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Child undernutrition persists in Cambodia despite recent progress. As Cambodia undergoes a shift in dietary consumption that coincides with economic, demographic, and epidemiologic changes, there is risk of ultra-processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages displacing nutrient-dense foods during the critical period of infant growth in the first 24 months. The aim of this study was to assess the introduction and intake of foods of low nutritional value and sugar-sweetened beverages and their association with undernutrition among children 24 months of age in rural and semi-urban Cambodia. Cross-sectional analyses of a 24-h dietary recall from a sample (n = 377) of 24-month-olds found that the majority of infants had been introduced to packaged salty snacks and sweets by 12 months of age and to sugar-sweetened beverages by 15 months. By 24 months of age, 78% of children had consumed foods of low nutritional value and 57% consumed a sugar-sweetened beverage on the previous day. Multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated that infant intake of a flavored sugary drink on the previous day was associated with over two times the odds of both stunting and wasting, and consumption of packaged sweets on the previous day was associated with over two times the odds of wasting, but no association was found with stunting. These findings underscore the need to improve educational and policy interventions to support healthy feeding practices for infants and young children.

Integrating forage legumes into grasslands offers numerous ecosystem services. However, the management of grass‐legume pastures is challenging because the interaction between the defoliation frequency and severity may affect the legume persistence and forage intake by grazing animals. This 2‐year study evaluated the most effective grazing intensity to increase forage intake while maintaining a balanced legume proportion in tropical pastures consisting of Brachiaria brizantha and Arachis pintoi. Three treatments (grazing intensities) were assessed: severe, moderate, and low, corresponding to stubble heights of 10, 15, and 20 cm, respectively, and a pre‐grazing height of 25 cm. Two purebred Tabapua heifers were used for each treatment, and additional put‐and‐take animals were introduced, as required. Canopy structure, grazing behaviour, nutritive value, and forage intake were evaluated. The legume proportion in herbage mass remained consistent across all intensities, averaging 35% pre‐ and 32% post‐grazing. The grazing duration remained consistent across treatments on the first and third days, with an average grazing time of 390 and 440 min, respectively. Under post‐grazing conditions, low‐intensity grazing had a 52% greater intake rate than severe‐intensity grazing, which was attributed to a greater biting rate (37.9 bites/min) and bite weight (0.9 g DM/bite). Moderate grazing intensity (stubble height of ~15 cm associated with a pre‐grazing height of ~25 cm) is recommended to manage a mixture of B. brizantha and A. pintoi when the objective is to couple high forage intake with a balanced legume proportion in the pasture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With rising obesity rates in Western societies, analyzing changes in dietary patterns is paramount. While nutritional surveys have been informative, traditional cookbooks have historically shed light on national cuisines and its changes. Despite the growing popularity of online platforms for food information, cookbooks might still reflect prevalent dietary trends and the diets people follow. This study examined (1) the changes in nutritional content and food group usage in the best-selling cookbooks from 2008 to 2018, and (2) the correlation between the food groups in these cookbooks and dietary patterns (inferred from household purchases) over the same timeframe. Methods: An exploratory ecological study was conducted on 20 main course recipes of each of the five best-selling cookbooks in Flanders annually between 2008 and 2018. Trends in macronutrients and food group usage in these recipes were analyzed using generalized linear models. Additionally, these trends were compared to household purchase data in Flanders using correlation matrices. Results: Our results reveal a rising trend towards the use of plant-based ingredients and meat alternatives in cookbooks over the period 2008–2018. There was an increase in the usage of vegetables, nuts & seeds, and cheese. Conversely, there was a decline in the usage of meat, sugar & sweeteners, alcohol, and dairy (all p-values < 0.05). In terms of macronutrient content, there was an upswing in carbohydrate, fibre, and sugar levels, while the total fat content showed a decrease (all p-values < 0.05). The levels of protein and saturated fat remained consistent over time. Notably, shifts in plant-based and animal-based food group preferences in popular cookbook recipes align with the trends seen in actual household purchases of these food groups (all p-values < 0.05). Conclusion: These findings indicate that cookbook content evolves over time, potentially reflecting shifts in population dietary patterns. Future research is needed to determine (Buisman ME, Jonkman J. Dietary trends from 1950 to 2010: a Dutch cookbook analysis. J Nutr Sci [Internet]. 2019 ed [cited 2022 Apr 19];8. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-nutritional-science/article/dietary-trends-from-1950-to-2010-a-dutch-cookbook-analysis/AB281ADE0F09FF8F518B8AC4A2A5BEA8#supplementary-materials) any causative link between cookbooks and dietary habits, and (Ashwell M, Barlow S, Gibson S, Harris C. National Diet and Nutrition Surveys: the British experience. Public Health Nutr. 2006;9(4):523–30.) the potential for cookbooks to aid in health promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how forage can be utilized in the rumen is important for optimizing system efficiency. We aimed to evaluate the ruminal fermentation parameters and methane (CH4) production of Marandu palisadegrass [Brachiaria (syn. Urochloa) brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) R. D. Webster] growing in monoculture or in integrated systems. The experiment was conducted over 3 years to evaluate four systems [livestock (L), livestock‐forestry (LF), crop‐livestock (CL), and crop‐livestock‐forestry (CLF)] during the dry and rainy seasons. In the dry season, palisadegrass in CLF presented the greater crude protein (CP) and the lesser neutral detergent fibre (NDF) concentrations. The greatest gas volume was produced in L, while LF and CL reduced CH4 production compared to L. The greatest ammoniacal‐nitrogen concentration, propionate and valeric acid proportions, and degradability of NDF were in CLF. In the rainy season, palisadegrass in LF and CLF presented the greater CP concentration and the lesser CH4 production. Integration of crop and forestry components in a forage‐based livestock system affected ruminal fermentation parameters of Marandu palisadegrass, consequently, reducing CH4 production. In addition, the inclusion of a forestry component enhanced forage CP concentration. Integrated systems can improve ruminal fermentation, supporting sustainable livestock production and optimizing forage utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analyzed Melia dubia leaf fodder proximate and cell wall composition to ascertain provenance and seasonal variations in Satpura and northern tip of Western Ghats (or Sahyadri) ranges falling in Gujarat, India. The study revealed significant variation (P ≤ 0.05) in proximate [moisture content (MC), dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), ether extract (EE), organic matter (OM), total ash (TA), acid insoluble ash (AIA) and nitrogen free extract (NFE)] and cell wall attributes [neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), hemicellulose and cellulose content] among eight provenances in the winter and summer seasons. The MC, DM, CP, CF, EE, OM, TA and NFE ranged from 68.6–72.2%; 27.8–31.5%, 10.2–12.1%, 16.3–18.7%, 2.5–3.3%, 85.4–88.7%, 11.3–14.6% and 55.0–58.4%, respectively among eight provenances. DM, CP, CF, EE and OM (29.7%, 12.0%, 18.6%, 3.3% and 87.6%, respectively) were significantly higher in the summer. In contrast, MC, TA, AIA and NFE (70.9%, 13.6%, 1.0% and 58.4%, respectively) were significantly higher in the winter season. NDF, ADF, ADL, hemicellulose and cellulose content ranged from 32.2–38.5%, 23.8–30.2%, 11.8–20.8%, 6.9–9.7% and 9.3–12.3%, respectively