Utilization of Composite Mango (Mangifera indica) Fruit Reject Meal in Starter Broiler Chicks Feeding
K. T. Orayaga *
Department of Animal Nutrition, University of Agriculture, PMB 2373, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.
O. I. A. Oluremi
Department of Animal Nutrition, University of Agriculture, PMB 2373, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.
C. D. Tuleun
Department of Animal Nutrition, University of Agriculture, PMB 2373, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.
S. N. Carew
Department of Animal Production, University of Agriculture, PMB 2373, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: To determine macro chemical composition of mango (Mangifera indica) fruit reject meal (MFRM) and its effects on the performance of starter broiler chicks.
Methodology: The research was carried out at the Poultry house of the Livestock Unit, Teaching and Research Farm, University of Agriculture Makurdi, within (28 days) September, 2013. Day-old broiler chicks numbering 200, were grouped into five (5) with each group replicated four times and assigned to diets containing 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% mango fruit reject meal (MFRM) in completely randomized design, and fed for 28 days.
Results: MFRM contained low CP (3.24%). Performance parameters such as daily feed intake and weight gain were significantly reduced (P < .05) from 15% MFRM (35.40 g/day and 15.82 g/day) upward but comparable with control (36.94 g/day and 18.46 g/day) up to 10% MFRM (36.31 g/day and 17.81 g/day) in diets. Cost per kg weight gain ($1.05 – $1.13) was not significantly affected (P > .05) among treatment groups.
Conclusion: It was concluded that MFRM has low protein; therefore it is an energy feedstuff and 10% MFRM in broiler chicks’ diet was safe and supported growth performance.
Keywords: Chemical composition, economics, performance, sun dried, weight gain