Nutrient characterization of processed cassava peels and dietary sludge supplementation on pig performance

Abstract

The study was carried out to evaluate nutrient characterization of processed cassava peels and dietary sludge supplementation on pig performance. A total of twenty-five (25) crossbred weaner pigs weighing averagely 8.5±2.5 kg were used. They were allotted into five treatments groups with three replicates in a completely randomized design. These pigs were fed twice daily, water and salt lick supplied ad libitum. The treatment diets consist of cassava peels and dietary sludge supplementation at 0% (controlled), 15%, 35%, 65% and 85% replacement of maize. Data on live weight, weight gain on a weekly basis, feed intake, body length, heart girth and height at withers were collected to determine the effect of processed cassava peel meal supplemented with dietary sludge on growth performance and economic evaluation of pigs. The data collected were subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and significantly different means were separated using the multiple range test. Results revealed that there was a significant (p<0.05) difference on all the growth performance parameters measured as well as the economic evaluation of the feed. It can be concluded that dietary sludge mixed with processed cassava peel meal has a significant effect on the growth performance of pigs. It is therefore recommended that pig farmers should use processed cassava peel meal supplemented with dietary sludge feeds on pigs at 85% as it produces higher effects on the daily feed intake of pigs.