among provenances. Further, M. dubia leaf cell wall composition varied significantly between winter and summer seasons. NDF, ADF, ADL and hemicellulose (36.2%, 27.6%, 16.9% and 8.7%, respectively) were higher during the summer season (S2); conversely, the cellulose content was higher (11.2%) in the winter season. Keeping in view the average proximate and fiber composition levels, M. dubia leaf fodder falls within the energy-rich fodder stuff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scarcity of high-quality forage has a significant influence on the productivity and profitability of livestock. Addressing this concern, an investigation was undertaken to assess the effects of distinct Italian ryegrass genotypes, namely, Punjab ryegrass-1, Kashmir collection, and Makhan grass, in conjunction with varying seeding ratios of Italian ryegrass to Egyptian clover. The seeding ratios considered were 100:0 (Italian ryegrass to Egyptian clover), 75:25, 50:50, and 25:75. All possible combinations of Italian ryegrass and Egyptian clover with seeding ratios were set up in a randomized complete block design and replicated thrice. Co-cultivating Italian ryegrass and Egyptian clover at a 75:25 seeding ratio yields the best yield benefit, as determined by the land equivalent ratio. It is noteworthy that in this configuration, real yield loss is higher for Egyptian clover and for Italian ryegrass when the seeding ratio is 25:75. The higher competitiveness of Italian ryegrass in comparison to Egyptian clover is highlighted by the competitive ratio. Notably, the nutritive parameter, crude protein yield, was significantly higher in the Makhan grass-based 50:50 and 75:25 seeding ratio. Results of the study ascertained the compatibility of grass-legume co-cultivation with significantly higher quantity and quality forage harvested under mixed cropping systems whereas Makhan grass as the superior and dominant genotype in comparison to Kashmir collection. The outcomes of this study revealed that the 100:0 seeding ratio, coupled with the Makhan grass genotype, exhibited superior performance in terms of cumulative forage harvest, dry matter accumulation, net returns, and benefit-cost ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study evaluated the effect of flaxseed meal degraded by a protease, Lactobacillus plantarum, or both on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and health status of broilers. Methods: There were four diets containing flaxseed meals in its non-degraded form (control, CON), degraded with 3,000 U/kg of protease (enzymatic, ELM), 1.0x109 CFU/kg of Lactobacillus plantarum (fermented, FLM), or both (dual-degraded, DLM). Each form of flaxseed meals was added at 15% of diet. A total of 480 yellow-feathered broilers at 22 d of age were distributed into 4 groups with 6 replicates of 20 chickens each. The feeding trial lasted for 42 d. Growth performance, apparent fecal digestibility (dry matter, energy, crude protein, and ash), and serum immunoglobins and antioxidases were determined at 42 and 63 d of age. Results: Results showed that ELM, FLM, and DLM increased (p<0.001) the contents of peptides and decreased (p<0.001) cyanogenic glycosides, compared to CON. The diets with degraded flaxseed meals increased (p<0.05) feed intake and body weight gain throughout the feeding trial, and the digestibility of energy, crude protein, and ash at the end of feeding trial. Furthermore, all degraded groups enhanced (p<0.05) broiler health status by increasing serum immunoglobulins A and G. Additinally, DLM showed more pronounced effects (p<0.05) on these parameters than ELM or FLM. Conclusion: Flaxseed meals degraded by enzymolysis, fermentation, or both had improved nutrition and application in broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Data are lacking on the effects of selected endophytes of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) on ryegrass persistence. Aim: We aimed to determine the impact of Epichloë endophyte on the persistence of mid- and late-heading perennial ryegrass cultivars. Method: Two mid-heading (Samson, Bronsyn) and two late-heading (One50, Rohan) cultivars, infected with selected endophytes (AR37, nea2/6) or with standard toxic endophyte, were established in a replicated plot study grazed by cattle in a subtropical environment of the upper North Island of New Zealand. Persistence characteristics were quantified at least five times per annum, over 4 years. Key results: Endophyte strain had an effect on persistence; infection with standard endophyte resulted in higher ryegrass ground cover percentage, ryegrass content in pasture dry matter and autumn yield than infection with nea2/6 on many occasions, and with AR37 on some occasions. There were negligible impacts on ryegrass tiller density or nutritive value. Trends were dominated by the main effect of endophyte; interactions with heading date were inconsistent. Conclusions: Cultivars were more persistent when infected with standard endophyte than with selected endophytes, although persistence declined over 4 years for all cultivars and irrespective of heading date. Implications: Reliance on selected endophyte is unlikely to prevent persistence decline of perennial ryegrass in a subtropical environment. Other strategies will be required to maintain the persistence of high-quality pastures based on perennial ryegrass. We determined the impact of endophyte strain (standard toxic endophyte, selected strains nea2/6 and AR37), on the persistence of four perennial ryegrass cultivars. Standard endophyte resulted in greater persistence than the selected endophytes, with higher ryegrass ground cover percentage and content in pasture dry matter by the end of the study, and higher herbage yields in autumn. Persistence declined over 4 years for all cultivars, regardless of endophyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Data are lacking on the effects of heading date of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) on ryegrass persistence. Aim: We aimed to determine the impact of heading date on perennial ryegrass persistence. Method: Two mid-heading (Samson, Bronsyn) and two late-heading (One50, Rohan) cultivars, infected with Epichloë endophytes (AR37, nea2/6 or standard toxic), were established in a replicated plot study grazed by cattle in a subtropical environment of the upper North Island of New Zealand. Persistence characteristics were quantified at least five times per annum, over 4 years. Key results: Late-heading cultivars had higher yield, nutritive value, perennial ryegrass content in pasture dry matter, ground cover and tiller density than mid-heading cultivars. There were large seasonal impacts on all ryegrass characteristics, with a major decline over summer and recovery during late autumn into early spring, with less recovery in the final year. Overall, there was a strong linear decline in ryegrass content measured during spring (2018–21). Conclusions: The two late-heading cultivars were more persistent than the two mid-heading cultivars, although persistence declined over 4 years for all cultivars. Implications: Results support industry recommendations of choosing late-heading cultivars for improved pasture quality and persistence. We determined the impact of heading date on persistence of perennial ryegrass cultivars infected with a range of endophytes, in a plot study grazed by cattle. The two late-heading cultivars were more persistent than the two mid-heading cultivars, with higher yield, nutritive value, perennial ryegrass content in pasture dry matter, ground cover and tiller density, although persistence declined over 4 years for all cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is a decline in the quality and nutritive value of eggs in aged laying hens. Fruit pomaces with high nutritional and functional values have gained interest in poultry production to improve the performance. Methods: The performance, egg nutritive value, lipidmetabolism, ovarian health, and cecal microbiota abundance were evaluated in aged laying hens (320 laying hens, 345-day-old) fed on a basal diet (control), and a basal diet inclusion of 0.25%, 0.5%, or 1.0% fermented Aronia melanocarpa pomace (FAMP) for eight weeks. Results: The results show that 0.5% FAMP reduced the saturated fatty acids (such as C16:0) and improved the healthy lipid indices in egg yolks by decreasing the atherogenicity index, thrombogenic index, and hypocholesterolemia/hypercholesterolemia ratio and increasing health promotion index and desirable fatty acids (P < 