Research Article
Puran Bridgemohan, Ronell Brid
Abstract
The escalating cost of imported animal feed ingredients as sources of protein and energy is forcing many small Caribbean island farmers out of production. Some progress has been made in the cultivation and production moringa oliefera seeds [13.12t.ha-1], its potential use as an indigenous source of protein for animal feed, and as a potential replacement for soya-bean meal in Trinidad and Tobago. Proximate analysis has been conducted to evaluate the nutritive value and composition and the suitability of the seed as a local feed. The results indicated that the crude protein content varied between 23.1% and 42% for hulled and defatted seed, respectively. The potential oil cake [48.9% CP] yield was 6.42 t.ha-1. An amino acid profile and the caloric value of the processed feed were also conducted. The crop which is ecologically adapted to the humid tropics and to low or zero levels of farm inputs and management, makes it an attractive high protein supplement for improved and sustainable animal productivity