animal feed composition by the animal that is fed with the animal feed composition. Examples for such enzymes are hydrolases or phytases. In addition, other enzy mes may be used that allow the removal of certain toxins in the animal feed composition, such as the removal of mycotoxins. Peptides that may be used in the animal feed composition may preferably be these peptides that promote the growth and / or health of certain animals. Examples for such peptides may be peptides derived from gelatin or collagen. The animal feed composition preferably contains single amino acids that the animal being fed cannot synthesize on its own in its body. The term carbohydrates relates to all kinds of mono-, di-, oligo-, and polysaccharides. This may include polysaccharides derived from cereals, such as wheat, com, rice, tapioca, barley or oat. Further examples of polysaccharides are all kinds of starches including modified starches. Moreover, the animal feed product may further comprise minerals and / or vitamins. The selection of specific minerals and / or vitamins as well as their amounts in the animal feed composition are adjusted based on the individual needs of the animal being fed with the animal feed product. Examples for minerals in the animal feed product are magnesium, manganese, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, iron, copper, zinc, selenium, iodine and molybdenum. Due to the high lipid content in the animal feed product, preferably lipid-soluble vitamins are added to the animal feed composition, such as that belonging to the group of vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E or vitamin K. Water-soluble vitamins may also be present in the animal feed product, such as these belonging to the group of vitamin B or vitamin C.

[0085] Preferably, the animal feed product is a solid animal feed product, more preferably in form of a pellet. Preferably, the pellet has small pores, i.e., the pellet is a porous pellet. The use of an oil binding composition for a porous animal feed product is particularly effective in the reduction or prevention of liquid oil seepage.PT-2024-WO-PCT[2][0086J The animal feed product according to the present invention is used as aquafeed, for companion or farmed animals and in pet food. Typically, the animal feed composition for companion or farmed animals is used for animals such as, but not limited to, cattle (dairy' or beef), pig, horse, goat, sheep, rodents, chicken, goose, duck or turkey. Pet food is more dedicated to dogs or cats. Aquafeed is suitable for fish (e.g., farm- and coastal-raised carp, tilapia, salmon, walleye, trout, sea-bass or catfish, and the like), and crustaceans (including without limitation, shrimp, lobster, crabs, crayfish, and prawns), and mollusks (including without limitation snails, clams, oysters, squid, octopus and mussels).

[0087] The animal feed product according to the invention is preferably an aquafeed product, more preferably a fish feed product. The fish may be salmonids, preferably salmon, trout or chars, more preferably salmon. Preferably, the fish feed product is a salmon feed product. Salmonids, preferably salmon, require particularly high amounts of liquids oils. The fish feed product preferably does not float on a water surface, but rather slowly sinks in the water. Preferably, the fish feed composition is dust-free, and stable in w ater. The size of the fish feed composition depends on the individual type of fish, and is known by a person skilled in the art.Process for animal feed product

[0088] In a fifth aspect the invention provides a process for producing an animal feed product, preferably the animal feed product as defined under the fourth aspect of the invention, by adding the oil binding composition according as defined under the first aspect or the third aspect of the invention to at least one animal feed ingredient to obtain an animal feed product.

[0089] The animal feed product may be produced by processes known in the art. For example, the process comprises the following steps:(a) Mixing the at least one animal feed ingredient with an aqueous liquid to provide a mixture,(b) Extruding the mixture obtained in step (a),(c) Optionally adjusted the moisture content of the extruded mixture,(d) Melting the oil binding composition,(e) Blending the melted oil binding composition and the liquid oil and keeping the blend in fully melted state,(f) Adding the melted blend to the extruded mixture obtained in step (c) or (d); and(g) Cooling the product obtained in step (f).PT-2024-WO-PCT[2][0090J During step (a), the at least one animal feed ingredient is preconditioned before extrusion step (b). The preconditioning step is important to supply the extruder with a uniformly mixed and hydrated material, preferably mechanical stirring and adding saturated steam. Step (a) is preferably conduced at a temperature of 70 to 98 °C. The mixture obtained from step (a) preferably has a moisture content of from 20 to 35 wt.%.

[0091] Preferably, the aqueous liquid is water.