0.05). Additionally, FAMP supplementation (0.25%-1.0%) increased (P < 0.05) the ovarian follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and estrogen 2 levels, while 1.0% FAMP upregulated the HSD3B1 expression. The expression of VTG II and ApoVLDL II in the 0.25% and 0.5% FAMP groups, APOB in the 0.5% FAMP group, and ESR2 in the 1% FAMP group were upregulated (P < 0.05) in the liver. The ovarian total antioxidant capacity was increased (P < 0.05) by supplementation with 0.25%-1.0% FAMP. Dietary 0.5% and 1.0% FAMP downregulated (P < 0.05) the Keap1 expression, while 1.0% FAMP upregulated (P < 0.05) the Nrf2 expression in the ovary. Furthermore, 1.0% FAMP increased cecal acetate, butyrate, and valerate concentrations and Firmicutes while decreasing Proteobacteria (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Overall, FAMP improved the nutritive value of eggs in aged laying hens by improving the liver-blood-ovary function and cecal microbial and metabolite composition, which might help to enhance economic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background With rising obesity rates in Western societies, analyzing changes in dietary patterns is paramount. While nutritional surveys have been informative, traditional cookbooks have historically shed light on national cuisines and its changes. Despite the growing popularity of online platforms for food information, cookbooks might still reflect prevalent dietary trends and the diets people follow. This study examined (1) the changes in nutritional content and food group usage in the best-selling cookbooks from 2008 to 2018, and (2) the correlation between the food groups in these cookbooks and dietary patterns (inferred from household purchases) over the same timeframe. Methods An exploratory ecological study was conducted on 20 main course recipes of each of the five best-selling cookbooks in Flanders annually between 2008 and 2018. Trends in macronutrients and food group usage in these recipes were analyzed using generalized linear models. Additionally, these trends were compared to household purchase data in Flanders using correlation matrices. Results Our results reveal a rising trend towards the use of plant-based ingredients and meat alternatives in cookbooks over the period 2008–2018. There was an increase in the usage of vegetables, nuts & seeds, and cheese. Conversely, there was a decline in the usage of meat, sugar & sweeteners, alcohol, and dairy (all p-values

IntroductionInduction of lactation in a non-gestational parent has numerous potential benefits including parent-child bonding, optimal nutrition, and health benefits to the child and breast- or chest-feeding parent. For transgender women and nonbinary people on estrogen-based, gender-affirming hormone therapy, the ability to nourish their infants through production of their own milk may also be a profoundly gender-affirming experience. Two prior case studies have been published describing induced lactation in transgender women, but analysis of the nutritional quality of the milk produced has not been previously described.Main issueHere we describe the experience of a transgender woman who underwent successful induction of lactation in order to breastfeed her infant, who was gestated by her partner.ManagementThrough modification of exogenous hormone therapy, use of domperidone as a galactogogue, breast pumping, and ultimately direct breastfeeding, the participant was able to co-feed her infant for the first 4 months of life. We provide a detailed description and timeline of the medications used, laboratory and electrocardiographic measurements, results of the participant's milk analysis showing robust macronutrient content, and description of the participant's experience in her own words.ConclusionThese findings provide reassurance about the adequacy of nutrition from human milk produced by non-gestational transgender female and nonbinary parents on estrogen-based, gender-affirming hormone therapy, and support the importance of this experience on a personal level.

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of the dietary inclusion of silkworm (Bombyx mori) oil (SWO) in rabbit diets as a total replacement of sunflower oil on growth performance, carcase traits, total tract apparent digestibility (TTAD) and nutritive value of the diets. A total of n = 64 mixed-sex weaned rabbits (5-week-old) were pair-housed in cages and fed with a commercial diet containing 1.3% sunflower oil (control). From 7 to 10 weeks of age, two experimental groups were formed: half of the rabbits received a control diet, and the other half received a diet where the sunflower oil was replaced by the SWO. During the trial, growth parameters and feed intake were weekly recorded to calculate productive parameters. At 10 weeks of age, rabbits were slaughtered and dissected to determine carcase traits. In parallel to the growth trial, another twenty-four 55-day-old rabbits were individually housed in digestibility cages and randomly assigned to one of the two experimental groups (n = 12 rabbits/group) to study the TTAD and nutritive value of the diets. Overall, the dietary inclusion of SWO did not affect the in vivo performance and carcase traits of rabbits. Additionally, the TTAD of rabbits was unaffected by SWO inclusion, although the SWO diet exhibited lower digestible energy (DE) compared to the control diet (p

Background: Lichen is a symbiotic organism with unique structure composed of a fungal partner and an algal partner. It has been utilized in folk foods and medicines. The objective of the present study was to analyze the ingredients and the impact of heating on various physicochemical and phytochemical characteristics of a 500 g sample of lichen Evernia prunastri from Jijel, Algeria collected in May 2021. Methods: The nutritional value of the lichen was determined by studying various parameters. The metal contents were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The effect of heating (70 and 100 °C) on the physicochemical parameters, and bioactive compounds of aqueous extracts obtained by maceration in distilled water was studied. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA. Results: A high percentage of carbohydrates (64.00%) were observed in the lichen material. Pectin, fats, and crude proteins levels were low. High ash content (10.85%) was obtained with the presence of metal elements. Preliminary phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids with 51.13 mg Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE)/100 g and 17.87 mg Quercetin Equivalent (QE)/100 g of lichen, respectively. The lichen sample subjected to 70 °C demonstrated an increase in the parameters examined, with the exception of proteins and vitamin C. Conversely, the lichen sample treated at 100 °C exhibited a reduction in vitamin C, protein, and bioactive compound content, as well as an increase in sugar content. Titratable acidity and pH parameters were unaffected. Conclusion: The appreciable quantities of carbohydrates, crude fibers, and other compounds in this lichen suggest a potential use for these active ingredients in the preparation of functional food. Heating to 70 °C produces a preparation enriched in bioactive substances and sugars. However, heating to 100 °C, exposes the various tissues to degradation, potentially leading to a decrease in nutrients. DOI: 10.18502/jfqhc.11.2.15650

Background: Lentils are one of the most important rainfed legumes in the world. They are an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. Methods: Proximate composition (moisture, total ash, total fat, protein, fiber, and carbohydrate), mineral content, antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50), and total phenolic compounds (TPC) were determined in the raw, germinated, and cooked samples of two cultivars of Iranian lentils. Results: Cooking and germination showed a significant effect on TPC, antioxidant activity, and minerals. The highest amount of phenolic compounds was obtained in raw black lentil, followed by raw green and germinated lentils. The black cultivar showed a higher quantity of K, Cu, Ca, and Zn and treatments decreased the concentrations of mineral elements in the investigated samples. Moreover, losses of the minerals in the cooked samples were higher than the germinated ones. Conclusions: Cooking and germination brought about a significant reduction in the phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Meaningful reductions were also recognized in the mineral content during cooking and germination.

