Partial replacement of dietary Maize with fermented cassava peel meal supplemented with enzyme complex influences growing Turkey performance and blood profile

Abstract

Unsustainable maize supply and high cost necessitate investigation into alternative energy sources in turkey diets. This study examined effects of fermented cassava peel meal (FCPM) as a partial substitute for maize, on growth performance, haematology, and serum biochemistry of growing turkeys fed diets supplemented with an enzyme complex (protease, amylase, xylanase, cellulose, β-glucanase, and lipase). The basal diet contained 49% of maize. Based on it, the maize was replaced with FCPM at 0 (CON), 10% (FCPM10), 20% (FCPM20), 30% (FCPM30), or 40% (FCPM40) respectively. 120 growing British United Turkeys, 8 weeks old mixed sex, averaging 1942.62±16.6 g were randomly assigned to the five dietary treatments, 4 replicates groups of 6 turkeys each in a completely randomized design over a 28-day feeding trial. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and polynomial contrast: linear (L) and quadratic (Q). Results showed that enzyme-supplemented FCPM diets increased final weight (L.Q: P<0.05), feed intake and weight gain (L: P < 0.05). Feed:gain improved (P < 0.05) at 10, 20 and 30 FCPM groups compared with the control. The cost of feed consumed and cost/kg gain reduced (L: P<0.05) with increasing dietary FCPM. Increased levels of white blood cells (L: P < 0.05) and decreased eosinophils (L: P<0.05) were detected with higher inclusion levels (> 20%) of FCPM fed turkeys. Other haematological indices examined revealed no significant difference (L.Q: P > 0.05) across all FCPM groups. There was reduction in total protein and cholesterol (L: P < 0.05) with higher inclusion of FCPM, while other serum indices were not significant (P > 0.05). The replacement of up to 40% dietary maize supplemented with enzyme improved growth performance, reduced cost of production without adverse effect on blood indices of growing turkeys.