[0092] The selection of suitable extrusion conditions for step (b) is well know n to the person skilled in the art. A person skilled in the art knows about the interaction of various extrusion parameters, such as the type of extruder as well as the specific process parameters, such as the screw speed, temperature, moisture content, raw material characteristics and die selection. During extrusion, the mixture obtained from step (a) is cooked under pressure, and finally expanded and formed at the extruder die. Preferably, a pellet is obtained after step (b).

[0093] In optional step (c), the extruded mixture obtained after step (b) is dried, once it has left the extrusion system. The drying step is necessary to remove the excess of water, and to return the product back to a shelf-stable moisture condition. For example, the extruded mixture may be dried in a crossflow7dryer, in which moisture and heat of the mixture is exchanged with a perpendicular airflow. After step (c) the moisture content of the extruder mixture is preferably from 7 to 12 wt. %.

[0094] In step (d) melting of the oil binding composition is conducted at a temperature between 50 to 90 °C, more preferably at a temperature between 60 to 80 °C.

[0095] In subsequent step (e), the liquid oil and the oil binding composition are blended and thus, a homogenous lipid melt comprising the liquid oil and the oil binding composition is obtained. The blend may be kept in a fully melted state in step (e) conducted at a temperature between 50 to 90 °C.

[0096] In step (f) the melted blend is added to the extruded mixture obtained in step (b) or (c). Thereupon, the melted blend is absorbed by the extruded mixture and thus, the melted lipids are incorporated in the extruded mixture. Adding the blend to the extruded mixture in step (I) may be conducted in vacuum. Preferably, the pressure in step (f) is between 300 to 50 mbar, more preferably between 100 to 50 mbar.

[0097] After step (f), the composition is cooled during step (g). This step is required to allow the liquid oil and the oil binding composition to reduce and prevent leakage of the liquid oil from the animal feed product. Moreover, the animal feed product can be prepared for packaging.PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]The selection of suitable cooling conditions for step (g) is well know n to the person skilled in the art, such as time and temperature gradient for cooling.

[0098] Alternatively, the process may comprise the following steps(i) Mixing the at least one animal feed ingredient with an aqueous liquid to provide a mixture,(ii) Extruding the mixture obtained in step (a),(iii) Optionally adjusted the moisture content of the extruded mixture,(iv) Adding the liquid oil to the extruded mixture obtained in step (ii) or (iii),(v) Melting the oil binding composition,(vi) Adding the melted oil binding composition to the extruded mixture obtained in step (iv), and(vii) Cooling the product obtained in step (vi).

[0099] During step (i), the at least one animal feed ingredient is preconditioned before extrusion step (ii). The preconditioning step is important to supply the extruder with a uniformly mixed and hydrated material, preferably mechanical stirring and adding saturated steam. Step (i) is preferably conduced at a temperature of 70 to 98 °C. The mixture obtained from step (i) preferably has a moisture content of from 20 to 35 wt.%.

[0100] Preferably, the aqueous liquid is water.

[0101] The selection of suitable extrusion conditions for step (ii) is well known to the person skilled in the art. A person skilled in the art knows about the interaction of various extrusion parameters, such as the type of extruder as well as the specific process parameters, such as the screw speed, temperature, moisture content, raw' material characteristics and die selection. During extrusion, the mixture obtained from step (i) is cooked under pressure, and finally expanded and formed at the extruder die. Preferably, a pellet is obtained after step (ii).

[0102] In optional step (iii), the extruded mixture obtained after step (ii) is dried, once it has left the extrusion system. The drying step is necessary' to remove the excess of water, and to return the product back to a shelf-stable moisture condition. For example, the extruded mixture may be dried in a crossflow dryer, in which moisture and heat of the mixture is exchanged with a perpendicular airflow. After step (iii) the moisture content of the extruder mixture is preferably from 7 to 12 wt. %.

[0103] In subsequent step (iv), the liquid oil is added to the extruded mixture obtained in step (ii) or (iii). Adding the liquid oil to the extruded mixture in step (iv) may be conducted inPT-2024-WO-PCT[2] vacuum. Preferably, the pressure in step (iv) is between 200 to 50 mbar, more preferably between 100 to 50 mbar.

[0104] In step (v) melting of the oil binding composition is conducted at a temperature between 50 to 90 °C, more preferably at a temperature between 60 to 80 °C.