The geographical distribution of bermudagrass cultivars is limited by freezing events (<0°C), commonly associated with higher latitudes in the northern hemisphere. The lipid composition in the plant cell membranes is critical to promote persistence under freezing conditions. This study evaluated herbage accumulation (HA), nutritive value, and lipid biosynthesis of different bermudagrass cultivars in Ona, FL (27°26' N 82°55' W) and Marianna, FL (30o52' N 85o11' W), in 2 years. Treatments were five bermudagrass cultivars (Coastal, Tifton 44, Tifton 85, Jiggs, and Mislevy) distributed in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. HA was greater in Marianna than in Ona for all cultivars (p < 0.05). Mislevy and Jiggs had greater HA in Marianna than the others (p < 0.05), while all cultivars were similar in Ona (p > 0.05). There was no difference between locations or among the cultivars for crude protein and neutral detergent fibre, but bermudagrass cultivars had greater in vitro digestibility of organic matter (IVDOM) in Marianna than in Ona (p < 0.05). The concentration of unsaturated fatty acids increased in the northern latitude (Marianna; p < 0.05). Coastal had greater unsaturated fatty acid concentration than other cultivars (p < 0.05). Geographical location affects HA, IVDOM, and unsaturated fatty acid concentration of bermudagrass cultivars. The unsaturated fatty acid concentration plays a key role in acclimating bermudagrass to different thermal environments. Coastal showed great potential to tolerate chilling stress in Florida. Further studies may be developed to identify promising molecular markers for cold tolerance in bermudagrass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This editorial discusses various studies related to the production of silage, focusing on factors that influence forage quality, physiology, and fermentation characteristics. The studies explore topics such as the effects of endogenous potassium and sodium on silage quality, the use of additives to improve the silage quality of corn in high-temperature environments, and the impact of magnesium and calcium on the production of kernel starch in corn. The document also mentions the use of plant essential oils as feed additives and the potential of natural woody plants as a sustainable feed source for livestock. The editorial concludes by emphasizing the need for further research in this area. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Lichen is a symbiotic organism with unique structure composed of a fungal partner and an algal partner. It has been utilized in folk foods and medicines. The objective of the present study was to analyze the ingredients and the impact of heating on various physicochemical and phytochemical characteristics of a 500 g sample of lichen Evernia prunastri from Jijel, Algeria collected in May 2021. Methods: The nutritional value of the lichen was determined by studying various parameters. The metal contents were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The effect of heating (70 and 100 °C) on the physicochemical parameters, and bioactive compounds of aqueous extracts obtained by maceration in distilled water was studied. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA. Results: A high percentage of carbohydrates (64.00%) were observed in the lichen material. Pectin, fats, and crude proteins levels were low. High ash content (10.85%) was obtained with the presence of metal elements. Preliminary phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids with 51.13 mg Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE)/100 g and 17.87 mg Quercetin Equivalent (QE)/100 g of lichen, respectively. The lichen sample subjected to 70 °C demonstrated an increase in the parameters examined, with the exception of proteins and vitamin C. Conversely, the lichen sample treated at 100 °C exhibited a reduction in vitamin C, protein, and bioactive compound content, as well as an increase in sugar content. Titratable acidity and pH parameters were unaffected. Conclusion: The appreciable quantities of carbohydrates, crude fibers, and other compounds in this lichen suggest a potential use for these active ingredients in the preparation of functional food. Heating to 70 °C produces a preparation enriched in bioactive substances and sugars. However, heating to 100 °C, exposes the various tissues to degradation, potentially leading to a decrease in nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Nutritional quality of gluten-free (GF) food products is very important, as patients with celiac disease consume these products for lifelong. There is paucity of data on the nutritional content and cost of GF food products compared with their gluten-containing (GC) counterparts from India (Asia). Design: After a detailed market survey, packaged and labeled GF food products (n=485) and their packaged GC counterparts (n=790) from the supermarkets of Delhi (India) and e-commerce websites were included. Nutritional content and cost/100 g food (in US dollars) were calculated using the information on food label. Results: Gluten-free food products were 232% (range: 118% to 376%) more expensive than their GC counterparts. Energy content of all GF food products was similar to their GC counterparts, except cereal-based snacks (GF: 445 kcal vs. GC: 510 kcal, p<0.001). The protein content was significantly lower in GF pasta and macaroni products (single-grain: GF: 6.5 g vs. GC:11. 5 g, p-0.002; multigrain: GF:7.6 g vs. GC:11.5 g, p-0.027), cereal flours (single-grain: GF: 7.6 g vs. GC: 12.3 g, p<0.001; multigrain: GF:10.9 g vs. GC: 14.1 g, p-0.009) and nutritional bars (GF: 21.81 g vs. GC:26 g, p-0.028) than their GC counterparts. Similarly, the dietary-fiber content of GF pasta and macaroni products, cereal flours, cereal premix and nutritional bars of GF foods was significantly lower than their GC counterparts. Gluten-free bread and confectionary items, biscuits and cookies and snacks had higher total fats and trans-fat content than their GC counterparts. Gluten-free cereal-based snacks had higher sodium content than their GC counterparts (GF: 820 mg vs. GC:670 mg; p<0.001). Conclusion: GF foods are significantly more expensive, contain less protein and dietary fiber and higher fat, trans-fat and sodium than their GC counterparts. Strategies must be developed to reduce the cost and improve the nutritional profile of GF foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variation of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) core collection was assessed based on the main nutritive and bioactive components. Nutritional profile was described for each cultivar and landrace. Protein content was in the familiar range for common bean (19.6-31.6%). Detected variability for potassium, sulphur, iron and zinc was 7.78, 16.7, 14.99, and 40.17%, respectively. Total phenolic content ranged from 1.8 to 14.1 mg GAE /g DW, with high variation (CV = 41.3%). Likewise, antioxidant tests DPPH, ABTS and FRAP had high, genotype-based, CV in range 29-46%. With the application of PCA and cluster analysis, better insight in underlying germplasm structure was acknowledged, as well accession’s grouping based on the studied traits. Cultivars Vulkan and Panonski tetovac, breeding line HR45, landraces L24, L92, L119, L120, and L125 had larger amounts of iron, nitrogen, and proteins. Elevated phenolic content was observed in cultivars Balkan and Spinel, as well as landraces L19, L29, L41 and L60. In addition, cultivar Royal Dutch was recognized for higher levels of zinc, and higher antioxidant capacity revealed by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Therefore, these tests could be used in the selection of the accessions for breeding for nutritive quality enhancing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of mushrooms as a food source is continually increasing. To investigate how environmental factors affect the nutritional value of mushrooms, we harvested them in eastern