Biofuel by-product can replace partially corn in supplement for Angus × Nellore heifers: productive performance and meat characteristics

AbstractThe aim of this is study was to test the hypothesis that corn can be partially replaced by crude glycerin (at a level of 50%) without affecting performance, ingestive behavior, ruminal parameters, meat composition, and fatty acids profile on the meat of heifers. Sixty-four intact plus four rumen cannulated Angus × Nellore heifers (359.0 ± 12.15 kg BW) were used. The cannulated animals received the same diets as the intact ones to determine the ruminal N-NH3 concentration, pH, and chewing activity weekly. All heifers were maintained inBrachiaria brizantha pasture and supplemented with a concentrate containing corn, soybean meal, urea, premixed minerals, and glycerin partially replacing corn. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with two treatments (corn ground or glycerin + corn ground). The inclusion of crude glycerin (high fat) decreased nutrients intake and ruminal N-NH3 concentration in the rumen but increased lipid intake. Inclusion of glycerin had no effect (P> 0.05) on ruminal pH, daily gain, performance, time spent eating, rumination, idling, or water intake. The moisture, ash, and protein contents of meat were not affected (P> 0.05) by crude glycerin intake. Crude glycerin increased saturated fatty acids (C14:0, C16:0, and C18:0) and decreased unsaturated fatty acids (C18:2n6c and C20:1) in meat. Despite the reduction in nutrient intake, we recommend crude glycerin to replace corn in concentrate because glycerin did not impair the perf...
Source: Tropical Animal Health and Production - Category: Veterinary Research Source Type: research