Maximising the energy value of cassava products in diets for broiler chickens

The objective of this study was to investigate the utilization of energy as well as performance of broiler chickens on diets based on cassava chips and pellets with or without enzyme supplements. Feed intake to day 21 was lower (P < 0.01) on the diet containing cassava chips than on diets with maize or cassava pellets, in spite of enzyme supplementation and enzyme supplements improved (P < 0.01) feed intake on all diets. Live weight at day 21 was also significantly reduced (P < 0.01) on the diet based on cassava chips but improved (P < 0.01) by the enzyme supplements. Metabolizable energy intake was reduced (P < 0.01) by both cassava chips and pellets but was improved (P < 0.01) on all diets by enzyme supplementation. A similar trend was observed for net energy of production (NEp), generally being higher (P < 0.01) on the maize-based diets than on diets containing cassava. Enzyme supplementation improved (P < 0.01) NEp. Heat production was highest (P < 0.01) on diets containing cassava pellets. In general, it may be possible to use cassava pellets in diets for broiler chickens at close to 50 % of the diet to reduce cost, and the nutritive value of such diets can be improved through supplementation with appropriate microbial enzymes.