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Hydrolyzed feather meal as a protein source for growing calves
F K Goedeken1, T J Klopfenstein, R A Stock
1Dept. of Anim. Sci., University of Nebraska, Lincoln 68583-0908.
Journal of Animal Science
|September 1, 1990
Summary
Hydrolyzed feather meal (Fth) is a digestible, high-escape protein source for growing ruminants. Studies show Fth has comparable protein value and efficiency to other protein meals in ruminant diets.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Ruminant Nutrition
- Protein Metabolism
Background:
- Determining the nutritional value of alternative protein sources is crucial for sustainable livestock production.
- Hydrolyzed feather meal (Fth) offers a potential protein supplement for ruminants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the protein value of hydrolyzed feather meal (Fth) for growing ruminants.
- To compare Fth with conventional protein sources like blood meal (BM), corn gluten meal (CGM), and soybean meal (SBM).
Main Methods:
- In situ studies using Dacron bags to estimate ruminal escape protein.
- Apparent protein digestion trials with lambs.
- Growth trials with crossbred steers supplemented with various protein sources.
Main Results:
- Fth exhibited a high escape protein value (69.1%), less than BM and CGM but greater than SBM.
- Apparent protein digestion and amino acid profiles remained similar across diets.
- Protein efficiency in growth trials was comparable between Fth and BM, and various Fth combinations.
Conclusions:
- Hydrolyzed feather meal (Fth) is a digestible, high-escape protein source suitable for growing ruminant diets.
- Fth can be effectively utilized as a protein supplement, alone or in combination with other sources.