EFFECT OF FICUS EXASPERATA AS FEED ON MEAT QUALITY OF RABBITS

Abstract

Edge row plants are common trees used as wind breakers in homesteads and farms. In recent times, their uses have been reported as feed for ruminants. However, the use of these plants has not been properly reported for rabbits. Therefore, this study was carried out to investigate the effect of Ficus exasperata as an additive on the quality of rabbits’ meats. All groups were fed on basal diet with T1, T2, T3, and T4 supplemented with 0, 3, 6, and 9 % levels of F. exasperata leaf meal respectively in a completely randomized design. A total of 36 rabbits (707.5±0.20 g) were used for the study which lasted 12 weeks. A total of 12 rabbits, one from each replicate was slaughtered and the biceps femoris muscle was excised for proximate and meat quality assessment. Results revealed a significant (P<0.05) influence of F. exasperata in the ash, fat, and crude protein contents of the meat. Mineral and protein was highest with supplementation of the leaf meal while a corresponding reduction in fat was observed across the treatments. Although meat pH was not significantly (P>0.05) affected by F. exasperata, water holding capacity as well as cooking loss in the meat were significantly (P<0.05) better in groups receiving different supplemental levels of F. exasperata. Juiciness and overall acceptability of the meat were influenced significantly (P<0.05) by the additive. It was concluded that up to 9 % of Ficus exasperata can be added to the diets of rabbits for improved meat quality.