The effect of ensiled mixed tomato and apple pomace on Holstein dairy cow

Abstract

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of replacing alfalfa hay with ensiled mixed tomato and apple pomace (EMTAP) on ruminal fermentation, blood metabolites, chewing activity and apparent digestibility of diets. Six multiparous mid-lactating Holstein dairy cows were used in 3×3 Latin square design. The animals were fed with a control (0%EMTAP) and two different levels of EMTAP (15, 30%) containing diets. Results showed significant differences between treatments. The substitution of EMTAP in dairy cow’s diet was associated with a reduction of chewing activity, better DM and OM digestibility and higher blood metabolites concentration. Feeding EMTAP resulted in a significant higher concentration of acetic, propionic acids, and total volatile fatty acids in rumen, and lower rumen pH. It was concluded that, EMTAP might efficiently comprise up to 30% of the diets. The nutritive value of tomato and apple pomace could be improved when they are used together (50:50) in dairy cows diet.