Poland, south-central Germany, and northwestern Belgium in plots with similar environmental conditions but varying in tree species composition and richness. We used gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to analyze the fatty acid (FA) content of the mushrooms. Fungal species identity explained the largest part (40%) of the total variation in FA concentration and composition. Environmental factors accounted for 1–12% of variation. The concentration of FA, especially saturated fatty acids, decreased with increasing understory cover and increasing nitrogen concentration in the topsoil. The effect of tree species richness or tree species identity was negligible. Our results suggest that the nutritional value of mushrooms depends mainly on the species identity of fungi, but that their FA content is slightly higher in forests with less undergrowth and in nitrogen-poor soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment aimed to evaluate the replacement of cottonseed meal (CSM) with wheat germ meal (WGM) in diets of growing lambs on feed utilization and growth performance. Twenty‐eight Ossimi male lambs (38 ± 0.8 kg weight), and 180 ± 5 days were divided randomly into four experimental groups in a complete randomized design for 105 days. Cottonseed meal was replaced with WGM at 0 (WGM0 treatment), 50 (WGM50 treatment), 75 (WGM75 treatment) and 100% (WGM100 treatment). The chemical analysis of the total essential and non‐essential amino acids showed an increase at the WGM diet compared to CSM. The replacement of CSM with WGM linearly and quadratically improved (p ˂ 0.05) lambs' growth performance and feed conversion. The WGM50 and WGM100 treatments lowered (p ˂ 0.05) feed intake, without affecting nutrient digestibility or diets' nutritive. Feeding WGM increased (p ˂ 0.05) total protein, albumin, and urea‐N concentrations in blood of lambs. The WGM100 treatment showed the highest relative percentage of net revenue compared to the other treatments. It is concluded that the complete replacement of CSM with WGM showed positive effects on lambs' performance and economic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lentils are one of the most important rainfed legumes in the world. They are an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. Methods: Proximate composition (moisture, total ash, total fat, protein, fiber, and carbohydrate), mineral content, antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50), and total phenolic compounds (TPC) were determined in the raw, germinated, and cooked samples of two cultivars of Iranian lentils. Results: Cooking and germination showed a significant effect on TPC, antioxidant activity, and minerals. The highest amount of phenolic compounds was obtained in raw black lentil, followed by raw green and germinated lentils. The black cultivar showed a higher quantity of K, Cu, Ca, and Zn and treatments decreased the concentrations of mineral elements in the investigated samples. Moreover, losses of the minerals in the cooked samples were higher than the germinated ones. Conclusions: Cooking and germination brought about a significant reduction in the phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Meaningful reductions were also recognized in the mineral content during cooking and germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whole-crop wheat (Triticum aestivum, WCW) has a high nutritional value and digestibility. No-tillage (NT) can reduces energy and labor inputs in the agricultural production process, thus decreasing production costs. There are many studies on planting techniques of WCW at present, few being on no-tillage planting. This study aimed to compare the effects of different tillage methods and maturity stages on the yield, nutritive value, and silage fermentation quality of WCW. The experiment included two tillage methods (NT; conventional tillage, CT), two maturity stages (flowering stage; milk stage), and three years (2016-2017; 2017-2018; 2018-2019). Years had a strong influence on the yield and nutritional composition of WCW. This was mainly related to the amount of rainfall, as it affects the seedling emergence rate of wheat. Although tillage methods showed no significant effects on the yield, plant height, and stem number per plant of WCW (P > 0.05), compared to CT, the dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) yields of NT decreased by 0.74 t/ha and 0.13 t/ha. Tillage methods showed no significant effects on the nutritive composition of WCW (P > 0.05). The WCW at the milk stage had greater DM (5.25 t/ha) and CP (0.60 t/ha) yields than that at the flowering stage (3.19 t/ha and 0.39 t/ha) (P< 0.05). The acid detergent fiber concentration of WCW decreased by 34.5% from the flowering to the milk stage, whereas water-soluble carbohydrates concentration increased by 50.6%. The CP concentration at the milk stage was lower than that at the flowering stage (P< 0.05). The lactic acid concentration of NT (17.1 g/kg DM) silage was lower than that of CT (26.6 g/kg DM) silage (P< 0.05). The WCW silage at the milk stage had a lower NH3-N concentration (125 g/kg TN) than that at the flowering stage (169 g/kg TN) (P< 0.05). Wheat sown by NT and CT was of similar yield and nutritional value, irrespective of harvest stages. WCW harvested at the milk stage had greater yield and better nutritional composition and silage fermentation quality than that at the flowering stage. Based upon the results of the membership function analysis, no-tillage sowing of wheat was feasible and harvesting at milk stage was recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Africa, a wide variety of diets (forage + crop co-products or other agricultural by-products) is being used by livestock farmers in different production systems to adapt to climate change. This study aimed to assess the performance of various local feeding strategies on Sudanese Fulani zebu cattle. Two experiments were carried out on 10 steers aged initially 33 months (142 kg body weight – BW). The animals were fed eight different diets at an intake level of 3.2% LW in dry matter (DM), including two control diets of 100% rangeland forage (100% RF) and six experimental diets made up of forage and crop co-products (75:25 DM ratio). In the first experiment, the control diet was made up of rangeland forage (RF) and supplements consisted of four cereal co-products (CC), i.e. maize, sorghum, millet, and rice straws. In the second experiment, the control diet consisted of Panicum maximum (Pmax) hay, and the supplements tested were two legume co-products (LC), i.e. cowpea and peanut haulms. Each experiment lasted 3 weeks, including 2 weeks of adaptation to the diet and 1 week of data collection on individual animals (intake, apparent digestibility, and enteric methane). The NDF content of the diets was different within each experiment (p < 0.05). Among diets containing CC, DM intake [g/kg BW] was significantly higher (+31%; p = 0.025) for the diet containing rice straw than for the other diets, which showed similar levels to the RF diet. Among diets containing LC, intake was significantly higher (p = 0.004) than for the Pmax diet. Intake was higher for the peanut haulm diet than for the cowpea haulm diet. The DM digestibility was similar between the different diets in each experiment. Enteric methane (eCH4) yield [g/kg DMI] from the CC and LC-containing diets were reduced by an average of 23% and 20% compared to the RF and Pmax control diets respectively. Raising awareness among agro-pastoralists about the use of crop co-products offers real prospects for eCH4 emissions mitigation in the Sahel region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the chemical composition, digestibility, nutritive value, nitrogen retention, growth performance, economical efficiency and blood constituents of lambs fed SBLS treated as compared with different urea levels with CFM plus WS. Eighteen growing Frafra male lambs with 20.730 ± 0.29 kg average LBW and six months of