What are nutraceuticals in the context of animal health?

Nutraceuticals refer to foods or dietary supplements that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition. They are derived from food sources and can include functional foods, dietary supplements, and fortified foods that contain bioactive compounds. These substances can help promote health and prevent disease, making them valuable in veterinary medicine for enhancing animal well-being.

In animal health, nutraceuticals can include ingredients that support joint health, improve immune function, or aid in the management of various diseases. They may contain vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, or other dietary components scientifically recognized for their health-enhancing properties.

This definition distinguishes nutraceuticals from purely medicinal treatments, organic food options, and processed foods high in additives, as those do not encapsulate the comprehensive role that nutraceuticals play in enhancing health and preventing illnesses in animals.