Proximate composition and feeding value of ensiled blend of cassava root meal and wet brewers’ grains in starter broiler diets

Abstract

The proximate composition and feeding value of ensiled blend of peeled cassava root meal and wet brewer’s grain in starter broilers diets were evaluated. Peeled cassava root meal and wet brewers’ grain were mixed together in a ratio of 1.0:1.5, divided into 3 parts and ensiled for 0, 7 and 14days, respectively. The ensiled products were then sun dried and their proximate and gross energy values determined. Four experimental broiler starter diets were formulated such that diet 1(control) contained 100% maize. Diets 2, 3 and 4 contained 50% of the 0, 7 and 14days ensiled products as replacement for maize, respectively. One hundred and twenty (120) day old broiler chicks divided into 12 groups were randomly assigned to each of the four experimental diets in a completely randomized design, replicated three times. Feed and water were offered to the birds’ ad-libitum. The 14 days ensiled product had higher crude protein, ether extract, crude fibre, ash and gross energy values than the 7days ensiled product. Body weight gain and feed conversion values were comparable with those of the control. Feed intake, cost of feed consumed and feed cost/ kg weight gain of the control birds were significantly (p<0.05) higher than the other treatment groups. It is concluded that mixing peel cassava root meal and wet brewers’ grain before sun drying or ensiling and sun drying, enhanced the protein content, and reduced the dustiness in the feed and cost of production irrespective of the period of ensilage. The inclusion of 50% of the ensiled products should be considered as cost effective feedstuff in broiler ration formulation.