age were used in the feeding experiment. TI, lambs were fed CFM +WS as control, T2, lambs were fed CFM + SBLS supplemented with 0.3% urea, T3, lambs were fed CFM + SBLS supplemented with 0.6% urea. Digestibility and nutritive values of compared with ureated SBLS. Ureated diets showed significantly higher (P<0.00l) values for nitrogen retention compared with control group (TI). Growth performance was shored significantly (p<0.001) by increasing levels of treated SBLS in diets. Feed consumption and feed conversion ratio decreased significantly (p<0.001), lambs fed T2 and T3 showed the best feed conversion ratio as kg DM and kg TDN kg/kg gain compared with those fed control. Consequently, lamb's fed ureated SBLS recorded lowest feed cost (LE), (better efficiency) compared with those fed the control diet. Results of blood constituents as GL, TP, T3 and T4 were increased by adding SBLS in sheep diets and differences were significant (p<0.001) while the rest of constituents such as (AL, Gb, urea, cholesterol, Tr, ALT and AST) were not differ significantly by (P<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background Small-grain winter cereals can be utilized as early spring pastures in temperate climates to relieve grazing pressure and potentially mitigate feed shortages. This study was conducted to determine the effects of triticale and oat cereal pastures grazed by sheep during early spring on forage yields, nutritive values, and nutritional requirements of sheep. Methods The research was carried out over three consecutive years, from 2015 to 2017, at the Sheep Research Institute in Bandırma-Balıkesir, located in the Marmara region of Türkiye. The treatments were arranged in a completely randomized block design, with the two forage species, triticale and oat, randomized within each of three blocks. The animal material for the study consisted of 24 Karacabey Merino sheep, each 2 years old, with an average live weight of 57.6 ± 0.5 kg, all in the late lactation stage. In each replication, four sheep were included, resulting in a total of 12 sheep grazing in each of the triticale and oat pastures. The sheep grazed exclusively on the cereal pastures without any additional feed, and had unrestricted access to water throughout the entire period of the experiment. The dry matter yields (DMY), dry matter intakes (DMI), nutritive values, and mineral contents of the cereal species were determined. Results The DMY showed significant differences over the years (P

Source: Authors assumptions, 2024.

The scarcity of high-quality forage has a significant influence on the productivity and profitability of livestock. Addressing this concern, an investigation was undertaken to assess the effects of distinct Italian ryegrass genotypes, namely, Punjab ryegrass-1, Kashmir collection, and Makhan grass, in conjunction with varying seeding ratios of Italian ryegrass to Egyptian clover. The seeding ratios considered were 100:0 (Italian ryegrass to Egyptian clover), 75:25, 50:50, and 25:75. All possible combinations of Italian ryegrass and Egyptian clover with seeding ratios were set up in a randomized complete block design and replicated thrice. Co-cultivating Italian ryegrass and Egyptian clover at a 75:25 seeding ratio yields the best yield benefit, as determined by the land equivalent ratio. It is noteworthy that in this configuration, real yield loss is higher for Egyptian clover and for Italian ryegrass when the seeding ratio is 25:75. The higher competitiveness of Italian ryegrass in comparison to Egyptian clover is highlighted by the competitive ratio. Notably, the nutritive parameter, crude protein yield, was significantly higher in the Makhan grass-based 50:50 and 75:25 seeding ratio. Results of the study ascertained the compatibility of grass-legume co-cultivation with significantly higher quantity and quality forage harvested under mixed cropping systems whereas Makhan grass as the superior and dominant genotype in comparison to Kashmir collection. The outcomes of this study revealed that the 100:0 seeding ratio, coupled with the Makhan grass genotype, exhibited superior performance in terms of cumulative forage harvest, dry matter accumulation, net returns, and benefit–cost ratio.

University food environments have a strong influence on the dietary choices of students and staff. The aim of this study was to assess the food environment at a large university in Sydney, Australia. Data were collected between March and July 2022 from 27 fixed food outlets and 24 vending machines. The healthiness of the food environment was evaluated using the Healthy Food and Drink in NSW Health Facilities for Staff and Visitors Framework ('Framework'), which assesses food environment parameters including the availability, placement, and promotion of 'Everyday' (healthy) and 'Occasional' (less healthy) products. Each parameter was evaluated overall and across each food outlet type. Across all outlets, Everyday foods and drinks made up 43.9% of all products. Only two outlets met the Framework's product availability benchmark of ≥75% Everyday foods and drinks. A total of 43 outlets (84.3%) sold sugary drinks as part of their product range. Occasional products made up 68.4%, 53.3%, and 59.9% of all items for sale at checkout areas, countertops, and eye-level shelves, respectively. Finally, 79.7% of meal deals included Occasional products. Our findings highlight the need to improve the availability, placement, and promotion of foods and drinks sold at a major university campus in Sydney, Australia.

The study evaluated the effect of additives treatment on the chemical composition and silage quality of soybean husk in a 28-day experiment, using completely randomised design. Soybean husk was chopped into 1-3 cm length and ensiled in a laboratory silo. There were four treatments consisting of the control (no additive treatment; T1), urea treatment (T2), molasses treatment (T3) and urea and molasses treatment (T4). The colour of the silages was goldenrod, dark goldenrod, peru and burly wood for T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Except for T2 which had a pungent smell, silage smell was generally pleasant. All the silages had firm texture. Silage temperature, ether extract and propionic acid were (P>0.05) not affected by treatments. Silage dry matter and ammonia-nitrogen were higher (P

Food insecurity is associated with increased risk of chronic disease and poor dietary intake. The United States charitable food system, a complex network of food banks, pantries and congregate meal sites, provides food for millions of low-income households each year. Food banks and pantries play a critical role in supporting food security and are an important contributor to dietary intake for its clients. In recent years, there has been an increased focus on sourcing and supplying more nutritious foods within the charitable food system. Despite this, there is a lack of alignment in how the charitable food system defines and tracks the nutritional quality of food.In 2019, Healthy Eating Research convened a panel of nutrition, charitable food system and food policy experts to create a set of evidence-based nutrition standards. Standards were developed based on a review of the literature and existing nutrition ranking systems, while also considering the operational needs and capacity of the charitable food system. The panel provided recommendations for eleven distinct food categories: fruits and vegetables, grains, protein, dairy, non-dairy alternatives, beverages, mixed dishes, processed and packaged snacks, desserts, condiments and cooking staples, and other miscellaneous items. Products are ranked into three tiers, choose often (green), choose sometimes (yellow) or choose rarely (red), based on designated saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar thresholds. This paper outlines the expert panel's approach and summarizes the barriers and opportunities for implementing these standards across the charitable food system.