[0105] In step (vi) the melted oil binding composition is added to the extruded mixture obtained in step (iv). Thereupon, the melted oil binding composition is absorbed by the extruded mixture and thus, the melted lipids are incorporated in the extruded mixture. Adding the blend to the extruded mixture in step (vii) may be conducted in vacuum. Preferably, the pressure in step (vi) is between 1000 to 200 mbar. more preferably between 800 to 500 mbar. Preferably, the pressure is step (vi) is higher than the pressure in step (iv).

[0106] After step (vi), the composition is cooled during step (vii). This step is required to allow the liquid oil and the oil binding composition to reduce and prevent leakage of the liquid oil from the animal feed product. Moreover, the animal feed product can be prepared for packaging. The selection of suitable cooling conditions for step (vii) is well known to the person skilled in the art, such as the temperature gradient for cooling.

[0107] Moreover, all features related to the oil binding composition as explained under the first aspect or the third aspect of the invention and the animal feed product as explained under the fourth aspect of the invention apply mutatis mutandis to the process for producing the animal feed product. For example, all features related to the amount and identity of the triglyceride composition, monoglyceride composition, fumed silica and animal feed ingredients, explained in the context of the first aspect and the fourth aspect of the invention are equally applicable to the process for producing the animal feed product.Use

[0108] In a sixth aspect the invention provides a use of the oil binding composition as defined in the first aspect of the invention and / or the oil binding composition obtainable by the process for preparing the oil binding composition as defined in the third aspect of the invention. As appreciated by the skilled person all features related to the oil binding composition as explained under the first aspect of the invention and the oil binding composition obtainable by the process for preparing the oil binding composition as explained under the third aspect of the invention apply mutatis mutandis to use of the oil binding composition as defined under the sixth aspect of the invention. For example, all features related to the amount and identity of the triglyceridePT-2024-WO-PCT[2] composition, monoglyceride composition and fumed silica, explained in the context of the first aspect and third aspect of the invention, are equally applicable the use of the oil binding composition.

[0109] Preferably, the use of the oil binding composition is provided in an animal feed product to reduce oil seepage.

[0110] In a seventh aspect the invention provides a use of the animal feed product as defined in the fourth aspect of the invention. As appreciated by the skilled person all features related to the animal feed product as explained under the fourth aspect of the invention apply mutatis mutandis to the use of animal feed product. For example, all features related to the amount and identity of the oil binding composition and animal feed ingredients, explained in the context of fourth aspect of the invention, are equally applicable to the use of the animal feed product.

[0111] Preferably, the use of the animal feed product is provided for feeding an animal, preferably a fish, more preferably a salmon.

[0112] Although certain aspects of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these specific aspects. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and / or to encompass equivalents. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. One or more of the objects of the invention are achieved by the appended claims.EXAMPLEExample 1: Oil binding composition

[0113] The oil binding composition of the invention is obtained by adding fumed silica (Aerosil®200F, 2 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition) to a mixture of the triglyceride composition (RS70CH9901 or RS70CH9904: fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil containing at least 91 wt.% saturated C18 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties and at least 6 wt.% of C 16 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties; 93 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition) and the monoglyceride composition (Grolux Aqua Dry Fat: fully hydrogenated monoglyceride of rapeseed oil containing at least 90 wt.% saturated C18 fall)' acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties; 5 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition).PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]

[0114] To evaluate the oil seepage properties of the oil binding composition, the oil binding composition is melted (70 °C) and blended at 70 °C with commercially available rapeseed oil at different weight ratios (see Table 1 below). The oil binding ingredient of the invention (EX1.7-1.9) reduces oil seepage at a lower weight ratio as compared to the other oil binding ingredients (EX 1 . 1 - 1 .6).

