The Feeding Value of Cassava Meal For Broiler Chicken

Abstract

Up to 50% level of maize substitution with cassava did not affect (P>0.05) final body weights, feed efficiently and carcass yield of chickens. Levels of substitution higher than 50% reduced (P:E;0.05) growth rate and feed efficiency. Feed consumption, dressing percentage and liver weights were not affected (P>0.05) by level of maize substitution with cassava in the diet. Feed costs were correspondingly reduced with increasing level of cassava in the diet. Gross profit margins increased with increasing level of cassava in the diet up to 50% level of substitution. At the 75 and 100% replacements of maize with cassava, gross profit margins were still higher than those obtained at the 25%, levels of cassava substitution. It is concluded that nutritionally, cassava can be used to replace up to 50% of maize in broiler diet without impairing performance. However, higher levels, 75 and 100% replacements still produce high economic returns.