Simple Summary: To improve the quality of feedstuff for use as animal feed, four alternative pretreatment methods (extrusion, microwave irradiation, gamma irradiation, or NaOH hydrolysis) were applied for cassava chips. The proximate chemical compositions and nutritive profiles were significantly altered due to the pretreatment methods (p < 0.05), as well as the physicochemical properties in aspects to enhance enzymatic hydrolysis. Based on in vitro carbohydrate digestibility, microwave irradiation was suitable for improving nutrient bioavailability in the aquatic animal model, Nile tilapia, while microwaving, followed by extrusion or gamma irradiation, was suitable for the poultry model, broiler chicken. However, no differences were observed for the ruminant model. Our in vitro screening investigations support the use of pretreated cassava chips for animal feeding, especially for fish and broiler. Physical pretreatment procedures can significantly influence the quality of food and feed raw materials. To increase the ability to be digested in animals, cassava chips were pretreated by four alternative methods (extrusion, microwave irradiation, gamma irradiation, or NaOH hydrolysis), and then the chemical composition, physicochemical properties, and in vitro digestibility of the pretreated samples were assessed and compared with unprocessed cassava chips (control). The chemical compositions (crude protein, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, ash, non-fiber carbohydrate, and gross energy) were significantly altered due to the pretreatment methods (p < 0.05). The nutritive profile was qualitatively changed when assessed through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Some physicochemical properties in association with enzymatic hydrolysis, which include pH, water solubility, water absorption capacity, thermal properties (differential scanning calorimetry), diffraction pattern (X-ray diffractometry), and microstructure (scanning electron microscopy), were significantly changed. In vitro carbohydrate digestibility based on digestive enzyme extracts from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) suggests the microwaving method for cassava chips preparation, while microwaving, followed by extrusion or gamma irradiation, was suggested for broiler (Gallus gallus domesticus). There were no differences in the pepsin-cellulase digestibility values tested for the ruminant model. These findings suggest the use of pretreated cassava chips in animal feeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock supplementation with forage trees is becoming a sustainable alternative to traditional grazing on the open pastures during the dry season in Benin. However, little is known about the feeding preferences of sheep and the digestibility of such native tree/shrub fodder. Such knowledge could improve their use on smallholder farms. Multiple-choice feeding preference tests were conducted on six tree fodders (Annona senegalensis, Blighia sapida, Cassia sieberiana, Gmelina arborea, Khaya senegalensis, and Mangifera indica) to determine the best choice to feed the local rams and ewe Djallonke sheep. The cafeteria test involved four rams and four ewes. In addition, an in vivo trial using metabolic cages was conducted to evaluate the voluntary intake of dried woody leaves and the dry matter digestibility of diets containing these dried leaves. Preferences varied significantly (p ≤ 0.05) according to the woody species. Based on relative intake values, sheep preferred, in decreasing order, the leaves of M. indica, B. sapida, K. senegalensis, G. arborea, A. senegalensis, and C. sieberiana. The apparent digestibility of dry matter was highest (p ≤ 0.01) in the G. arborea diet (86.8%); all diets presented a value higher than 70%. This study provided helpful information about better resource utilization to improve animal productivity. Further study could evaluate the growth performance of sheep supplemented with tree fodder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world's growing pet population is raising sustainability and environmental concerns for the petfood industry. Protein-rich marine by-products might contribute to mitigating negative environmental effects, decreasing waste, and improving economic efficiency. The present study evaluated two marine by-products, squid meal and shrimp hydrolysate, as novel protein sources for dog feeding. Along with the analysis of chemical composition and antioxidant activity, palatability was evaluated by comparing a commercial diet (basal diet) and diets with the inclusion of 150 g kg-1 of squid meal or shrimp hydrolysate using 12 Beagle dogs (2.2 ± 0.03 years). Two in vivo digestibility trials were conducted with six dogs, three experimental periods (10 days each) and three dietary inclusion levels (50, 100 and 150 g kg-1) of squid meal or shrimp hydrolysate in place of the basal diet to evaluate effects of inclusion level on apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), metabolizable energy content, fecal characteristics, metabolites, and microbiota. Both protein sources presented higher protein and methionine contents than ingredients traditionally used in dog food formulation. Shrimp hydrolysate showed higher antioxidant activity than squid meal. First approach and taste were not affected by the inclusion of protein sources, but animals showed a preference for the basal diet. Effects on nutrient intake reflected the chemical composition of diets, and fecal output and characteristics were not affected by the increasing inclusion levels of both protein sources. The higher ATTD of dry matter, most nutrients and energy of diets with the inclusion of both by-products when compared to the basal diet, suggests their potential to be included in highly digestible diets for dogs. Although not affected by the inclusion level of protein sources, when compared to the basal diet, the inclusion of squid meal decreased butyrate concentration and shrimp hydrolysate increased all volatile fatty acids, except butyrate. Fecal microbiota was not affected by squid meal inclusion, whereas inclusion levels of shrimp hydrolysate significantly affected abundances of Oscillosperaceae (UCG-005), Firmicutes and Lactobacillus. Overall, results suggest that squid meal and shrimp hydrolysate constitute novel and promising protein sources for dog food, but further research is needed to fully evaluate their functional value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of the addition of molasses (5 and 10% of dry matter: DM basis; M5 and M10 respectively) with or without urea (2%; U2, U2 + M5 and U2 + M10) on chemical and mineral composition, silage quality, microbial populations, buffering capacity and fermentation/digestion characteristics of common reed (Phragmites australis) ensiled under anaerobic conditions were investigated. The additives changed the silage quality of common reed compared with the control. Crude protein content was significantly (p < 0.0001) increased in urea‐containing silages, whereas ash‐free neutral detergent fibre concentration decreased in M10 compared with the control (p = 0.05). Treatment with 2% urea (U2) resulted in the reduction of most measured minerals with a severe decrease in iron concentration. The amount of gas produced after 96 h of incubation was, respectively, higher for U2, M10, U2M10, U2M5 and M5 compared with the control (p < 0.0001). Although the greatest in vitro dry matter digestibility and in vitro organic matter digestibility (96 h) were observed in U2 (p < 0.0001), no significant differences were found between U2 and M10. Supplementation with 10% molasses (M10) significantly increased lactic acid concentration, aerobic stability and total bacteria compared with other treatments (p < 0.0001). Moreover, DM loss (p = 0.0004), total yeast and mould (p < 0.0001) were significantly decreased as a result of 10% molasses treatment. Overall, it can be suggested that treating silage with 10% molasses (M10) has the potential to efficiently improve the nutritive value of common reed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to evaluate the yield performance of improved forage and food crops and to estimate the profitability of fodder and food crops in Holetta and Ejere areas, central highlands of Ethiopia during 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications and evaluated two annual forage crops, two perennial forage crops, and two cereal food crops. Data on herbage dry matter (DM) yield was collected for forage crops while straw and grain yields were measured for food crops. Partial budget analysis