What do laboratory mice eat? - briefly
Laboratory mice receive a nutritionally balanced pelleted chow («pelleted chow») formulated to provide protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Supplemental provisions such as sterile water, occasional fresh produce, or specialized high‑fat or amino‑acid formulas are added for particular experimental requirements.
What do laboratory mice eat? - in detail
Laboratory rodents receive a nutritionally balanced diet formulated to meet the requirements of growth, reproduction, and experimental consistency. The primary component is a pelleted or extruded chow containing precise proportions of macronutrients and micronutrients.
Key elements of the standard rodent diet:
- Protein: 14–20 % of the formulation, derived from casein, soy, or wheat gluten, providing essential amino acids.
- Carbohydrates: 45–55 % of the diet, supplied by corn starch, wheat flour, and sucrose, serving as the main energy source.
- Fat: 4–7 % of the diet, typically from soybean oil or lard, delivering essential fatty acids and additional calories.
- Fiber: 5–7 % of the diet, sourced from cellulose or oat fiber, supporting gastrointestinal health.
- Vitamins and minerals: a defined premix ensures adequate levels of vitamin A, D3, E, K, B‑complex, and trace elements such as zinc, iron, and selenium.
- Antioxidants and preservatives: added in minimal amounts to maintain feed stability without affecting experimental outcomes.
Water is provided ad libitum, often via automated dispensers that deliver filtered, deionized, or tap water depending on the study’s requirements. Some protocols incorporate supplemental solutions, such as glucose, sucrose, or electrolyte mixtures, to address specific metabolic investigations.
Specialized diets are employed when particular physiological parameters must be controlled:
- High‑fat diets (45–60 % calories from fat) for obesity or metabolic syndrome models.
- Low‑protein or amino‑acid‑defined diets for studies of nutrient restriction or protein metabolism.
- Purified diets lacking phytoestrogens when hormonal influences could confound results.
- Antibiotic‑supplemented feeds to reduce microbial load in germ‑free or gnotobiotic experiments.
Feed is stored in airtight containers at controlled temperature and humidity to prevent spoilage and nutrient degradation. Regular monitoring of feed intake, body weight, and health status ensures that dietary provisions remain consistent throughout the experimental period.