Preparation of low cost straw based densified complete feed blocks for crossbred heifers using dhanwantharam oil residue and tapioca starch waste*

Abstract

The study was carried out to prepare a cost effective straw based densified complete feedblock (DCFB) using dhanwantharam oil residue and tapioca starch waste replacing conventionalbingredients on nutrient basis. Three complete feed blocks T1 (straw based DCFB), T2 (DCFB containing 20 per cent dhanwantharam oil residue) and T3 (DCFB containing 20 per cent tapiocabstarch waste) were formulated according to ICAR (2013) standards. Dry matter content was similar for all the DCFB. Higher crude protein, crude fat and neutral detergent fibre values were recorded in T2 compared to T1 and T3. Higher crude fibre was observed in T3. The cost of production per kgbblock of T1, T2 and T3 were Rs.17.25, 13.89 and 16.42, respectively. Based on the present study, dhanwantharam oil residue and tapioca starch waste can be incorporated in DCFB at 20 per cent inclusion level replacing conventional costly feed ingredients on nutrient basis for the production of low cost DCFB for livestock feeding.