Cashew nut meal as feed supplement for lambs

• Main Authors: J.B. Costa, M.C.P. Rogério, M.S.S. Carneiro, L.C. Muniz, E.P. Brasil, A.R. Araújo, R.M. Fontenele, N.J.M. Batista
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 2021-07-01
• Series: Animal
• Subjects: By-product; Energetic feed; Lipids; Nitrogen; Sheep
• Online Access: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1751731121000458

Cashew nut meal (CNM) is widely used in tropical countries due to the high protein and energy levels; therefore, it has potential to be an alternative feed supplementation for livestock. Our objective was to evaluate the use of CNM as feed supplement for lambs. Twenty-four lambs were divided into a randomized block design with four treatments, starting with a diet control of Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp.) hay and CNM as a supplement at three different levels representing 6, 12, and 18% of the total mixed ration (TMR) provided. There were evaluated intake (g/day and g/kgBW0.75); the digestibility of DM and nutrients; nitrogen balance; and ingestive behavior. The CP and ether extract (EE) intake (g/day) as well as DM, and organic matter (OM) intake (g/kgBW0.75) were influenced by supplementation with CNM in a positive linear increase (P < 0.05). The digestibility of DM, OM and NDF increased according to the levels of CNM up to 12% and markedly decreased at the higher level (P < 0.05). The EE and CP digestibility raised according to the CNM levels (P < 0.05) and consequently increased the nitrogen retention resulting in a positive nitrogen balance. The protein and energetic characteristics of CNM show that it can be used as an alternative supplementation to low-quality forages for lambs. However, its use as a single supplement ingredient above 7% on total mixed ration may reduce fiber digestibility.