Feed manufacturer's perceptions on the use of heritage grains and exogenous enzymes in feed formulation

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the level of utilisation of small grains, perceptions towards the use of these grains in feed formulation as well as the benefits and challenges associated with their use in feed formulation. The levels of knowledge of antinutritional factors (ANFs) in small grains, ways of combating the identified ANFs and the use of feed enzymes in ameliorating the effects of these ANFs was also assessed. A survey was conducted in this study. Out of the sixteen feed companies listed by the Stockfeed Manufacturers Association of Zimbabwe, a total of ten (10) were interviewed. The collected data were analysed using IBM SPSS ver. 25 of 2017.  The data were analysed for descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were performed to test for possible associations between variables. Of the interviewed feed companies, only 25% reported that they use small grains in feed formulation. The respondents identified high cost, long distance in combination with high transportation cost, seasonal shortages and stockouts as well as quality inconsistencies from one batch or supplier to the other as the main challenges faced when sourcing small grains. All (100%) the respondents showed knowledge of the use of exogenous feed enzymes in livestock feeds. It can be concluded that small grains are lowly utilized by the feed companies in the country while use of feed enzymes is a common practice amongst them.