Why is autoclave feed fortified?

The process of autoclaving involves subjecting feed to high temperatures and pressures to sterilize it, which can lead to the loss of certain nutrients, especially heat-sensitive vitamins and amino acids. Fortifying autoclaved feed is essential because it helps to replace these crucial nutrients that may have been diminished due to the sterilization process. This ensures that the animals receiving the feed still receive adequate nutrition to support their health and well-being. By taking this preventive measure, animal care technicians can maintain the quality of the diet during experiments or in laboratory settings, where proper nutrition is vital for accurate research outcomes.