Application of FT-NIR spectroscopy for evaluation of feeds digestibility by analysis of feces chemical composition

Abstract

In this study, we demonstrated the possibility of rapid and non-destructive quantification of crude protein, fat, fiber and moisture content in pigs’ feces by Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy. The predictions of developed partial least-squares (PLS) regression calibration models do not exceed the error of used arbitrary method. The FT-NIR models demonstrate satisfactory correlation coefficients (R2 >0.81) and residual predictive deviation (RPD) values from 2.3 to 7.5, depending on measured parameter. Obtained results indicate the possibility of use FT-NIR spectroscopy as a simple tool for monitoring feed’s digestibility and allowing applying timely corrections to diets.

Keywords

• pigs
• feces
• feed digestibility
• infrared spectroscopy