[0115] The method to evaluate the oil seepage properties of the oil binding compositions utilizes capillary tubes (10 cm), each having a cylindrical pore. The capillary tubes were filled with the oil blends (10 cm) containing the oil binding composition and commercially available rapeseed oil and cooled to 3.5 °C for 60 minutes. After cooling the capillary tubes were centrifuged (350 rpm at 100G) for 60 seconds and the amount of retained oil in the capillary tube was measured. For each example 5 capillary tubes were filled and subjected to this protocol (see FIG. 1). The reported fluid level is the average of the measurements for 5 centrifuged capillary tubes. An increased fluid level indicates enhanced anti-seepage properties of the oil binding composition (see also “CAPILLARY TEST FOR OIL LEAKAGE EVALUATION”, Markus Wied Dethlefsen, 5th International Congress “Food Technology, Quality and Safety - FoodTech 2024”; page 80 abstract book).PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]Table 1: oil seepage properties of the oil binding composition

Claims

PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]CLAIMS1. An oil binding composition for use in an animal feed composition comprising a triglyceride composition in amount from 85 to 99 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition, a monoglyceride composition in an amount from 1 to 10 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition, and- fumed silica in an amount from 0.1 to 5 wt .% relative to the oil binding composition.

2. Oil binding composition according to claim 1, wherein the triglyceride composition comprises from 30 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties, preferably from 40 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 50 to 95 wt.%.

3. Oil binding composition according to claim 1, wherein the triglyceride composition comprises from 70 to 99 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty acid moieties of the triglyceride composition.

4. Oil binding composition according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the triglyceride composition is in an amount from 85 to 98 wt.%, preferably 88 to 98 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition, more preferably an amount from 90 to 97 wt.%, most preferably an amount from 92 to 95 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition.

5. Oil binding composition according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the monoglyceride composition comprises from 30 to 98 wt.% of saturated Cl 8 fatty acid moieties relative to the total fatty7acid moieties, preferably from 40 to 96 wt.%, more preferably from 50 to 95 wt.%.

6. Oil binding composition according to any one of claims 1 -5, wherein the monoglyceride composition is in an amount from 2 to 8 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition, preferably an amount from 3 to 7 wt.%, more preferably an amount from 4 to 6 wt.% relative to the oil binding composition.PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]7. Oil binding composition according to any one of the claims 1-6, wherein the fumed silica is in an amount from 0.5 to 4 wt.%, more preferably from 1 to 3 wt.%, most preferably from 1.5 to 3 wt.%, relative to the oil binding composition.

8. Oil binding composition according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the triglyceride composition and / or the monoglyceride composition is derived from a fully hydrogenated vegetable oil or fat; preferably selected from the group consisting of fully hydrogenated sunflower oil, fully hydrogenated camelina oil. fully hydrogenated olive oil, fully hydrogenated com oil, fully hydrogenated sesame oil, fully hydrogenated shea fat, fully hydrogenated lineseed oil, fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated high-erucic rapeseed oil, fully hydrogenated cotton seed oil, fully hydrogenated ground nut oil, fully hydrogenated soy bean oil, and any combination thereof; more preferably selected from fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil. fully hydrogenated sunflower oil, fully hydrogenated soy bean oil, fully hydrogenated cottonseed oil and any combination thereof, most preferably the vegetable oil is fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil.

9. A process for preparing the oil binding composition according to any one of claims 1-8 comprising adding the fumed silica as defined in any one of claims 1-8 to a mixture of the triglyceride composition as defined in any one of claims 1-8 and the monoglyceride composition as defined in any one of claims 1-8.

10. An animal feed product comprising at least one animal feed ingredient and the oil binding composition according to any one of claims 1-8 in an amount from 0.01 to 10 wt.% relative to the animal feed product, more preferably from 0.02 to 8 wt.%, most preferably from 0.05 to 5 wt.%.

11. Animal feed product according to claim 10 comprising a total lipid content between 20 and 50 wt.% relative to the animal feed composition.

12. Animal feed product according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the liquid oil is a vegetable oil, preferably selected from the group consisting of sunflower oil, safflower oil. canola oil, rapeseed oil, rice bran oil, olive oil, soybean oil, com oil, cotton oil, sesame seed oil, palm oil or algae oil; or an animal oil, such as fish oil; or any combination thereof.PT-2024-WO-PCT[2]13. Animal feed product according to any one of claims 10-12, wherein the product is an aquafeed product, preferably a fish feed product, more preferably a salmon feed product.

14. Animal feed product according to claim 13, wherein the product is in the form of a pellet.

15. Use of the oil binding composition according to any one of claims 1-8 in an animal feed product to reduce oil seepage.

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