Chemical Composition and Comprehensive Strength of Urea Molasses Blocks Supplements Produced Using Different Drying Methods and Binding Agents

J. Yerima; H. I. Shitu; M. Gure; H. B. Galadima; D. J. U. Kalla

J. Yerima Department of Animal science, Faculty of Agriculture University of Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069 Maiduguri Borno State, Nigeria
H. I. Shitu Department of Animal Health and Production Yobe State College of Agriculture, Gujba P.M.B 1104 Damaturu Yobe State Nigeria
M. Gure Department of Animal Production, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi P.M.B. 0248 Bauchi State Nigeria
H. B. Galadima Department of Animal Health and Production Yobe State College of Agriculture, Gujba P.M.B 1104 Damaturu Yobe State Nigeria
D. J. U. Kalla Department of Animal Production, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi P.M.B. 0248 Bauchi State Nigeria

Keywords: Cement, Multi-nutrient, Non-protein nitrogen, Supplementation

Abstract

The study was designed to evaluate the chemical composition and comprehensive strength of
urea molasses blocks produced using different binding agents, fibre sources and drying
methods. Different blocks were produced and dried for seven (7) days under the shade and sun.
Dry matter content was higher (92.7%) in sun dried rice bran with cement (SRWC) and lowest
(88.0%) in shade dried wheat offal with cement (SHWWC). Organic matter was higher (90.1%)
in SRWC and lowest 82.7% in shade dried wheat offal with termite mud (SHWWM). Sun drying
method reduced crude protein up to 46.92%. Ash content was highest (5.98%) in SHWWM and
lowest (2.68%) in SRWC. Neutral detergent and acid detergent fibre (NDF and ADF) were
higher 25.6% and 16.6% in SRWC and least 20.2% and 12.1% in SHWWM respectively. In
comprehensive strength, sun dried rice bran with termite mud (SRWM) and SRWC had the
highest strength compared to SHWWM and SHWWC. Sun drying method reduced crude protein
content and significantly increased comprehensive strength. Blocks with rice bran contained
higher NDF and ADF values. Using any of the binding agents, Shade drying is recommended
as the best drying method.

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