DefinePK

Abstract

The use of cassava peel in rations can be increased by reducing cyanide acid levels so that it is not dangerous for ruminants. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nutrients with the optimum chemical composition and nutrient digestibility of cassava peels treated by soaking in calcium hydroxide or Ca(OH)2. In the first step, cassava peels were soaked in Ca(OH)2 using various dosages (0, 0.25, and 0.50%) and soaking time (1, 2, and 3h). The factorial 3×3 randomized block design with three replications was used to perform this investigation. The second stage was an in vitro investigation to find out the nutrients’ digestibility. The results showed that there was a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the crude fiber content and a significant increase (P<0.05) in the nitrogen-free extract (NFE) content of cassava peel with increasing soaking time from 1-3h. There was a significantly different interaction (P<0.05) between calcium hydroxide dose and soaking time on the digestibility of nutrients: dry matter, organic matter, NFE, crude protein and crude fiber. In conclusion, the best soaking time to reduce crude fiber and increase nitrogen-free extract content was 3 hours, and the best nutrients digestibility was found in the treatment combination of 0.50% betel lime and 2h soaking time. Keywords: Betel lime, Cassava peel, Chemical composition, Digestibility, HCN.