Evaluation of the effect of soy protein isolate based milk replacer feeding on digestibility of nutrients and haematobiochemical parameters in cross bred calves

Abstract

A study was conducted in crossbred calves for a period of 90 days to evaluate the effect of soy protein isolate based milk replacer feeding on digestibility of nutrients and haematobiochemical parameters.Twelve,four-day-old crossbred calveswere selected from University Livestock Farm and Fodder Research and Development Scheme (ULF & FRDS), Mannuthy and were allotted to one of the two dietary treatments. The dietary treatments were T1 (Control) fed with whole milk and T2- fed with soy protein isolate based milk replacer (CP-22 per cent) and milk in the ratio 3:1.To all the experimental animals, calf starter (CP-23 per cent) and adlibitum green grass were offered and were fed according to ICAR (2013). Daily record of quantity of feed (calf starter and milk replacer) andgrass given and balance if any were recorded throughout the experimental period. A digestibility trial for five days duration was carried out towards the end of feeding trial by total collection method. The results revealed similar apparent digestibility of nutrients and haematobiochemical parameters for whole milk and milk replacer fed group.

Keywords

• whole milk
• soy based milk replacer
• digestibility
• haematological parameters