# Mineral–Vitamin Complexes in Sheep Nutrition: Patent Analysis and Functional Evaluation for Pregnant Ewes and Lambs

## TL;DR

This study examines mineral-vitamin complexes in sheep feed to improve maternal and offspring health during pregnancy and early development.

## Contribution

The paper provides a novel patent analysis and functional evaluation of mineral-vitamin complexes for pregnant ewes and lambs.

## Key findings

- Calcium, selenium, iron, and vitamins A, D, and E are frequently included in mineral-vitamin complexes for sheep.
- Zinc and selenium support antioxidant enzymes, while vitamins A and D regulate cellular processes and mineral metabolism.
- Functional additives enhance mineral bioavailability and metabolic adaptation in pregnant ewes and lambs.

## Abstract

Natural pasture, the primary feed source in sheep production, often provides insufficient levels of essential minerals and vitamins required for proper metabolic regulation during pregnancy and early development. This study aimed to analyze patent developments of mineral and vitamin complexes (MVCs) for pregnant ewes and lambs and to evaluate the biochemical and molecular relevance of their components based on scientific evidence. A search of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) database using the keywords “vitamins for sheep” and “minerals for sheep” identified 120 patents related to sheep feed additives, including 23 specifically formulated for pregnant ewes and lambs. Comparative analysis revealed that calcium, selenium, iron, copper, cobalt, sodium, manganese, zinc, and vitamins A, D, and E were the most frequently included components. These micronutrients play critical roles in enzymatic activity, regulation of gene expression, antioxidant defense systems, and mineral homeostasis. In particular, zinc and selenium function as structural and catalytic cofactors for antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, while vitamins A and D regulate cellular differentiation and calcium–phosphorus metabolism through transcriptional control mechanisms. Additionally, functional additives, including amino acids and plant-derived bioactive compounds, contribute to improved mineral bioavailability and modulation of metabolic pathways. The analyzed formulations demonstrate a consistent focus on correcting mineral deficiencies, enhancing antioxidant protection, and supporting metabolic adaptation during pregnancy and early postnatal development. Overall, the findings indicate that modern MVCs are rationally formulated to improve mineral utilization, physiological stability, and reproductive outcomes, highlighting their critical role in optimizing maternal health and offspring viability in sheep production systems.