A sustainable feed resource for dairy buffaloes, milk yield and quality

Broiler litter (BL) is available in huge amounts in Egypt. The continuous production of such material makes it a sustainable ingredient resource if recycled properly. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of including BL in rations for lactating buffaloes on their milk production and quality. Nine lactating buffaloes were randomly selected just after parturition and divided into three groups of three animals each. Three different diets were formulated to arrange 3X3 Latin Square design with three periods of a month each. Diets were 40% roughage and 60% concentrates. Broiler litter replaced 10%, 20%, and 30% of total nitrogen requirements. Dry matter intakes (h(-1).d(-1), Kg) was not influenced as the BL level increased. The second animal group showed higher (P<0.05) DMI than the other groups. Values of DMI (Kg BW0.075, h(-1).d(-1)) were similar for both treatment levels and animal group variations. Milk yield (h(-1).d(-1), Kg) was similar among BL levels, yet first animal group had the lowest (3.6 Kg, h(-1).d(-1)) milk production. Fat corrected milk followed the same trend. Milk fat was higher for 10% BL level and second animal group. Milk protein was similar among different levels and buffalo groups. Mineral element contents of both buffaloes' milk and serum showed no abnormal values. It is concluded that including BL in rations for lactating animals may represent a source of nitrogen. Broiler litter may be a sustainable feed resource because it did not affect animal performance negatively and it is cheap and available in huge amounts.