was made to evaluate the economic feasibility of forage and food crops production. The result revealed that the herbage DM yield varied (P<0.05) at each location during each production year and combined over years and between the two locations. The straw and grain yields of food crops also varied (P<0.05) between the two production years and locations. The nutritive values of herbage and straw yields of forage and food crops differed (P<0.05) for all measured parameters. The crude protein and in-vitro dry matter digestibility of perennial forage crops were relatively higher than annual forage crops and straw of food crops. The partial budget analysis result indicated that the gross revenue (GR) and net return (NR) obtained from food crops were the highest followed by annual forage crops while the least was recorded from perennial forage crops during the first year of production. However, perennial forage crops produced the higher GR and NR than food crops and annual forage crops in the second year of production. In the second year of production, among the forage crops, Desho grass generated 308, 293, 287, and 232% while Rhodes grass generated 99, 92, 90, and 62% more NR than wheat, sole oat, barley, and oat/vetch mixtures, respectively. The benefitcost ratio (BCR) of perennial forage crops was the lowest (3.0 for Desho and 1.6 for Rhodes) in the first year of production but the ratio was the highest (17.2 for Desho and 8.6 for Rhodes) in the second year of production. This confirms the better economic feasibility of perennial forage crops as they can be maintained using minimal management cost once they have been established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated forage and livestock performance in different grazing systems over two years. Treatments were three contrasting grazing systems: (I) N-fertilized bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flüggé) in the summer overseeded during the winter by N-fertilized ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) and oat (Avena sativa L.) (Grass + N); (II) unfertilized bahiagrass during the summer overseeded with ryegrass + oat and a blend of clovers (Trifolium spp.) in the winter (Grass + Clover); (III) unfertilized bahiagrass and rhizoma peanut (RP; Arachis glabrata Benth.) mixture during summer, overseeded during winter by ryegrass + oat + clovers mixture (Grass + Clover + RP). Average daily gain (ADG), gain per area (GPA), and stocking rate (SR) in the winter did not differ across treatments and averaged 0.87 kg/d (P = 0.940), 303 kg/ha, and 2.72 AU/ha. In the summer, Grass + Clover + RP had greater ADG than Grass + N (0.34 vs. 0.17 kg/d, respectively). During the summer, the GPA of Grass + Clover + RP was superior to Grass + N (257 vs. 129 kg/ha, respectively), with no difference in SR among treatments at 3.19 AU/ha. Over the entire year, ADG and GPA tended to be greater for Grass + Clover + RP. Annual SR differed between treatments, where Grass + N was greater (3.37 AU/ha) than the other treatments, which averaged 2.76 AU/ha. Integration of legumes into pasture systems in the summer and winter contributes to developing a sustainable grazing system, reducing N fertilizer use by 85% while tending to increase livestock productivity even though SR was decreased by 18%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated the effect of additives treatment on the chemical composition and silage quality of soybean husk in a 28-day experiment, using completely randomised design. Soybean husk was chopped into 1-3 cm length and ensiled in a laboratory silo. There were four treatments consisting of the control (no additive treatment; T1), urea treatment (T2), molasses treatment (T3) and urea and molasses treatment (T4). The colour of the silages was goldenrod, dark goldenrod, peru and burly wood for T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Except for T2 which had a pungent smell, silage smell was generally pleasant. All the silages had firm texture. Silage temperature, ether extract and propionic acid were (P>0.05) not affected by treatments. Silage dry matter and ammonia-nitrogen were higher (P<0.05) in T2 than in other treatments. Silage organic matter, non-fibre carbohydrates, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, acid detergent lignin, hemicellulose, cellulose and butyric acid were higher P<0.05) in the control relative to the additive treatments. Crude protein of the silages was lowest and highest (P<0.05) in T1 and T4 respectively. Silage pH was lower in T3 than in other treatments. Acetic and lactic acids of the silages were affected by additives treatment, and increased in the order: T1 < T2 < T3 < T4 (P<0.05). In conclusion, additives treatment enhanced the nutritive and fermentation qualities of soybean husk. However, urea and molasses treatment produced the best results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of areal biomass of the local ecotype of common comfrey - Symphytum officinale - grown in the experimental plot of the National Botanical Garden (Institute), Chişinău, Republic of Moldova, was evaluated. The results revealed that the nutrient content of the Symphytum officinale whole plants harvested in the flowering period was characterized by the following indices: 186 g/kg CP, 129 g/kg ash, 217 g/kg CF, 278 g/kg ADF, 449 g/kg NDF, 35 g/kg ADL, 224 g/kg Cel, 171 g/kg HC and 160 g/kg TSS with 672 g/kg DDM, RFV = 139, 13.16 MJ/kg DE, 10.80 MJ/kg ME and 6.83 MJ/kg NEl. The prepared comfrey silage had pleasant smell and color, pH = 4.10, 38.2 g/kg lactic acid, 6.4 g/kg acetic acid and butyric acid were not detected. The silage dry matter nutrient content was 17.19% CP, 2.17% EE, 21.57% CF, 45.88% NFE, 1.82% starch, 0.86% soluble sugars, 13.18% ash, 0.89% Ca and 0.39% P. The biochemical methane potential of comfrey green mass substrate 362 l/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2021-2022 the influence of three sowing rates (10, 15 and 20 kg ha-1) and four nitrogen fertilization rates (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg ha-1) on the chemical composition and the nutritive value of teff biomass (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) was tested for the area of Central South Bulgaria. It was established that nitrogen fertilization increases crude protein content, it being the highest when fertilized with 90 kg ha-1 nitrogen and sowing rate of 15 kg ha-1 in both harvest phases. Increasing the nitrogen and sowing rates, a negative trend is observed on the content of crude fat, crude fiber and ash, and a positive trend on the content of non-nitrogen extractive substances. The content of feed unit for milk (FUM) and feed unit for growth (FUG) does not change significantly both under the influence of the applied increasing doses of nitrogen fertilization and when the sowing rate is increased. Climatic factors have the strongest influence on the chemical composition of teff biomass. Nitrogen fertilization has a strong influence on the content of crude protein and ash, and harvesting phase - on the content of crude fat and crude fiber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating prices of protein concentrate supplements and increasing demand for dairy products in Ethiopia call for preservation of surplus forage during the growing season, to be fed to dairy cows at time of feed shortage. The objective of this on-farm study was to evaluate the nutritive quality of Napier and Desho grass silages with tree legume (sesbania) and herbaceous legumes (alfalfa, lablab, and faba bean) as legume components. Napier or Desho grasses were ensiled in bags with each legume at 0, 20, 30 and 40% inclusion levels (fresh weight). Replicates included nine and six farms in Mecha and Ad'aa districts, respectively. Silage bags were opened after 60 days, samples were taken for chemical analyses and evaluated for physical features. Data were analyzed using a completely randomized design in SPSS and differences among means separated using Duncan's. Silages were firm at Mecha and fairly firm at Ada'a. No mold appeared. pH values varied from 3.94 to 4.5 and increased (p < 0.001) with increasing levels of legume inclusion. The crude protein values followed a similar pattern to that of the pH. The fiber contents, NDF (p < 0.001) and ADF (p < 0.05/p < 0.01) declined while that of ADL increased (p < 0.001) with increasing legume inclusion levels. The different legume-based silages were assessed as highly palatable and revealed that the use of tree and herbaceous legumes can improve the nutritive quality of grasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]