Cottonseed meal is limited in young ruminants and monogastrics because it contains which compound?

Cottonseed meal is limited in young ruminants and monogastrics because it contains which compound?

• A. Gossypol
• B. Aflatoxin
• C. Lectin
• D. Cyanide

Answer: (A)

Gossypol is the toxic factor in cottonseed that limits its use in young ruminants and nonruminants. This polyphenolic pigment can cause cardiotoxic effects and anemia, and young animals or pigs with immature detox systems absorb more gossypol and are more sensitive. In mature ruminants, rumen microbes can partially detoxify gossypol, increasing tolerance, but monogastrics lack that capability. Other options aren’t the inherent reason cottonseed meal is restricted: aflatoxin would be a contamination risk, while lectin and cyanide are not characteristic toxins of cottonseed meal. The main issue is the presence of gossypol.

Gossypol is the toxic factor in cottonseed that limits its use in young ruminants and nonruminants. This polyphenolic pigment can cause cardiotoxic effects and anemia, and young animals or pigs with immature detox systems absorb more gossypol and are more sensitive. In mature ruminants, rumen microbes can partially detoxify gossypol, increasing tolerance, but monogastrics lack that capability. Other options aren’t the inherent reason cottonseed meal is restricted: aflatoxin would be a contamination risk, while lectin and cyanide are not characteristic toxins of cottonseed meal. The main issue is the presence of gossypol.